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How to Draw Figure Outline

How to Draw Figure Outlines

In this lesson I want to talk more about the figure outline. Earlier we discussed how to sketch out the human head, now lets make a body to go with it!

It’s the same idea as the head but with different shapes. Cross lines will help keep everything lined up. Now, this is where I put the disclaimer. If you really want to understand the figure outline, you first have to understand the human body. I’m not saying take an anatomy class, but it would help! (Maybe, find a book on the human body and use it as reference. Draw images from it to help you understand the human form in more depth).



This example shows the basic structure of how I put together a body. I’m leaving out muscle structure and only focusing on the shapes I have come to use over the years of my practice. I do know there are many different ways to put together a nice figure structure so feel free to use any method that is most comfortable for you.  Remember, practice makes you better so practice everyday! Once you understand the “stick figure” method, I’m sure you will be more confident to try different posses.

I would encourage you to go somewhere public to practice sketching people in the real world.  A park, bus stops or even at your job (only when you have down time, that is). Practice anywhere and everywhere you can, anytime you can.  Also, the example is here to help you as well. Draw it over and over until you can do it without looking at it. Then, take what you have learned and apply it to the everyday person. The more you draw and sketch from real life, the easier it will become to draw from your own thoughts and ideas. Good luck and Draw On!!


(If you found this helpful, leave me a comment and let me know. I want to help artist become better and this will let me know what content to include. If you have any questions, would like to talk more about today’s subject or would like to suggest other “how to” blogs/videos; feel free to contact me via email: DanielGilbreathFineArt@yahoo.com Also, subscribe to my website http://www.DanielGilbreath.com and stay up to date with new lessons and art work by me.)

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