One of the simplest ways to learn how to draw is to copy a picture. It offers the advantage of being able to concentrate on the technique without having to force yourself to recall something from memory, as well as providing a point of reference with which to compare one's work. Start with the simple things and gradually work your way up to the more complex designs. To copy an image by hand, you can create a grid structure to superimpose on the drawing. Using this grid, proceed by copying one square centimeter of the original at a time. Eventually, you will get an accurate replica of the image.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Creating a Grid
Step 1. Choose a design to copy
This is the first thing to do; maybe you already have one in mind. If you are a beginner, it is a good idea to choose something simple. Find an image without much detail, with a clear shape. For example, a children's cartoon may be easier to draw because it should have shapes that are not too complex.
Step 2. Measure the dimensions of the drawing
To make a grid, you need to know the size of the original. This is to ensure that the final result is to scale. To do this, take a ruler, measure the length and width of the image, then write down the measurements. As an example, consider a photo measuring 6 by 8 inches.
Step 3. Decide the size of the copy
The size of the canvas on which you will draw depends on this. In our example, if the canvas is 15 by 20 cm, you have no other calculations to make. However, if you want a larger image, be sure to keep the same aspect ratio. This ensures that you copy the design correctly.
- The design has the same proportions if you get the same number by dividing the width by the length. For example, to make an image twice the size, the canvas used should be 30 by 40 cm. 15 divided by 20 is 0.75, as is 30 divided by 40.
- If you want to create a larger image, be sure to multiply the length and width by the same number to make sure you keep the same ratio. For example, to triple the size of the design, calculate 15 x 3 = 45 and 20 x 3 = 60. 45 x 60 is the size of the canvas you will need to use.
Step 4. Draw a grid on the reference image
This allows you to give structure to your hand drawing. If you'd rather not spoil the photo you are copying, scan and print it or use a copier. You can do this at home, if you have the necessary devices, or at a copy shop.
- Put a ruler over the image. Make a small mark on each inch. Then repeat the same operation below. Use the ruler to draw a series of straight lines between the top and bottom marks.
- Put the ruler on the left edge of the image and mark every inch. Do the same on the right side. Then, use the ruler to draw straight lines between the two marks.
- When finished, you should have made a 1cm by 1cm grid of squares above the image you want to copy.
Step 5. Create a grid on your design with squares of the appropriate size
Now you need to draw a grid on your canvas, following the same method. The squares must have dimensions proportionate to those of the canvas: if you want to double the size of the drawing, they must be 2 cm by 2 cm; if you want to triple it, 3cm by 3cm and so on.
- If you want to make 2 cm squares, make a mark at the top, bottom, right and left every 2 cm instead of every centimeter, then connect the marks. For 3 cm squares, make a mark every 3 cm.
- The surface of the grid should be roughly the same as that of the reference photo.
Part 2 of 3: Drawing the Image
Step 1. Write numbers and letters in the squares
You may find it helpful to mark numbers and letters along the columns and rows of the grid. This structure can help you understand which section of the drawing you are copying. Make sure you mark the numbers lightly so that you can easily erase them later.
- Write the numbers above and below the grid.
- Write the letters to the left and right of the grid.
- You can mentally identify sections based on the intersection of columns and rows. For example, imagine you are drawing in a square in column 3 and row B. You can identify that square as B3 or 3B.
Step 2. Copy the image square by square
You will make your design by going from one square to the next. For example, start at the top left corner, where you will find the A1 square. Just focus on the shapes and images you see in that box. Slowly copy them to the empty square on your grid.
- The image will likely be divided into basic shapes by the grid. This can make it easier to copy. For example, the corner of a cartoon character's ear can look like two semicircles. Focus only on the semicircles, without thinking about the other grid squares.
- Copy exactly what you see in the square. An advantage of drawing with a grid is that you will copy what you see instead of what you think you see.
Step 3. Gently erase the grid when done
Once you have filled in all the boxes, delete the grid, the numbers and the letters. Do it slowly and carefully. Don't risk deleting part of the design by mistake.
You can go over the ink drawing before erasing the grid. This way you will be sure not to ruin it
Part 3 of 3: Make sure the design is of quality
Step 1. Hold the pencil correctly
This is one way to make sure you are making an exact copy. Keep it in order to keep control of it. The closer your hand is to the tip, the more control you will have over the pencil.
However, if you want to make lighter strokes, move your hand higher. The closer you put it to the tip, the darker the strokes will be
Step 2. Look for simple shapes in each square of the grid
All images are made up of basic shapes. Almost everyone is more adept at drawing simple shapes than complex images. Try to think of the original drawing as a series of shapes, so that you can draw it better. For example, the corner of a cartoon character's mouth can be a triangle. Just try to draw a simple triangle so you can focus better.
Step 3. Pay attention to the quality of the strokes
In particular, consider the thickness of the lines. Make sure the lines you draw fit the image.
- Try to use thinner or thicker lines as needed. For example, you may notice that in some sections of the drawing the lines are thicker. Even in some shaded parts thick strokes may be more appropriate.
- Make sure you pay attention to the quality of the lines as you copy the design. Choose the appropriate thickness for the image.
Advice
- Be patient! If you want to copy an image well, it takes time, effort and experience. You may have a great natural talent, but you have to start somewhere.
- Try various types of drawing materials. You can use pens, pencils, charcoals and brushes. Each material has its own particularities and you may find that you are better off with one than with the others.
- Maintain the correct posture. You should move your arms freely and support them correctly to do all kinds of stretches.
