Drawing leaves: How to draw step by step – Doodle a leaf

Leaf Drawing Made Easy: Doodling 101

Would you like to learn how to draw leaves in a simple and easy way? Look no further! In this tutorial, we will guide you step-by-step through the process of doodling various types of leaves. Whether you want to decorate your bullet journal or add a touch of nature to your projects, this is the perfect learning forum for you!

Parts of a Leaf

Before we dive into doodling, let’s take a closer look at the different parts of a leaf. Understanding the anatomy of a leaf will help you create more realistic drawings. Here are the key components:

1. Stem: The stem provides support to the leaf, connecting it to the branch or plant.
2. Axil: The axil is the angle between the leaf and the stem, where they meet.
3. Leaf Base: The leaf base is the lowest edge of the leaf, connecting it to the petiole.
4. Petiole: The petiole is the stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem or branch.
5. Leaf Blade: Also known as the lamina, it is the flat and thin part of the leaf.
6. Leaf Lobe: Some leaves have sections called lobes, with distinct indentations and shapes.
7. Vein: Similar to veins in our bodies, leaf veins transport nutrients and water throughout the leaf.
8. Leaf Margin: The outline or edge of the leaf.
9. Venules: Smaller veins that branch out from the main veins.
10. Midrib: The central vein that runs from the petiole to the leaf tip, like a backbone.
11. Tip: The pointy end of the leaf, even if the leaf appears round.

Supplies for Doodling Leaves

Don’t worry about having fancy art supplies; you can start doodling leaves with whatever you have on hand. All you need is a monoline pen or a pencil. However, if you want to take your doodling to the next level, here are some recommended tools:

• Monoline Pen: A pen with a consistent line thickness, perfect for doodling.
• Pencil: A classic drawing tool that allows for shading and erasing.
• Sketching Paper: High-quality paper for creating your leaf doodles.
• Tracing Paper: Ideal for adding layers and making corrections in your drawings.
• Watercolor Notebook: If you want to add watercolor details, choose a notebook with bleed-proof pages.
• iPad & Procreate: For digital doodling, an iPad with the Procreate app is a great option.

Doodling Variations: Adding Personality to Your Leaves

Now that you have your supplies ready, let’s explore some ways to create variations in your leaf doodles. These techniques will make your leaves unique and prevent them from looking identical. Here are a few key variations to consider:

The Basic Shape

• Start by drawing a straight line to serve as the midrib of the leaf.
• From the bottom, draw a rounded shape and straighten the stroke to create the leaf tip.
• Mirror the line on the other side to complete the basic leaf shape.

Veining Variations

• Experiment with different vein patterns to achieve different looks for your leaves.
• Try equal separations between the veins or vary the spacing to create unique textures.
• Consider adding veins to one side of the leaf for a more balanced yet interesting look.

Angle Variation

• Add perspective and depth to your leaf doodles by using angled or slanted stems.
• Start with a slanted or curved stem and draw the leaf shape on each side.
• Make the second side slightly smaller to create a sense of perspective.

Leaf Shape Variation

• Explore different leaf shapes by modifying the width and proportions.
• Experiment with wider leaf bases or more oval shapes for a softer look.
• Embrace asymmetry by drawing uneven lines and avoiding perfect mirror images.

Doodling Examples

Now that you’ve learned the basics and variations, it’s time to have some fun with doodling leaves! Don’t worry about copying real botanical leaves precisely; let your imagination run wild. Here are some examples of leaves you can doodle:

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different shapes, sizes, and details. Remember, the beauty of doodling lies in its uniqueness and personal touch.

How to Draw a Simple Leaf

If you’re ready to take your leaf doodles to the next level and draw leaves inspired by nature, we have a simplified process for you. Let’s start with a few common leaf types:

Drawing a Ginkgo Leaf

The ginkgo leaf has a beautiful fan shape. Here’s how you can draw a simplified version:

1. Draw a vertical line and two dots on it, marking the mid and upper points.
2. Create a semi-circle between the two dots, rounding at the top.
3. Sketch the stem and add smaller lines around the edge for texture.

Drawing a Red Maple Leaf

The red maple leaf is known for its lobed shape. Follow these steps to draw a simplified version:

1. Draw a vertical line with horizontal lines intersecting it.
2. Connect the horizontal lines to create an upside-down triangle shape.
3. Add serrations to the edges of the triangle to resemble the lobes.
4. Remove any unnecessary guidelines and customize with venule texture.

Drawing an Ivy Leaf

Ivy leaves are often glossy and lobed. Here’s how you can draw a simplified version:

1. Start with a vertical line and add two diagonal lines branching out.
2. Create a rounded shape on each branch line.
3. Connect the rounded shapes with flowing lines to form the leaf.
4. Add details and texture, such as veins or color, as desired.

These are just a few examples, but feel free to explore other leaf shapes and varieties. With practice, you’ll be able to draw a wide range of leaves and add your own personal touch.

Conclusion

Doodling leaves is a fun and creative way to add natural elements to your artwork. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this step-by-step guide will help you master the art of drawing leaves. Remember to experiment with variations, embrace asymmetry, and let your imagination guide you. So grab your favorite pen or pencil, and start doodling away!