Drawing Templates

Drawing templates are patterns that serve as a guide to follow.

You might notice that I refer to them throughout my site as outlines but that is not entirely correct.

As a matter of fact, drawing outlines are like a profile or the border of an object with no detail, as in the first wine glass here.

They look very boring and are sometimes unrecognizable as to what they represent.

On the other hand, it is contour lines that form the individual shape of an object whilst including basic details. However, they only show form and they do not indicate texture or color.

On almost all of the images I've included on my site, I've always put in a little bit of detail to show how to illustrate and progress.

So, I guess I should be calling my 'outlines' by their proper name which is 'contour lines' but I am not one for formalities!

In my mind, drawing templates are outlines that include a bit of detail.

To make sure I am covering all the bases, I have added the outlines here plus corresponding contour line drawings so that both of these together form a template to suit you.

Draw A Butterfly

A butterfly drawing template is very popular for beginner artists and crafters alike.

Everybody loves to draw butterflies because they are considered a symbol for so many different things.

We each have our own beliefs on what they represent.

These are 2 individual illustations so they are not exactly the same shape.

I used the butterfly image above to copy and create this example.

Sometimes I make up the pattern that I do on the wings and sometimes I use reference pictures for general guidance.

I draw and erase several times, until I achieve the look that I want.

A butterfly shape is easy to memorize so it's great for doodling and discovering new ideas.

Of course, you can design the pattern for the wings yourself to make it more interesting, plus it will be unique to you.

Flower Designs

You will notice when you copy that it's not always a replica of your reference picture. Don't get frustrated by that, providing your copy resembles the subject, simply carry on.

Have a look at the difference between my examples - no two are alike.

The subtle changes should not worry you, the main objective is to achieve a good likeness.

This flower drawing template was selected for its ultra-simple lines.

A lot of flower varieties are easy to convert into templates.

Once you have been drawing for a while you will be able to recognize what you are capable of and what represents a challenge -- that is part of the fun of being a hobby artist.

There are some beautiful reference pictures and photos of all types of flowers.

I usually browse through gardening books and magazines for inspiration and ideas.

Rabbit Outline

I set myself the task of forming the outline of a rabbit first because I think it helps me successfully complete the artwork.

Bunnies are popular because they are such a cute looking animal.

In my opinion, the rabbit outline had the highest degree of difficulty out of all the images on this page.

That should not deter you from trying to copy it though, it is good to test your skills by trying to draw anything and use that to measure how much you are capable of achieving.

In this example, notice how the application of some quick strokes has transformed the basic template.

Template For A Bird

Clearly, I am no expert artist but I did teach myself to draw by copying every single thing that appealed to me.

Trial and error pretty much sums up my early beginnings.

I created all of these drawing templates in my third year as a hobby artist.

This is an easy outline of a bird which makes great practice for beginner artists.

Only a few strokes are required to turn it into a simple bird illustration.

Now do a little test with yourself by grabbing a pencil and make a quick copy of the bird above and see what happens when you add a couple of details here and there, as in this example.

This test constitutes practice and it does not matter if you are not happy with your results, the fact is you will improve the next time you try.

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Practice Is Important

Use this outline of a shell for practicing. Observe and compare whether your lines match up with this one.

These are the types of exercises you need to do as steady practice. I am reluctant to harp but it is by copying simple outlines that ultimately helps you to progress.

I hope you learn a lot from these drawing templates because that is how I started and what I credit for giving me the confidence to continue.

It is only a matter of practicing until you are satisfied with the results.

Then you progress onto doing yet another outline of the same subject, in preparation to create a full sketch complete with a few extra details. You will produce a very decent drawing, I have every faith in you!

In hindsight, I should have practiced with these contour lines several times and I would've ended up with better drawing templates to show you. In most cases, these outlines were done on the first attempt.

Please, don't keep reading about how to draw, you have to get out your paper and pencils and start right now to really enjoy this adventure.

Want to know where to go next? See:

• More Outlines For Practice
• Free Lessons
• Supplies You Need
• Go from Drawing Templates back to see more Pencil Drawings