How to draw curly hair on paper

Curly hair can be a challenge to draw, as it requires capturing the unique texture and movement that sets it apart from straight or wavy hair. However, with the right techniques and a little practice, you can create realistic and stunning representations of hair on paper. In this article, we will guide you through the process, step by step.

1. Understanding the Structure
Before you start drawing, it’s important to understand the basic structure of curly hair. Curly hair often has tighter, sculptural curls that interlock with one another. It tends to form corkscrew-like shapes or clusters of curls. Remember this as you begin your drawing.

2. Sketching the Outline
Begin by lightly sketching the general outline of the head to establish the direction and volume of the hair. Keep in mind that curly hair typically has more volume, so make sure to account for this in your drawing. While sketching, imagine the curls falling and bouncing in different directions.

3. Creating the Base Shape
To create the base shape of curly hair, draw curved lines that follow the contours of the head. Remember to vary the thickness and direction of the lines to mimic the natural flow of curls. It’s also helpful to visualize the hair as a series of overlapping masses to capture the layered look of curly hair.

4. Defining the Individual Curls
Once you have the base shape, define the individual curls by drawing small, tight spirals. Pay attention to the direction and size of each curl, as this will give your drawing a more realistic appearance. Avoid making the curls too uniform, as natural curly hair has a lot of variation.

5. Adding Depth and Texture
To achieve the desired depth and texture, use shading techniques. Start by identifying the primary light source and let that guide your shading decisions. For areas exposed to direct light, add highlights and keep them relatively smooth. In contrast, shade the areas that are in shadow or tucked beneath other curls to add depth and dimension.

6. Enhancing the Texture
Curly hair has a unique texture that differentiates it from other hair types. To make your drawing more authentic, add texture by using short, quick strokes of the pencil to mimic the appearance of individual strands of hair within each curl.

7. Refining and Detailing
Once you’ve completed the initial shading and texture, take a step back and assess your drawing. Look for areas that need refinement, such as uneven curl sizes or the need for additional shading to add depth. Pay attention to the overall balance and ensure that the hair looks natural and flowing.

8. Finishing Touches
To finalize your drawing, clean up any stray lines or smudges and give the hair a final look. Adjust the shading where needed, add any necessary highlights for more dimension, and make any final touches to ensure the drawing captures the essence of curly hair.

Remember, drawing curly hair takes practice and observation. Study reference images of people with curly hair to develop a better understanding of the unique qualities that make it distinct. With time and patience, you’ll be able to create stunning drawings of curly hair that capture its beauty and intricacy on paper.