Introduction
If you enjoy drawing, you know that hair can be a challenging element to get right. The good news is that with the right tips and tools, anyone can learn to draw beautiful hair. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide for drawing different types of hair, as well as showcase some popular hairstyles for inspiration.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this article is designed to give you the tools and techniques you need to improve your hair drawing skills.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
When it comes to drawing hair, there are three main styles to consider: curly, straight, and wavy. Here, we will provide a step-by-step approach for each style, as well as tips for creating texture and depth.
Curly Hair
Start by sketching the basic shape of the hair, keeping in mind the general direction of the curls. Use short, curved lines to create the shape of each individual curl. To add depth, vary the length and thickness of the lines. Then, go over the initial sketch with more defined lines, outlining the shape of the curls and their direction.
To create texture, add shading to the curls. Shade by cross-hatching, using lines that follow the curve of the curl. You can also use dots or small circles to create a stippled effect.
To add highlights, shade around the edges of the curls, and leave a white space in the center. This will give your curls a three-dimensional appearance.
Straight Hair
When drawing straight hair, start by sketching the basic shape of the hair. Use long, straight lines to create the flow and direction of the hair, and add longer, curving lines to create depth and texture.
To add more detail and texture, use cross-hatching to create shadow and highlight. To create highlights, use the shading technique of hatching. To create the illusion of shine, leave a portion of the hair unshaded
Wavy Hair
To draw wavy hair, start with the basic sketch of the hair. Use long, flowing lines to create the waves, and add short, curved lines to create the texture and depth of the hair. Then, go over the initial sketch with more defined lines, outlining the shape of the waves and their direction.
To create texture, use similar techniques as for curly hair. Cross-hatch for shading and draw highlights using hatch marks on the wavy hair.
Tools and Techniques
When it comes to drawing hair, different tools can be used, including pencils, charcoal and pens. Charcoal can be used to create depth and texture, while pens are great for creating sharp and bold lines. Here are some tips and tricks to achieve better hair drawing:
- Use the tip of your pencil for precise details on individual strands of hair.
- Blend different pencil tones with a blending stump to create a smooth gradient.
- Consider the direction of lighting and shadow when you draw hair.
- Use a kneaded eraser to create highlights and texture in hair.
Other expert techniques to try include layering and smudging, which can create the illusion of dimension and depth within the hair. Experiment with these techniques to find what works best for your style.
Inspirational Hairstyles
There are many hairstyles you can recreate in your drawings. Here are some popular styles to consider, along with tips for achieving the right look:
- Pixie Cut: To create the perfect pixie cut, use short, choppy lines and add a bit of texture
- Long Waves: Emphasize the length and waves of the hair with long, flowing lines and a lot of shading
- Braids: Create the intricate details of braids with lots of thin, curving lines that follow the shape of the braid
Hair Drawing Challenge
If you want to test your hair drawing skills, consider participating in a hair drawing challenge. Use online resources for reference photos or try experimenting and creating your own hair designs. Share your work on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Flickr for the world to see and appreciate.
Trying out different styles and techniques can help you find what works best for you.
The Importance of Hair in Portraits
When drawing a portrait, hair plays an important role in achieving a realistic and three-dimensional representation of the subject. Proper hair drawing is critical to capturing the essence of your subject’s personality. Here are some techniques to help you capture the unique texture and flow of hair in your portraits:
- Use a combination of hatch and cross-hatching shading techniques
- Pay attention to the flow, shape, and texture of the hair
- Consider the direction of lighting and shadows to achieve a 3D effect
Great artists who excelled in drawing hair in their portraits include Sir John Everett Millais, John Singer Sargent, and Gustav Klimt.
Conclusion
Drawing hair is one of the fundamental skills that every artist should master. With this step-by-step approach and inspiration, you can enhance your hair drawing skills and create stunning, detailed hair in your artwork. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional artist, practice, patience, and experimenting with techniques are the keys to mastering the art of drawing beautiful hair.