Sitting Criss-Cross: An Invitation to Impress
There’s something undeniably special about seeing someone criss-cross their legs and rest their arms delicately on the bent joints. Whether you’re the one sitting comfortably or an onlooker, the image of criss-crossed legs is a stirring one. To capture this scene in pencil or paint is a tantalizing challenge, yet also perfectly achievable. Here’s how to draw someone sitting criss-cross.
1. Establish Your Starting Point
The best place to begin is with the individual’s feet, positioned either side and flat on the ground. You can start with your pencil and draw the shape of each foot, not worrying too much about symmetry. Once the feet have been drawn, you can sketch out the ankles and legs, as this is usually the focus of the pose. Using two curves for each leg and two more for the knees, you can quickly create the basic shape and position of the subject.
2. Consider Your Proportions
Next up is getting your proportions and angles correct. To do this accurately, think of the subject in cubes and squares. Measure the torso in relation to the waist and hips. Notice how, when a person sits criss-cross, their arms usually rest on their bent knees. How does this compare to the distance between their legs? Is the shape triangular, or more of a square? For a realistic drawing, careful observation of these details is essential.
3. Get Creative With Your Outline
Think carefully about the kind of poses that might look interesting, while challenging yourself to create a unique illustration. Does the subject’s chin tilt forward, in a confident manner? Or, perhaps their shoulders lean back, allowing their clasped hands to rest gracefully on their lap? Experimenting with a range of outlines gives you the opportunity to express the personality of the individual.
4. Work On the Details
Once the proportions have been worked out and the angles fleshed out, bring your drawing to life with the details. Shade in the contours, paying attention to slight variations of light and shade. Draw the pattern of their clothing, with the gentle folding of fabric and tucks. Finally, add facial features and hairstyles—allowing your pencil strokes to take on a life of their own.
5. Step Back, Marvel—and Clean Up
The best way to appreciate your work is to take a step back and look at the overall picture. Marvel at the magical curves, shadows, and textures you’ve created on the page. Even the slightest smudge or smear can ruin the completed piece, so take a few moments to erase any stray marks and add the final touches. Now, show the world your dazzling criss-cross art—and make someone dreams come true!
