Drawing a snake can be a daunting task for any artist, but understanding the basics of how and why a snake moves can really help in creating a convincing representation. Contraction and release of muscles is the key to making a two dimensional snake look like a three-dimensional creature. To capture this look, break down the process into bite-sized chunks by first sketching out an elongated loop of the snake body, then drawing the head and adding details such as scales, features and colors.
Start by sketching the loop of the snake body. A good way to do this is to imagine the snake curling in shallow S-shaped curves and add small sections one after the other, with the narrowest points at the top and bottom of the “S”. When the body and movement of the snake is sketched, draw the head at the apex of the loop. Take care to ensure the position of the head is appropriate to the flow of the curves and that the neck is a smooth transition between the head and body.
Now add the details. Begin by lightly shading the entire body, which gives the snake a more three-dimensional look. Think of the shape of the body sections being like those of overlapping fish scales or overlapping leaves. Envision where these points would be and then lightly draw the ridges with a pencil. Then use an art brush to carefully refine the edges and give the snake a distinct, realistic look.
Next add eyes and pupil to the head. Draw the eyes with a small curved line and fill in the sides with a darker tone of color. Use a thin brush to put a small dot for the pupil. Give the eyes a slightly saggy look to give the snake a tired or resting glare. When done correctly, it will be almost impossible to not be drawn in by the snake’s stare.
Finally, choose a color for the snake. Greens, browns and blacks tend to be the most realistic for most species, but don’t be afraid to use tans, blues, purples and yellows to add a bit of flair. Once the color is determined, use a thin brush and slowly fill in the body with the chosen hue. Avoid being too precise with the color application as that will make the snake look too rigid and rigid snake snakes usually don’t have as much life to them as those that appear more natural.
Now its time to bring it all together. When shading and adding color, use the lightest and darkest tones at the most prominent points of the snake body to create a contrast. This will make the snake look more realistic and the curves will become a main part of its character.
When adding texture to the scales or snake body, vary the thickness and density of the lines. This will prevent the snake from looking too flat and instead will give it an overall more lifelike appearance. Finally, use a sharp pencil to bring out certain areas such as shadows, veins, bumps and creases as well as to add a little extra depth and life to the snake.
The last of step of finishing the snake involves making it come alive! Again, this starts with understanding how snakes move and the manner in which they coil around other bodies. Then use that knowledge when sketching and shading out the curves. When done right, the snake will look like it’s ready to move off the paper.
Now that your snake looks realistic its time to really give it depth and texture. Let your imagination run wild and use your pencil to add creases, bumps and other details to the body of the snake which will give it a personality and feeling of authenticity.
When it comes to adding color, use layers oflight and dark tones to bring out certain areas giving it more depth and character. And if you’re feeling adventurous, get even more creative by highlighting the eyes with yellow, orange or red for added drama.
Finally, refine the drawing with a few finishing touches. Make sure the whole thing is lined up properly, and make sure all parts of the snake look symmetrical. Don’t forget to use your finger to carefully smudge areas of the drawing, as this will help blend colors together and give your final piece a softer and more polished look.
Drawing a snake doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of practice and an understanding of the basics, you’ll soon be able to draw a realistic representation of the creature with ease and confidence. And with all these tips, you’ll soon be on your way to creating a slithery masterpiece!
Start by sketching the loop of the snake body. A good way to do this is to imagine the snake curling in shallow S-shaped curves and add small sections one after the other, with the narrowest points at the top and bottom of the “S”. When the body and movement of the snake is sketched, draw the head at the apex of the loop. Take care to ensure the position of the head is appropriate to the flow of the curves and that the neck is a smooth transition between the head and body.
Now add the details. Begin by lightly shading the entire body, which gives the snake a more three-dimensional look. Think of the shape of the body sections being like those of overlapping fish scales or overlapping leaves. Envision where these points would be and then lightly draw the ridges with a pencil. Then use an art brush to carefully refine the edges and give the snake a distinct, realistic look.
Next add eyes and pupil to the head. Draw the eyes with a small curved line and fill in the sides with a darker tone of color. Use a thin brush to put a small dot for the pupil. Give the eyes a slightly saggy look to give the snake a tired or resting glare. When done correctly, it will be almost impossible to not be drawn in by the snake’s stare.
Finally, choose a color for the snake. Greens, browns and blacks tend to be the most realistic for most species, but don’t be afraid to use tans, blues, purples and yellows to add a bit of flair. Once the color is determined, use a thin brush and slowly fill in the body with the chosen hue. Avoid being too precise with the color application as that will make the snake look too rigid and rigid snake snakes usually don’t have as much life to them as those that appear more natural.
Now its time to bring it all together. When shading and adding color, use the lightest and darkest tones at the most prominent points of the snake body to create a contrast. This will make the snake look more realistic and the curves will become a main part of its character.
When adding texture to the scales or snake body, vary the thickness and density of the lines. This will prevent the snake from looking too flat and instead will give it an overall more lifelike appearance. Finally, use a sharp pencil to bring out certain areas such as shadows, veins, bumps and creases as well as to add a little extra depth and life to the snake.
The last of step of finishing the snake involves making it come alive! Again, this starts with understanding how snakes move and the manner in which they coil around other bodies. Then use that knowledge when sketching and shading out the curves. When done right, the snake will look like it’s ready to move off the paper.
Now that your snake looks realistic its time to really give it depth and texture. Let your imagination run wild and use your pencil to add creases, bumps and other details to the body of the snake which will give it a personality and feeling of authenticity.
When it comes to adding color, use layers oflight and dark tones to bring out certain areas giving it more depth and character. And if you’re feeling adventurous, get even more creative by highlighting the eyes with yellow, orange or red for added drama.
Finally, refine the drawing with a few finishing touches. Make sure the whole thing is lined up properly, and make sure all parts of the snake look symmetrical. Don’t forget to use your finger to carefully smudge areas of the drawing, as this will help blend colors together and give your final piece a softer and more polished look.
Drawing a snake doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of practice and an understanding of the basics, you’ll soon be able to draw a realistic representation of the creature with ease and confidence. And with all these tips, you’ll soon be on your way to creating a slithery masterpiece!
