Welcome to this step-by-step guide on how to draw a troll! In this article, we will explore the process of creating a detailed and unique troll character from scratch. Whether you are an aspiring artist or simply looking to have some fun, this tutorial will provide you with the necessary guidance to bring your troll to life on paper.
Materials Required
Before we dive into the drawing process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary materials at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Drawing paper or sketchbook
- Pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
- Eraser
- Fine-tipped pens or markers (optional)
- Colored pencils or markers (optional)
Now that we have the materials ready, let’s get started on our troll drawing!
Step 1: Basic Shape Guidelines
To begin, lightly sketch an oval shape in the center of your paper. This will serve as the troll’s head. Below the oval, draw another slightly larger oval for the troll’s body. These basic shapes will act as guidelines to help you maintain proportion as you proceed with the drawing.
Step 2: Facial Features
Now, it’s time to add the troll’s facial features. Start by drawing two large circular eyes within the upper part of the head oval. Place them slightly apart from each other. Next, draw a small triangular nose below the eyes, and a wide, grinning mouth beneath the nose. To create a more menacing expression, consider adding sharp, pointed teeth.
Step 3: Hair and Ears
Trolls are often depicted with wild and unkempt hair. To capture this characteristic, sketch a mass of messy hair on top of the troll’s head. Experiment with different shapes and textures to add personality to your troll. Next, draw a pair of large, pointed ears on each side of the head. These ears can be positioned slightly higher than the eyes for an exaggerated effect.
Step 4: Body and Limbs
Now, let’s move on to the troll’s body and limbs. Start by adding thickness and volume to the previously drawn body oval. Extend the outline of the body downwards, creating a rounded shape. Next, draw two thick arms extending from the sides of the body. Add muscular definition by lightly sketching lines along the arms. For the hands, use simple shapes such as rectangles for the palms and elongated ovals for the fingers. Lastly, draw two sturdy legs with curved lines, making sure they are proportionate to the body.
Step 5: Clothing and Accessories
Trolls are often depicted wearing tattered and rugged clothing. Use your imagination to design the troll’s outfit. Sketch torn sleeves, ragged pants, and mismatched boots. Add details like patches, stitches, or even belts and buckles for added interest. Additionally, you can give your troll accessories such as a necklace, bracelet, or even a weapon like a club or wooden staff.
Step 6: Refine and Add Details
Now that you have the basic structure of your troll, it’s time to refine the drawing and add more details. Take a closer look at each section of your troll and make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper proportions and symmetry. Once you are satisfied, start adding texture and additional elements to bring your troll to life. You can enhance the depth and dimension of your drawing by adding shading, wrinkles, and fur texture.
Step 7: Inking and Coloring (optional)
If you prefer a more finished look, you can outline your drawing with fine-tipped pens or markers. This will give your troll a clean and defined appearance. Wait until the ink is dry before carefully erasing any visible pencil lines. If you’d like, you can also add color to your drawing using colored pencils or markers. Experiment with different shades to give your troll a vibrant and eye-catching look.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to draw a troll from start to finish. By following these step-by-step instructions and letting your creativity roam free, you can create your very own unique troll character. Remember to practice regularly and experiment with different styles and techniques. Have fun and happy drawing!
