How To Draw Armor
Armour is a crucial piece to any war artist’s repertoire: intricate and fascinating, it’s a great way to show off your artistry and impress the rest of your circle. Overwhelmed? Don’t be: we’re here to show you the ropes! Grab a pen and paper, because we’re about to dive in.
Let’s start with the basics: you need to have a plan. Before you can even begin drawing your armor, you’ll need to figure out what style you want to go with, if any at all. Are you going old-school or something more modern? Do some research into both and decide which route you want to go.
Once you’ve figured out what style you’re going for, you’ll need to create the right measurements and shapes. Start by measuring out the width of the armor and breaking it down into smaller rectangles. The smaller they are, the easier it will be to draw and shape them into the finished product.
Next, move on to the details: focussing on the little pieces to bring the big picture together. Start with the major pieces like gauntlets, pauldrons and greaves, then work your way down to the smallest ones like scales and crests. Draw the details to scale and use a ruler for the angles and curves.
Now it’s time to add in the final touches: we’re talking rivets, clasps, buckles and straps. These will give your armor a more realistic look and create a great overall aesthetic. Get creative with these and use your imagination to deck out your armor!
Finally, it’s time to bring it all together: use the right tools to blend everything together and create a seamless finish. You could use coloured pencils, markers or even watercolour if you’re feeling particularly brave. Once you’re happy with the end result, move on to the shading and highlight any details to your heart’s content.
Colors and Materials
It’s time to pick out the perfect colour scheme for your armor: lighter shades will open up the drawing and create an attractive contrast, whilst darker tones will result in a softer atmosphere. Go for classic metallics like bronze, silver and gold for a more sophisticated look, or maybe douse your armor in bright hues for a more daring approach?
What about the material? Will your armor be made from leather, cloth or metal? Consider the weather and environment that your drawing is placed in, and then choose the perfect fabric for your project. Are you trying to convey power and strength? Choose an unbreakable and heavy material like steel or hardened leather, or maybe something lighter like cloth for a more dainty look?
Don’t stop there: refine your armor and make sure every detail is carefully looked at and perfected. Have a look at some examples and use the inspiration you acquire to finish the job to the highest of standards.
Enhancement Techniques
Put on your armour and make a statement: use any form of embellishment you wish to in order to do just that. Lace, beads or studs – whatever your armour desires, make sure you achieve it and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Pick the perfect accessories and get creative. Are you looking for a rugged, old-school feel? Try adding in some hardware and embellishments like buckles, straps and clasps. Perhaps you’re trying for a more futuristic edge? Add in some glitter, chains or gems and explore an electric blue colour palette.
Don’t forget to add on some padding and internal protection: not only will this make your armour look ultra realistic, it’ll also provide extra comfort and crucial protection too. Layer up and make sure your armor is finished to the highest of standards.
Uniqueness Matters
Armour-drawing shouldn’t just be about creating a functional design, it should be about artistry too. Let your stylistic preferences come alive and draw something that stands out from the crowd. What marks will you make?
Think about the culture and time period that your armour belongs to, then have some fun. Draw masks, horns, wings or crests to really push your artistry boundaries. Try and think outside the box and paint your canvas with an intriguing and imaginative narrative.
Do some research online and take a look at what other artists have created. Use them as inspiration and create something unique but flattering that reflects your taste and ideas. Add that touch of originality and make your armour stand apart from the rest.
Don’t Give Up
Your armour doesn’t have to be perfect the first time you draw it: it takes practice and patience to master your craft, so don’t get disheartened if your first attempt isn’t up to scratch!
Keep re-visiting your design and refine it as you go. Don’t be scared to experiment and try out different techniques until you reach the desired effect. When you feel like you’ve hit a roadblock, take a break from your drawing and come back when you’ve gathered up some fresh energy.
Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! Drawing your own armour is an exciting journey and it’s important to stay creative and motivated throughout. Don’t give up and with time and effort, you’ll be creating masterpieces you never thought possible. So go grab your supplies, it’s time to get drawing!
