From the brave and beautiful Mulan comes a timeless story of courage, loyalty, and resilience that millions can identify with. Drawing the iconic heroine can be daunting for the novice artist, but with these tips and pointers you’ll be able to create your own masterpiece in no time. So, let’s get started!
Gather Inspiration and Reference Pictures
Before you pick up a pencil, gather all the inspiration and reference pictures you can. Look around online, or go to a library and grab some picture books. The more reference material you have, the better. Save pictures of how Mulan is portrayed in the movies, TV shows, and in fan art to serve as your inspiration. Then, choose the picture you feel most amped about, and start gathering all the info and materials to draw her.
Choose Your Favorite Technique and Materials
This is where your drawing takes shape, and it’s where it starts to become your own. Choose whichever technique and materials you are most comfortable with. It can be anything from pencils, pens, markers, and paint to digital tools like a tablet, Photoshop, and yes – even smartphone apps. Working with the tools, materials, and techniques you are most comfortable with will make it easier for you to draw Mulan, and your work is sure to shine through.
Plan Ahead and Sketch Out Ideas
Planning ahead will help you focus and think things through to create a more polished version of Mulan. Sketch out a few ideas and move them around feature-by-feature until you come up with something that looks just right. With practice and a bit of patience, you will be able to capture all the little details, such as her facial expressions, clothing, hair – and that iconic pose!
Develop Your Drawing With Color and Details
Once your sketch is complete, the real fun begins. Develop your drawing with color, light, and shadow. Aim to find the right balance between highlights and shadows, paying special attention to expressions and details. Show her delicacy, grace, and poise with the clean lines and bold colors you choose. Finally, add any accents, lettering, and decorations that evoke a certain feeling.
Little Tweaks Go a Long Way
Don’t be afraid to erase mistakes and make small adjustments until you are satisfied with the result. Compare your drawing with the reference pictures or even fan art for tweaks that can make your work look like a professional did it. Keep pushing to improve and before you know it your drawing of Mulan will be finished and ready to impress.
Be Original and Inspired
Throughout this drawing process, try to remain inspired and create something unique. Draw inspiration from the reference pictures, your own imagination, and the in-depth knowledge you have built up of Mulan from watching the classic story. Whatever you choose to draw, make sure it looks like it came from you.
Don’t Forget the Finishing Touch
The last touch is a personal message to your drawing. Whether it’s a quote, a favorite saying, or a message of your own composition, it will give your drawing that personal touch that will make it stand out. Congratulations, you are done!
Keep Practicing To Improve
Though Mulan is relatively easy to draw, don’t be discouraged if yours doesn’t look perfect right away. Drawing is a skill set, and like any other skill graphic art requires dedication and practice to master. Keep practicing and making small tweaks each time you draw. The more you invest time in refining your technique, the better your work will be.
Smile and Enjoy The Process
Most of all, enjoy the process – smile with each sketch, highlight, line and color. Drawing is a breath of relaxation and creativity all rolled into one decked with endless possibilities. So go on, have fun with it. Thanks for learning How To Draw Mulan, and don’t forget to share your masterpiece all across the globe.
