Anime, a popular style of animation originating from Japan, has gained a massive following globally. One of the most distinctive features of anime characters is their expressive eyes. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at drawing anime eyes, grab a pencil and let’s dive into this step-by-step guide!
Step 1: Gather your materials
To get started, you’ll need a few basic art supplies. These include a pencil, eraser, fine-tip pen or marker, and a sheet of paper. Opt for a good quality graphite pencil, preferably 2B or 4B, which allows for both light and dark shading.
Step 2: Outline the basic shape
Begin by lightly sketching an oval shape on your paper. This will serve as the outline for the eye. Keep the proportions in mind, as this will determine the size and shape of the eye. Anime eyes can vary greatly, so feel free to experiment with different shapes, such as almond or round.
Step 3: Add the iris and pupil
Within the oval shape, draw a smaller oval towards the top half, leaving a small space for the highlight. This will be the iris of the eye. Then, draw a small circle near the center of the iris to represent the pupil. The size and shape of the iris and pupil can vary, depending on the expression you want the eye to portray.
Step 4: Detail the iris
To create a sense of depth in the eye, add details to the iris. Start by drawing curved lines radiating from the pupil, known as eye lines. These lines can follow the natural curve of the eye or extend beyond the iris depending on the desired effect. Add more details such as circles or dots to further enhance the iris.
Step 5: Draw the eyelashes and eyelid
Carefully sketch the upper and lower eyelids around the iris. Anime eyelids can be thin or thick, producing different effects. Next, draw the eyelashes above and below the eye. Keep them long and curved, giving the eye a more feminine appearance. For male characters, you can make the eyelashes shorter and less noticeable.
Step 6: Shade and add highlights
Now, it’s time to bring your anime eye to life! Begin by shading the pupil, iris, and eyelids. Use your pencil to create a smooth transition from light to dark areas. Remember to use lighter shading towards the center of the iris to mimic the effect of light hitting the eye.
After shading, add a small highlight to the eye using your eraser. This bright spot adds a touch of realism and makes the eye appear glossy. Experiment with the placement and shape of the highlight for different effects.
Step 7: Final touches
Once you’re satisfied with the shading and highlights, use a fine-tip pen or marker to outline your drawing. Darken the lines, paying close attention to the eyelashes, iris, and the shape of the eye. This will make your drawing stand out and give it a polished look. Finally, erase any unnecessary guidelines and smudges to clean up your work.
Congratulations! You have successfully created an anime eye. Remember, practice is key when it comes to improving your drawing skills. Feel free to experiment with different eye shapes, expressions, and colors to develop your unique style. With dedication, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning anime artworks!