How to Draw a Family Guy Character
Learn how to draw a Family Guy character with this step-by-step drawing tutorial. Create your own unique character from the popular animated sitcom.

Materials You'll Need
- Pencil
- Paper
- Eraser
Welcome to this detailed, step-by-step guide on how to draw a family guy character, inspired by the iconic animated sitcom Family Guy. This show has captivated audiences with its sharp humor and distinct animation style, making its characters instantly recognizable and fun to recreate. Whether you are a devoted fan wanting to bring your favorite characters to life on paper or an aspiring artist looking to hone your cartoon drawing techniques, this tutorial offers a great opportunity to dive into the unique aesthetic of Family Guy. Drawing these characters allows you to explore the world of simplified yet expressive cartoon design, which can be both enjoyable and rewarding.
Learning how to draw a family guy character involves understanding the show's characteristic features: exaggerated facial expressions, clean line work, and bold shapes that emphasize each character's personality. This tutorial will guide you through the essential steps, from sketching basic shapes to refining details and adding finishing touches. While the style may appear simple at first glance, it requires a steady hand and attention to proportions and expressions to capture the essence of the characters accurately. Whether you are a beginner or have some drawing experience, this guide breaks down the process into manageable stages, helping you build confidence and develop your skills progressively.
By the end of this tutorial, you'll not only have a completed drawing but also a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind the Family Guy animation style. So, gather your favorite drawing tools, find a comfortable spot, and get ready to unleash your creativity. Remember, every artist starts with a single line, and with patience and practice, you'll soon master how to draw a family guy character that captures the fun and spirit of this beloved show. Let's get started on this artistic adventure together!
Materials
To get started, gather the following materials:
- Paper
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Fine-tipped markers or colored pencils (optional)
Step 1: Basic Shapes
Begin by lightly sketching the basic shapes that make up the character's head, body, and limbs. Most characters in Family Guy have rounded heads and oval-shaped bodies. You can start by drawing a large circle for the head and a smaller oval for the body. Then, add lines to indicate the position of the limbs.
Step 2: Facial Features
Once you have the basic shapes in place, it's time to add the character's facial features. Family Guy characters are known for their exaggerated features, so have fun with it! Start by sketching the eyes, which are typically large and expressive. Then, add the eyebrows, nose, and mouth. Pay attention to the character's unique traits and try to capture their likeness as best as you can.
Step 3: Hair and Ears
Next, add the character's hair and ears. Family Guy characters often have distinct hairstyles, so take your time to recreate the unique style of your chosen character. Use curved lines for the hair and add some details to make it more realistic. For the ears, draw curved shapes on either side of the character's head.
Step 4: Clothing and Accessories
Family Guy characters are often depicted wearing different outfits and accessories. Use your creativity to come up with a unique look for your character. Whether it's a plain T-shirt, a costume, or a specific accessory, add these details to make your character stand out.
Step 5: Refine the Outline
Now that you have the basic features in place, it's time to refine the outline of your character. Use a darker pencil or a fine-tipped marker to go over the lines you want to keep. Pay attention to the proportions and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your character looks balanced and proportionate.
Step 6: Add Color (Optional)
If you would like to add color to your drawing, now is the time to do so. Use colored pencils, markers, or any other coloring tools you prefer. Study the colors used in the show and try to match them as closely as possible. Alternatively, you can also experiment with your own color choices to give your character a unique twist.
Step 7: Shading and Highlights (Optional)
To add depth and dimension to your drawing, you can incorporate shading and highlights. Begin by identifying a light source in your drawing and imagine where the shadows would fall. Use hatching or cross-hatching techniques with your pencil or markers to create the desired shading effect. Add highlights to areas that would catch the light, such as the forehead, nose, and cheeks.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing your Family Guy character drawing! By following these step-by-step instructions, you have created your very own unique character from the beloved animated sitcom. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. With practice, you'll be able to draw even more characters from the show and eventually create your own original designs. Keep honing your skills, and happy drawing!
Fun Facts About Family Guy Character
- Family Guy was created by Seth MacFarlane, who also voices several main characters including Peter Griffin.
- The character designs in Family Guy are inspired by classic cartoons but feature a unique, simplified style.
- Peter Griffin's voice is based on a security guard Seth MacFarlane met while attending the Rhode Island School of Design.
- Family Guy was initially canceled twice before becoming a long-running hit due to strong DVD sales and reruns.
- The show often features cutaway gags that are unrelated to the main plot, a signature style that sets it apart.
- Stewie Griffin, the baby character, is known for his British accent, which was inspired by actor Rex Harrison.
- Family Guy has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Voice-Over Performance.
- The show's animation is produced by Rough Draft Studios, which also works on other popular animated series.
Suggestions for Scenes and Settings for Family Guy Character Drawings
- Peter Griffin at the Drunken Clam, holding a beer and telling a joke.
- Stewie plotting his next evil scheme in his high-tech baby room.
- Brian lounging on the couch, reading a book with a skeptical expression.
- Lois cooking in the kitchen, wearing her classic green apron and smiling warmly.
- Chris trying to impress a girl at school, nervously holding a bouquet of flowers.
- Meg standing awkwardly at a teenage party, with other kids ignoring her.
- Quagmire at the airport, dressed as a pilot with his signature smirk.
- Cleveland leisurely fishing by the lake with a relaxed and happy demeanor.
- Joe Swanson in his wheelchair, showing off his strength at the gym.
- Family Guy characters having a chaotic backyard barbecue, featuring exaggerated expressions and humorous interactions.