Hair can be a challenging subject to master, but it can also be a source of enjoyment and creativity. In this tutorial, I will share some valuable tips that will make drawing hair less daunting and more pleasurable.

Paying Attention to the Origin

Let’s start at the very beginning: the scalp. The hairline, where hair meets the bare skin around the forehead and base of the neck, plays a crucial role in depicting the overall shape of a person’s face. Hairlines come in various shapes and heights, unique to each individual. Take some time to observe real-life examples and appreciate the diversity.

It’s important to remember that hair doesn’t simply sit on top of the head; it grows from it. Each strand emerges from the scalp at an angle perpendicular to its location. This creates volume and interesting twists before gravity, styling, or other factors come into play.

Observe how the hair maintains its natural angle before being directed differently. The undercut hairstyle makes this particularly evident. Even with afros, there is more complexity at play than meets the eye.

Shape and Weight

Drawing hair as individual strands can be counterproductive. Instead, depict it as three-dimensional shapes or well-defined chunks. Hair tends to fall in larger shapes, and keeping this in mind while drawing will yield better results.

Shading plays a significant role in capturing the essence of hair. When light illuminates these grouped strands, it highlights the shape of the cluster rather than individual strands. Texture is achieved through subtle details.

Numerous factors influence the shape of hair. Aside from origin, gravity, styling, and the hair’s texture can also affect its appearance.

Always consider the direction in which the hair is flowing. This knowledge will help you create shapes that feel natural and harmonious.

Ringlets, for example, require extra attention since their shape arises from the hair twisting around itself.

The weight of hair can also influence its shape. Short or thin hair may have more volume on top due to the absence of weight pulling it down. As hair becomes thicker and longer, it may appear more bottom-heavy.

Shorter strands often curve away from the main body because they lack the length necessary for gravity or styling to redirect them.

Remember, hair is soft. When describing it, use soft and thin lines that suit the medium you are working with.

Curly hair, while adhering to shapes, is also influenced by its volume and texture. It has a fluffy texture and is less influenced by gravity.

When rendering the texture of curly hair, vary your lines accordingly. Since hair is organic, avoid drawing a series of identical semi-circles.

Hair in Action

Hair can also serve as a powerful storytelling tool. Aside from style, it can convey movement, lightness, and flexibility. It can even evoke invisible elements such as wind, moisture, or the absence of gravity.

Always bear in mind the shape of the hair and the forces that influence it. Consider where the strands originate, where they are heading, and what pulls them in a particular direction. Additionally, keep in mind the inherent texture, volume, and weight of the hair.

Drawing hair well requires practice. I recommend studying photos or observing different hairstyles in real life. Break down the shapes and analyze the direction of the strands, as well as how they contribute to texture and volume. I hope this tutorial has provided you with valuable insights and enhanced your ability to draw hair more effectively.

Thank you for reading!