How to draw a cat from scratch? - briefly
To draw a cat from scratch, start by sketching a simple circle for the head and an oval for the body. Next, add triangles for the ears and rectangles for the legs, refining the details as you go along.
How to draw a cat from scratch? - in detail
Drawing a cat from scratch involves several steps, each crucial for capturing the feline's essence and charm. Begin by gathering your materials: paper, pencils (HB, 2B, and 4B), an eraser, and a sharpener.
First, observe a real cat or study photographs to familiarize yourself with their features. Cats have distinct characteristics such as pointed ears, almond-shaped eyes, and whiskers that frame their face. Understanding these details will help you create a more accurate and lifelike drawing.
Start by sketching the basic structure of the cat's body using light pencil strokes. This initial phase is known as blocking in. Draw an oval for the head, two circles for the body, and four simple shapes for the legs. The position and size of these shapes will determine the cat's pose. For instance, a sitting cat will have a larger body circle and shorter leg shapes compared to a standing or walking cat.
Next, refine the shape of the head by adding details such as the ears, eyes, and nose. Cats have tall, triangular ears that sit high on their heads. Their eyes are large and expressive, with a distinctive slit-like pupil. Sketch the whiskers starting from the sides of the nose and extending outwards. Remember that cats have retractable claws, so their paws should appear rounded and soft.
Once you're satisfied with the head and facial features, move on to the body. Cats are known for their slender and muscular frames. Draw the spine as a straight line connecting the head to the tail, then add the ribcage and hips. Ensure that the body is proportionate to the head; typically, a cat's body should be about 1.5 to 2 times longer than its head.
Now, define the legs by adding more details such as the paws, toes, and claws. Cats have five toes on their front paws and four on their back paws. The claws are retractable, so they should not be visible unless the cat is stretching or playing.
After completing the basic outline of your cat, it's time to add shading and textures. Use a 2B pencil for this stage. Observe where the light hits the cat's body and create highlights using the eraser or a lighter pencil stroke. The darker areas will require heavier pressure with your pencil. Pay close attention to the cat's fur pattern, especially if you are drawing a specific breed like a tabby or a Bengal.
Finally, add any final touches such as patterns on the fur, tiny hairs around the nose and ears, and any other details that bring your cat drawing to life. Stand back and admire your work; you've just drawn a cat from scratch!