Sharing knowledge is an act of kindness! In this article, we’ll show you how to draw an owl using simple and illustrative step-by-step instructions. Our guide is designed for kids and beginners who want to learn the basics of drawing cute owls with personality. With just a few easy lines, you can create an adorable owl in no time!
Unleash Your Creativity: Drawing a Colorful Owl
When it comes to engaging kids in artistic activities, we believe in nurturing their creativity and self-expression. That’s why our how to draw an owl guide focuses on bold colors, paint, and brush techniques. Younger children can practice their fine motor skills and gain confidence with a paintbrush, while older kids can use our tips as a starting point to explore different colors and techniques.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video
Check out our step-by-step video guide on how to draw an owl. It’s a great visual aid to complement the instructions in this article.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before we begin, make sure you have the following supplies ready:
- White Cardstock
- Black Crayon, Chalk Pastel, or Oil Pastel
- Paint
Download the Step-by-Step Tutorial
If you want to follow along with the exact owl templates we’ll be using, you can download them by joining the Arty Crafty Kids club. Members can access the templates here.
Let’s Draw an Owl!
Start with a Free Flow Squiggle – Drawing the Owl’s Head
Begin at the top of your page and, in a smooth motion, draw a small loop (up, over, and down). Flow across the page and end with another loop. This will form the top of the owl’s head, with the loops representing its ears.
Complete the Owl’s Shape
Extend the line from the bottom of the first loop downwards, flowing across the page, and back up in a rounded shape to the bottom of the second loop. The shape you create should resemble a large urn or a full grocery bag.
Add Big Eyes and a Beak
Now it’s time to add the owl’s distinctive features. Draw two big, round eyes and a sharp beak.
Draw a Pair of Decorative Owl Wings – Get Creative!
Let’s give our owl some wings! Since it won’t be in flight, we can create the illusion of folded wings by drawing a curved line on each side of the owl’s body. Feel free to get creative with the wing designs. You can try rainbow stripes, zig zags, polka dots, or even rows of semi-circles to give your owl a realistic feathered look.
Evolve the Drawing with a Sitting Branch for the Owl
Once you have all the basic shapes in place, let your imagination take over! Think about where your owl is sitting. Is it perched on a branch or nestled in a hole in a tree trunk? What time of day is it? Consider adding seasonal elements like blossoms or color-changing leaves to enhance the scene.
Go Bold – Paint the Owl
This artwork is all about boldness and expression. We recommend using a dry brush to avoid diluting the paint, and don’t be afraid to apply it generously for a thick finish. Acrylic or oil paints work well with this technique.
Give the Owl Beautiful Bold Colors
Let your creativity shine through by using a mixture of bright colors. This time, we’re staying away from the traditional brown owl. Experiment with different color combinations and have fun!
Explore Painting Techniques
The colorful owl you’ve created serves as an excellent canvas for exploring various techniques. Try introducing some water to create a textured feel. Take note of the light and dark patches you’ve made, as they can add depth and texture to the artwork. You can also wash over areas with a secondary color to create a blend. The possibilities are endless!
Add an Autumnal Touch
If you’re going for an autumnal scene, have fun playing with the leaves, just as you did with the owl. Use a dry application of paint, dabbing it on, to create a thick, layered texture. Utilize color gradients to depict the changing colors of the leaves. Let your imagination guide you as you experiment with different techniques and paint applications.
Make the Owl Drawing Your Own!
For the finishing touches, you can add intricate details and patterns to your owl. Use your paintbrush in different ways, from dabbing to wet and dry applications. Create dots, squiggles, or any other patterns you like. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to expressing yourself!
The Flow Drawing: How to Draw an Owl is Complete
We can’t wait to see the amazing creations you come up with using our flow drawing technique! Feel free to post your artwork on social media and tag us. Your art brings us joy!
Flow Drawing is an innovative art technique that we’ve developed to help children (and even beginner adults) understand shapes and create illustrations in a more liberating way. By removing restrictions, flow drawing encourages children to fully engage in the moment and discover their natural flow. It’s not just about drawing a picture; it’s about creating a unique work of art that comes from the soul.
Benefits of Flow Drawing
Flow drawing offers numerous benefits for young artists:
- Explore simple shapes and how they combine to create larger forms.
- Discover your natural flow and rhythm through repetitive movements.
- Learn how to use different mediums in a fun and easy way.
- Build confidence in your creative abilities.
- Break free from perfection-seeking in art, providing an alternative to rigid “how to draw” guides.
- Bring mindfulness to the creative process and boost mental health.
- Foster a love for art and self-expression.
If you’re looking for more artistic inspiration, check out these other fun drawing tutorials:
- Paint Along Autumn Birch Trees: Tutorial Link
- How to Draw a Cat: Tutorial Link
- How to Draw a Poppy: Tutorial Link
Happy Crafting!
