Big Bird, the iconic yellow Muppet, is a beloved character known for his cheerful disposition and oversized physique. Learning to draw him is a fun and rewarding experience, regardless of your artistic skill level. This guide will walk you through a simple, step-by-step process to create your own Big Bird masterpiece. We'll cover everything from basic shapes to adding those essential details that bring him to life.
What Supplies Will I Need?
Before we begin, gather your art supplies. You’ll need:
- Paper: Use any drawing paper you prefer; thicker paper is better for erasing and layering.
- Pencil: A standard HB pencil is ideal for sketching.
- Eraser: A good quality eraser is crucial for correcting mistakes.
- Colored Pencils, Markers, or Crayons: Choose your preferred medium for coloring Big Bird's vibrant plumage. Yellow, orange, and black are essential.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing Big Bird
1. Drawing the Basic Shapes
Start by sketching a large oval for Big Bird's body. Then, add a smaller circle slightly overlapping the top of the oval for his head. Finally, draw two smaller ovals below the main body for his feet. Keep these shapes light; we'll refine them later.
2. Defining the Head and Beak
Within the head circle, draw a slightly curved line for Big Bird's beak. This line should start near the top of the circle and curve downwards to create the beak's shape. Add a smaller triangle at the tip for the beak's point. Then, draw two small circles for his eyes, positioned slightly below the top of the head circle and to either side of the beak.
3. Adding the Wings and Tail
From the sides of Big Bird's body oval, draw two slightly curved, teardrop-shaped wings. They should extend outwards and downwards. For the tail, draw a series of slightly overlapping curved lines extending from the bottom of the body oval. These lines should be longer and more feathery than the wings.
4. Details: Eyes, Feet, and Feathers
Now it's time to add the finer details. Inside each eye circle, draw a smaller circle for the pupil. Give each pupil a small, white dot of reflection. For the feet, add three curved lines to each oval, mimicking toes. You can also draw simple lines on the body and wings to indicate the feathers.
5. Refining the Outline
Using your eraser, carefully erase any unnecessary guidelines or overlapping lines from the previous steps. Refine the outlines of Big Bird’s body, head, beak, wings, and tail to create a smoother, more defined look.
6. Coloring Big Bird
Finally, the fun part! Use your chosen medium to color Big Bird. Fill in the body and head with yellow. Use a slightly darker shade of yellow or orange for the beak. Color the eyes black, leaving the small white reflection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I draw Big Bird's distinctive feathers?
Big Bird's feathers aren't individually drawn; instead, suggest them with short, slightly curved lines on his body, wings, and tail. The varying lengths and directions of these lines will help create the illusion of fluffy feathers.
What's the best way to get the proportions right?
Start with basic shapes. Accurately measuring the sizes of the circles and ovals relative to each other is key to achieving the right proportions. Use light pencil strokes initially, making adjustments as you go.
Can I draw Big Bird in different poses?
Absolutely! Once you've mastered the basic structure, try drawing him in various poses – walking, flapping his wings, or even waving. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to challenge your artistic skills.
What if my Big Bird doesn't look exactly like the real one?
That's perfectly fine! The most important thing is to have fun and experiment. Each Big Bird drawing will have its own unique charm. Don't be afraid to try again, and remember that practice makes perfect.
By following these steps and practicing regularly, you'll be able to create your own fantastic Big Bird drawings in no time! Remember to have fun and let your creativity shine.
