Step One: Choose The Right Model
First, it’s important for aspiring artists to decide what kind of model they would like to draw. Different models have different shapes and textures, so it’s important that you select a model that will best fit your artistic style. If you plan on using pencils or paints to draw a model, consider looking for an object with minimal details; if you plan on using charcoal or charcoal pencils, look for a model with plenty of creases and curves.
Step Two: Prepare the Canvas
Once you’ve chosen the right model, it’s time to prepare the canvas. To begin, gather all of your materials—paper, pencils, erasers, brushes, etc—and spread them out in your workspace. Pick a larger canvas, if you plan on working with a landscape model. Then, wait for the model to settle down, tiling the canvas if necessary. If you’re drawing a portrait, feel free to use any kind of paper or canvas.
Step Three: Take It Slow
Before attempting to draw a model, it’s important to take it slow. Don’t be in such a rush to draw that you miss out on capturing subtle details. Take several breaks in between to evaluate your drawing’s progress, and consult reference materials if need be. When it comes to drawing a model, it’s not about speed; it’s about taking your time to get it done right.
Step Four: Add Details
Once all the lines and shapes have been sketched out, it’s time to add the details. For a painting, this might involve adding color and blending until the model looks just right. If you’re using pencils, use different tones and hues to give your drawing more depth and dimension. Small embellishments, like the addition of freckles or wrinkles, can also give your drawing a more lifelike appearance.
Step Five: Area of Focus
When you’re finished drawing the model, step back and take a look at what you’ve done. If it looks off-center or imbalanced in some way, then consider fixing it by shifting the center of focus. This can be done by adding or moving around elements or by re-evaluating the layout. If you find that everything looks alright, then congratulations—you’ve successfully drawn a model.
Step Six: Have Fun with It
At the end of the day, art is all about having fun. So don’t be afraid to try out different styles and techniques. If you plan on using watercolors, try mixing colors to create unique hues and shades. If you use charcoal pencils, experiment with smudging and blending. Have fun with the process and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—sometimes those mistakes lead to some of the most interesting pieces.
Step Seven: Refine
Once you’ve finished the main drawing, take some time to refine it. Go over the drawing with a fine-toothed comb and look for small details that could be improved. If the overall balance of the drawing seems off, try adding a subtle secondary object to shift its center of focus. Finishing touches, like erasing smudges and smoothing jagged lines, can make all the difference in the final result.
Step Eight: Add Shadows
Adding shadows to the drawing is a great way to give it more visual interest. Start by sketching in the shapes of the shadows, then carefully blend or diffuse the edges. This will give the drawing a softer look and add depth to the overall composition. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to create a more complex lighting situation by adding multiple light sources.
Step Nine: Analyze the Results
When you’ve completed the drawing, step back and take a hard look at it. Make sure that the color palettes are balanced and the elements are proportioned correctly. If not, take some time to adjust the colors, shapes and values accordingly. Doing so can make the difference between an average drawing and a masterpiece.
Step Ten: Frame the Drawing
Finally, don’t forget to frame or display your masterpiece. Investing in a quality frame will draw attention to the drawing and provide it with the protection it needs from the elements. When you’re done, you can place your framed drawing wherever you want and admire your work of art. After all, you did just learn how to draw a model—not an easy task.
