I’ve observed that there are two particular areas in life where many individuals tend to underestimate their abilities: drawing and dancing. As we grow older, we start to question our talents in these domains and eventually abandon them. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Surprisingly, you can create amazing drawings using just a few basic shapes and lines. Today, let’s explore six simple techniques to draw a Christmas tree that require absolutely no artistic skills. Even young children can have fun making these different trees and using them to embellish cards, gift tags, and more. Grab a couple of markers, preferably green and brown, and join me on this creative journey. I promise it’s much easier than you think!
1. Triple Triangles
This technique yields one of the most traditional-looking pine trees, and all you need to do is draw triangles. Stack three triangles on top of each other to form the body of the tree.
To vary the shape and appearance of the tree, you can choose to overlap the triangles more or less, as demonstrated in the examples below. For a realistic look, each triangle should be slightly larger than the one above it.
Color in the triangles and add a small brown rectangle for the trunk. If you want to decorate your Christmas tree, feel free to add a star on top, garland, ornaments, or anything else you desire.
2. Zig Zag Tree
This next style is a bit more abstract. Instead of a solid, colored-in shape, this tree is created by drawing a line that zig-zags back and forth, increasing in width from top to bottom. Start at the top and make a small sideways “v.” Then, go back in the opposite direction and make another. Repeat this zig-zag pattern, letting each row be slightly longer than the previous one.
When you’re satisfied with the size of your tree, complete it by adding a brown rectangle at the bottom for the trunk.
3. Modern Curves
Similar to the previous tree, this technique also creates a suggestive tree shape rather than a solid image. Start at the top and draw a curved line resembling a rounded sideways “v.” Unlike before, avoid sharp points and lift the marker before continuing. Next, create the same shape, but slightly larger, below the first one.
Continue this pattern until you have 4-5 rows of curved lines, each one larger than the previous. This will give the impression of a triangle. For the trunk, draw a rectangle that is slightly angled on top to match the shape of the lines.
4. Lots of Lines
This tree couldn’t be easier! Take a fine-tip green marker and draw a series of horizontal lines, starting short and gradually getting longer as you move down the paper. Allow some lines to overlap and don’t worry about perfect alignment. Real trees are imperfect, so yours can be too!
Once you have a set of lines resembling a triangle, draw a vertical brown line that goes through them all, extending down past the bottom for the trunk.
5. Scalloped Layers
To create this festive tree, start by drawing an upside-down “v” shape with three small bumps across the bottom. Then, for the next layer, draw a line with four bumps/scallops. Continue moving down the tree, creating scalloped layers that increase in size each time.
I like to color in this tree with a lighter green than the outline, allowing the scalloped lines to stand out. A brown rectangle at the bottom serves as a great trunk. Like the first tree, you can “decorate” this one by drawing a topper and ornaments if desired.
6. Negative Space Designs
This is probably my favorite way to draw a Christmas tree. It utilizes the concept of negative space, which means using the areas without color to create visually interesting designs. To create this tree, start with a green triangle. Then, add any pattern you like in white. There are several ways to achieve this effect. I created my illustrations on the iPad Pro with the Apple Pencil using the Procreate app. This allows me to draw with the eraser tool. So, I turned on the eraser and created the designs by removing the green in the areas where I wanted my pattern to be. If you’re using real markers and paper, you can add the detailing with a white gel pen, or you can sketch the tree with a pencil first, marking where the design will be. Then, color all parts of the triangle green except for the areas that should remain white.
Regardless of the method you choose, these trees are both fabulous and enjoyable! All they need is a trunk, and they’re ready to embellish cards, gifts, home decor, or anything else you have in mind for the holidays. I opted for a triangle trunk, but you can use any shape you prefer.
See? I told you these were easy! If you can draw triangles, lines, and rectangles, you can create any of these six tree styles. Which one is your favorite way to draw a Christmas tree? Remember to save this post for future reference so you can come back and practice or share it with a friend.
If you enjoy Christmas doodles, give these a try:
Mid Century Modern Ornaments
Christmas Gnome
Also, don’t forget to check out my other holiday project tutorials!
DIY Ugly Sweater
DIY Christmas Gnomes
Personalized Ornaments
