How to Draw a Drum: A Step-By-Step Guide
Drums are among the most rhythmic and expressive instruments out there. From the gentle pulsing of a bongos to the thundering beat of a heavy drum kit, drums are a huge part of music and they can be a huge part of fun when drawing. That’s why this guide will take you through the essential steps necessary to draw a realistic looking Drum.
When you’re finished, you’ll have a beautiful drawing of a drum that you can use for any art project or just admire for its detail and accuracy.
Step 1: Start with the Shape
The first step of creating an accurate drawing of a drum is to find a good shape. Start by lightly sketching a circle in the middle of your paper. It doesn’t have to be perfect — it just needs to be the basis for the shape of the drum.
Next, draw the drum’s frame by sketching out two evenly spaced vertical lines, extending from the top of the drum to the base. To make the lines look more realistic, give them some curves. Then draw a semicircle along the top rim of the drum, and sketch the open section at the end.
Step 2: Add Details
The next step is to add the details, like the hand holds and the drum head.
Start by lightly drawing two small circles on either side of the “open end” of the drum. These are the handles. Then draw the drum head by sketching a curved line around the middle of the drum. This line should be slightly thicker than the frame, to give the head more definition.
Step 3: Mark the Drum Skin
The skin of a drum is the most important part. It gives the drum its sound, and it’s also the most detailed part of the drawing.
Start by drawing a series of curved lines near the edge of the drum. These lines should be evenly spaced and slightly curved. Don’t worry if they don’t come out perfect — this is just a guide.
Next, draw two smaller circles near the end of each line (these are the tuning lugs). Then draw a thicker curved line around the edge of the drum. This will be the drum skin.
Step 4: Final Touches
The final step is to add the finishing touches to your drawing. Start by adding some shadows and highlights beneath the drum skin for added depth and realism. Use a light, curved stroke to create shadows and a darker, straight stroke to create highlights.
You can also draw some small details in the lugs and on the frame of the drum to make it look more realistic. Just remember, the more detail you add, the more realistic your drawing will look.
Start Creating!
Now you have all the steps to draw an accurate drum. All you have to do is practice! Get out your paper and start sketching — the more time you put into it, the more realistic your drummer will look.
