How to Draw a Fleur-de-Lis
Drawing a Fleur-de-Lis has never been easier with the right directions. Whether you’re a professional artist or a lowly doodler, this simple step-by-step guide can help you create a beautiful, intricate design in no time. These instructions will provide the scaffolding necessary to make a splendid Fleur-de-Lis masterpiece.
Gather Your Supplies
The supplies for this project are quite simple. You’ll need a sheet of paper or poster board, a writing implement such as a pencil or pen, a ruler or other straight edge, and some preferably light-colored colored pencils or markers.
Create the Outline
Draw a long, thin triangle on the top of your work surface with a ruler or other straight edge. This triangle will form the top of your Fleur-de-Lis. Next, create a curved line at the base of the triangle – reminiscent of a dripping candle wax – and then draw three small, outward pointing triangles (or petals) at the base of the curve. This step may be easier if you use the straight edge to measure out the heights of each triangle.
Add the Details
The fun part starts here. With your colored pencils of choice, begin to add details to the Fleur-de-Lis. On the triangle portion of the Fleur-de-Lis, draw a single line that arcs across the width and shorten the base of the triangle. Then, begin to draw small arcs inside each of the petals – these should be detailed, but not overly so. Finally, draw a series of small lines on the base of the Fleur-de-Lis – these should look like dashes, not crescents.
Complete the Design
For a final touch, draw a few short, thin lines inside the Fleur-de-Lis itself. This should give the design a feeling of depth and subtlety. Additionally, draw a few light, curved lines at the top of the Fleur-de-Lis to give the impression of a fleck of light or sparkle – like a diamond in the night sky.
Compare to a Template
As the last step, find an example of a Fleur-de-Lis and compare the design to your own. Make necessary adjustments, such as making the petals slightly more defined or making the triangle slightly narrower. If you’re not happy with the design, don’t be discouraged. Try it a few times, and soon enough you’ll have created a perfect Fleur-de-Lis of your own.
Add Color and Shading
To take your design to the next level, add color and shading. To do this, choose one or two colors and use them to fill in the design. For example, if you’re using red and blue, use the red for the triangle and the blue for the petals. Then, to add shading, use the same two colors but in a darker shade. You can also apply a light shadow just below the petals to give the illusion that the Fleur-de-Lis is standing off the page.
Apply the Finishing Touches
To complete your Fleur-de-Lis, add more details. To do this, choose a lighter shade of your chosen colors and use them to highlight edges and add definition and texture to the design. Additionally, you can use white to create a “sparkle” effect. Finally, be sure to sign your work with a flourish – this will make your Fleur-de-Lis look even more elegant.
Finish the Project
Now that you’ve drawn a beautiful, intricate Fleur-de-Lis, you can proudly display your masterpiece. Whether it’s framed on a wall, or hung as a poster, your Fleur-de-Lis will be a wonderful addition to any space. And while it may have taken some time and effort, the end result is sure to be worth it!
