Drawing hairstyles can be a fun and creative way to express oneself. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, learning how to draw various hairstyles can be challenging but rewarding. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of drawing hairstyles and provide useful tips and techniques to help you get started.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that drawing hairstyles is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The type of hairstyle you will draw will depend on a variety of factors, including the character’s gender, age, and personality. You’ll need to consider the hair length, texture, thickness, and style to create a hairstyle that suits the character.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Draw a Hairstyle
Step 1: Sketch the Head and Jawline
To begin, start by drawing a rough sketch of the head and the jawline. Keep in mind the shape of the head will determine the hairstyle, so it’s essential to get a good idea of this from the start.
Step 2: Decide on the Length and Style of the Hair
Next, decide on the length and style of the hair you want to draw. This will depend on the character you’re drawing and the personality you want to convey. Some of the popular hairstyle choices include straight, curly, wavy, and bob hairstyles.
Step 3: Start Drawing the Hair
Once you have decided on the length and style of the hair, start drawing the hair from the top of the head. Use light strokes to start, and remember to keep in mind the direction of the hair strands. Hair that is flowing in a particular direction will require different strokes than hair that is sticking up or flowing in a different direction.
Step 4: Add Volume and Texture to the Hair
To add volume, use crosshatching and hatching techniques. This will help to create the illusion of hair strands. Use a variety of thicknesses of lines to create the illusion of different thicknesses of hair strands. To add texture to the hair, use shading techniques to create the illusion of depth and highlights.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once you have drawn the hair to your satisfaction, add the finishing touches. These could be highlights or a few stray hairs that are not in place. You can also add accessories to the hair, such as clips, ribbons, or headbands.
Tips and Techniques for Drawing Hairstyles
Here are some helpful tips and techniques to make drawing hairstyles easier:
1. Reference images
Before starting, find some reference images to use as inspiration. This will help to give you an idea of where to start and the direction to follow.
2. Observe real-life hairstyles
Look at real-life people with different hairstyles and lengths to get a better idea of different hair textures, lengths, and styles. This will help you with the accuracy of the hair drawing.
3. Add Layers
When drawing long hair, consider adding layers to create an illustration that is more interesting visually. Layers give hair more motion and dynamic movement, making it appear more realistic.
4. Practice Hair Textures and Shading
Get some sample sheets and practice drawing different hair textures and hair strands. This will help you to master the technique of hair shading and hairs textures, which is essential for creating realistic hairstyles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I make the hair look real?
To make hair look real, focus on the texture, direction, and thickness of the hair strands. Use hatching, cross-hatching, and shading techniques to create the illusion of depth and highlights. Take some drawing classes that focus on realism, and practice daily to become more proficient in it.
2. Can I draw a hairstyle using digital tools?
Yes, you can draw a hairstyle using digital tools like a graphics tablet and digital painting software. Just like traditional techniques, digital tools offer a wide range of brushes and tools that will make it easier to create various hair textures.
3. Should I draw the hair first or the face first?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some people like to draw the hair first, while others prefer to draw the face first. However, it’s generally easier to work from the top down, meaning the face and head first before venturing into the hair.
4. Can I draw realistic and unrealistic hairstyles?
Absolutely! There’s no reason not to experiment with varying hairstyles; rather, it is encouraged to create something more unique. Don’t be afraid to try different styles, textures, and colors, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Drawing hairstyles is a creative expression of the artist, and there are no limits.
Conclusion
Drawing hairstyles is a beautiful art form that involves lots of patience, creativity, and technical skill. By following the steps and helpful tips outlined in this article, you’ll be better equipped to draw a range of unique and realistic hairstyles. Remember to take time and experiment, and don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the process. Happy drawing!
