One of the best ways to learn to draw is by looking at the things you want to draw. Learning to draw wildlife, whether you attempt animals or other elements in nature, can be challenging. There are a number of how-to art books on the market that can help teach you the basics of drawing art. If you want to learn to draw animals and plants, a trip to the library or a bookstore might be just what you need to get started.
Instructions
1. Choose a simple drawing from a basic how-to book on drawing wildlife, which includes animals and plants. More advanced artists can attempt wildlife in a complex natural setting, but when you start out, consider sketching a bird, a rabbit, or maybe a plant or tree. A profile bird is an easy beginner's project.
2. Sketch an outline of your wildlife subject using a soft pencil (3B or 4B). Keep a gum eraser nearby. Follow the guidelines in your how-to book. Draw and erase until you have a rough outline to work with. Do your first pass on the outline in light lines. When you're satisfied with the overall shape of the subject, go over the lines to deepen them.
3. Add the details of your subject one line at a time. If you're drawing a bird, sketch the shape of the feathers, then use light side-to-side strokes to bring out the feathers. Each layer of pencil you put on the outline should bring out more shading and texture. Besides the instructions in the wildlife drawing book, consider adding your own shading---experiment with cross-hatching to develop feathers and fur. Cross-hatching (using diagonal strokes of your pencil in different directions) is an excellent way to fill out your wildlife sketch.
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