If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to teach kids how to draw a baby flamingo, you’re in the right place.

This post features a brand-new video drawing tutorial straight from the pages of my book Trace Then Color: Baby Animals. The featured character today is a baby flamingo—fluffy, round, with oversized eyes and a cheerful little wobble. It’s one of the cutest animals in the book, and a great starting point for anyone learning how to draw a baby flamingo.

Watch the Tutorial: How to Draw A Baby Flamingo Step by Step

In the free video tutorial below, I walk you through every step needed to learn how to draw a baby flamingo just like the one in the book. No guesswork, no complicated lines—just simple shapes, clear instructions, and fun details.

This style is approachable for kids as young as five but also enjoyable for anyone looking to relax and sketch something sweet and silly. The drawing starts with basic shapes, builds up with gentle curves, and ends with light shading and color. By the end, you’ll know how to draw a baby flamingo with confidence—and you’ll have a finished character that feels full of personality.

Watch the video tutorial here:

About the Book: Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

This drawing comes from my book Trace Then Color: Baby Animals, which is part of the larger Trace Then Color series. The book features 30+ baby animal characters in a variety of adorable poses—from a sleepy koala to a playful dolphin, a giggling panda, a shy alligator, a fluffy llama (also featured in a previous freebie), and now, our spotlight character: a baby flamingo.

Each page is designed to build drawing confidence. Kids trace the outlines of the character, then color it in however they like. It’s a gentle, low-pressure way to help young artists improve control, recognize shapes, and have fun creating something they’re proud of.

And for those specifically looking to learn how to draw a baby flamingo, this book gives them the perfect opportunity to do so in a way that feels achievable and fun.

Get The Book!

Why Tracing Works

The Trace Then Color method is about more than just filling in lines. It’s a smart, structured way to practice drawing fundamentals like:

• Line control
• Shape recognition
• Fine motor skills
• Focus and concentration

Tracing allows kids to follow a clear path and build up their muscle memory as they go. They’re not just coloring—they’re learning how shapes come together to form characters.

So when your child wants to know how to draw a baby flamingo, giving them a page from this book lets them start with a strong foundation. They can trace the entire flamingo, color it in, then maybe even try drawing it freehand later on.

What Makes Trace Then Color: Baby Animals Different?

There are plenty of tracing books out there, but this one focuses specifically on cute, cartoon-style baby animals designed to appeal to younger kids and early learners. The expressions are friendly, the lines are bold and clean, and each character has its own little personality.

If your child wants to learn how to draw a baby flamingo, this book provides a ready-made guide—and once they’re finished, they can move on to other favorites like a baby cat, dog, dolphin, or giraffe. There’s always another adorable animal waiting on the next page.

Book Details

About the Trace Then Color Series

The Trace Then Color series is one of my favorite formats to create. It’s designed for young artists who are still building confidence and coordination but who also want to feel like they’re really drawing.

Each one focuses on a different theme, but they all follow the same simple formula: trace the character, color it in, and enjoy the process.

Books like Trace Then Color: Baby Animals are especially great for ages 4–8, but older kids (and even adults) can enjoy them too. Whether your child is asking how to draw a baby flamingo or just wants a relaxing, creative activity, this series is a solid choice.

Creative Benefits for Kids

Beyond just teaching your child how to draw a baby flamingo, books like this support:

• Creativity: Kids can customize each character with their own colors and patterns.
• Problem-solving: Figuring out where each line goes is a great way to develop critical thinking.
• Confidence: Finishing a drawing feels good. Tracing lets kids succeed right away.

These books are structured but still open-ended. That’s what makes them work so well in both home and classroom settings.

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

Get Started Today

If you’ve got a kid who loves animals, flamingos, or just drawing cute stuff, this book is for them. Watch the video tutorial to learn how to draw a baby flamingo, then check out the full book for more characters in the same adorable style.

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals is available now on Amazon. Whether you’re using it as a homeschool art resource, a rainy-day activity, or a way to encourage independent creativity, it’s a reliable go-to for early learners who want to draw more and feel good doing it.

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Baby Flamingo | Learn to Draw Baby Animals | Fun and Cute Drawing Activity for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

One of the most popular questions I get from parents and educators is how to encourage kids to draw more creatively, especially when they’re just learning letters and shapes. That’s exactly where How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters comes in. This book blends letter recognition with creativity in a way that’s playful, silly, and a little weird—in the best possible way.

And today, I’m sharing a freebie page from the book featuring the letter M. It’s been turned into a monster, of course, because what better way to get kids excited about art than letting them draw an alphabet monster?

Get The Book!

What Is How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters?

How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters is part of my “How to Draw” series, designed to help kids gain confidence through step-by-step drawing. Each character in this book starts with a letter from the alphabet and transforms it into a unique, expressive monster.

The concept is simple but effective: every letter becomes a creative starting point. Whether it’s a grumpy G, a sleepy S, or a mischievous M (like the one featured in today’s freebie), each page encourages kids to observe, follow easy steps, and eventually draw an alphabet monster all on their own.

Freebie Feature: Monster M

This week’s freebie is from the letter M page. This monster has big round eyes, fuzzy eyebrows, and a silly grin—designed to spark a laugh or two while helping young artists practice their lines and shapes.

The step-by-step format breaks the process down into manageable parts, so even beginners can draw an alphabet monster without feeling overwhelmed. The goal here isn’t perfection—it’s to help kids feel successful, have fun, and maybe even start inventing monsters of their own.

Why Drawing Alphabet Monsters Is a Smart Way to Learn

When kids draw an alphabet monster, they’re doing more than just doodling. They’re also:

• Reinforcing letter shapes in a hands-on way
• Practicing spatial awareness by working within the letterform
• Building drawing confidence through fun, achievable projects
• Using imagination to bring something unexpected to life

Most importantly, this format encourages kids to think creatively about something familiar. They’ve seen letters before—but turning one into a monster opens up a new level of engagement.

Part of the Bigger “How to Draw” Series

If you’re familiar with my work, you know I’ve created a full range of books under the “How to Draw” series, covering everything from cartoon dinosaurs to food monsters. The goal is always the same: make drawing accessible, fun, and confidence-building for kids (and honestly, for grownups too).

How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters fits right into that mission. Each letter is a new challenge, and each monster feels fresh. Whether a kid is working through the alphabet or jumping around to find their favorite letters, they’ll have lots of chances to draw an alphabet monster their own way.

And because every page has clear steps, it’s easy for kids ages 5 and up to follow along, no matter their skill level.

Free Activity Page (save and print):

How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters

Use It at Home, in the Classroom, or on the Go

How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters works well as a quiet-time activity at home, a creative warm-up in the classroom, or even an art prompt in group settings. Teachers have told me it’s a great way to mix literacy with visual arts. Parents love that it keeps kids focused and entertained. And kids? They just love drawing weird monsters.

If your child enjoys making art, or you’re looking for a way to make letter-learning more engaging, this book offers a fun balance between structure and imagination.

It’s also a great way to start conversations: What kind of monster would the letter Z be? What would a monster B sound like when it talks? Questions like these make the act of drawing even more interactive.

Every time a kid draws an alphabet monster, they’re not just sketching—they’re storytelling.

Designed for Creativity, Built for Confidence

I design my books with a few core ideas in mind:

• Keep it simple. Steps should be easy to follow, with nothing too complicated for beginners.
• Make it fun. If it doesn’t feel playful, kids won’t want to keep going.
• Let kids finish with something they’re proud of. When a child sees the monster they just drew and recognizes the letter hidden inside, that’s a confidence boost.

How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters sticks to these principles, offering a full alphabet of monster-drawing fun that’s light on stress and big on smiles. Every time a child gets to draw an alphabet monster, they’re getting a little better at turning ideas into images, and letters into lively characters.

Book Details

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a creative way to introduce or reinforce the alphabet—especially for young artists who like to draw monsters, creatures, or silly characters—How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters is a great option.

And don’t forget to grab today’s freebie page featuring the letter M. It’s a fun, approachable way to jump into the book and let your child or student draw an alphabet monster right away.

You can find How to Draw: Alphabet Monsters on Amazon along with the rest of my activity books. And if you’re already working through the alphabet—keep going. There’s a new monster waiting behind every letter.

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw An Alphabet Monster | Featuring The Letter “M” | A Fun 20 Minute All-Ages Drawing Activity appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’re searching for a fun, imaginative art activity that encourages children to create their own cartoon character, Shape Drawing Challenge is a great place to start. This book takes a unique approach to drawing—it’s not about copying specific designs or following tight instructions. Instead, it invites kids to think outside the box, come up with their own ideas, and turn simple shapes into expressive, original creations.

Whether your child is a budding artist or just starting out, this book is designed to push their imagination, build their confidence, and help them learn how to create their own cartoon character in ways that feel natural and fun.

Get The Book!

What Is Shape Drawing Challenge?

At a glance, each page in Shape Drawing Challenge starts with just a few basic shapes—circles, triangles, squiggles, maybe a square or two. But that’s just the beginning. The real challenge? Deciding what to turn those shapes into. A monster? A robot? A silly bird wearing a hat? Anything goes.

Every prompt encourages the reader to create their own cartoon character from the given shapes. There are no step-by-step instructions here—just creativity, problem-solving, and plenty of space to draw something totally original.

That makes this book a great alternative to traditional how-to-draw books. It invites kids to take creative risks and discover the joy of developing characters from their own imagination.

Why It Helps Kids Create Better Art—and Think More Creatively

One of the biggest challenges for young artists is coming up with ideas. Staring at a blank page can feel overwhelming, especially if they’re not sure where to start. Shape Drawing Challenge gives them a nudge in the right direction. The shapes act as creative seeds. Kids then use their imagination to grow something completely new.

And because every prompt is open-ended, there’s no “wrong” answer. That makes it much easier for kids to try something, make mistakes, and learn as they go. This kind of creative freedom helps build confidence and problem-solving skills—especially when the goal is to create your own cartoon character.

Over time, kids begin to think like artists. They see that every character begins with a shape or an idea. They start to understand that drawing isn’t just about copying—it’s about inventing.

A Creative Boost for Every Skill Level

You don’t need to be an experienced artist to get something out of this book. In fact, it works especially well for beginners. For anyone who want to learn how to create your own cartoon character, but aren’t ready for complex anatomy or perspective lessons, this book gives them a place to play, experiment, and explore.

• For beginners, it offers structure and inspiration without being overwhelming.
• For more confident artists, it challenges them to look at drawing differently.
• For reluctant artists, it turns drawing into a game, not a test.

The freedom to be silly, weird, or even a little abstract means there’s no pressure to get it “right.” It’s about personal expression, which is exactly what’s needed when learning to create your own cartoon character.

Book Details

What Kids Learn as They Draw

Behind the fun and the doodling, this book is actually helping kids build a variety of creative skills:

• Creative Problem Solving – Turning a random group of shapes into a recognizable drawing requires lateral thinking.
• Visual Storytelling – When you create your own cartoon character, you naturally begin to imagine personalities, stories, and settings.
• Artistic Confidence – With no “correct” answer, kids get used to making creative decisions and owning their ideas.
• Original Thinking – Kids learn not just to draw, but to invent, adapt, and reimagine.

These are valuable skills that extend well beyond art. Thinking creatively and solving problems visually are critical in all kinds of academic and real-world situations.

Perfect for Home, Classroom, or Group Activities

The versatility of Shape Drawing Challenge makes it a great choice for different settings:

• Ideal for quiet time, travel, or after-school activities
• A fun option for classroom creativity breaks
• Great for art clubs or homeschool co-ops
• Useful as a daily warm-up for kids who already enjoy drawing
• An inspiring tool for kids who want to create their own cartoon character from scratch

It’s also one of those books kids can come back to again and again. The same shape challenge might inspire a totally different drawing each time. That’s what keeps it fresh.

Shape Drawing Challenge

How It Fits in With My Other Books

I design all my books with the same goal in mind: to help kids develop their drawing skills while keeping the experience fun and accessible. The Shape Drawing Challenge steps away from instructional methods like “step-by-step” or “grid-based” approaches and instead encourages kids to think more abstractly.

While the “How to Draw” and “Trace Then Color” books help build technique and observation, Shape Drawing Challenge is all about open-ended exploration. It supports young artists as they learn how to create their own cartoon character using their own imagination and ideas.

It’s a great companion to the rest of my books—and a perfect tool for creative variety.

Why “Create Your Own Cartoon Character” Is Such a Valuable Skill

Kids love cartoons. They love the characters, the stories, and the personalities. But drawing a cartoon from imagination is a whole different skill than copying someone else’s design.

That’s where this book really shines.

By inviting kids to start with a few shapes and invent their own creature, animal, or character, they’re learning how to create their own cartoon character in a way that feels fun and natural. They start thinking like creators—not just fans. And that’s a huge step in artistic development.

This skill—of inventing something from nothing—is one they can carry with them for years. Whether they continue drawing, storytelling, animating, or designing, the ability to create your own cartoon character is the foundation of so many creative paths.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a creative drawing book that does more than teach kids how to copy, Shape Drawing Challenge is it. It’s all about exploration, problem-solving, and original thinking. It gives you the tools and space to create your own cartoon character on every page.

And most importantly, it gives them permission to be creative on their own terms.

You can find Shape Drawing Challenge now on Amazon, along with other creative activity books designed to help young artists grow. Whether your child is just learning to draw or already spends hours sketching characters, this book is a fun and thoughtful addition to their creative toolkit.

Ready to see what your child can dream up from a few simple shapes?

Let them discover how to create their own cartoon character—their way.

Learn More

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The post Create Your Own Cartoon Character with the Shape Drawing Challenge | Draw with Imagination and Shapes | All-Ages Fun appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you like drawing and coloring strange, imaginative creatures, you’re going to love this: I’ve got a free page straight from my book Trace Then Color: Mutant Animals featuring a one-eyed mutant turtle. That’s right—you can color a mutant turtle with a single cycloptic eye, a twisted shell, and lots of little details that make him totally weird and totally fun.

The free page is a perfect example of what you’ll find throughout the book. First, you trace the drawing to build confidence with lines and shapes. Then, you color it however you want—go wild with bright colors, or go for something more reptilian and earthy. Either way, this cycloptic turtle is ready for you to bring him to life.

Book Details

About Trace Then Color: Mutant Animals

This book is part of my “Trace Then Color” series, and it’s packed with all kinds of freaky, funny, and wild mutant animals. From tentacled birds to fish with fangs, and yes, plenty more mutant turtles, every page gives kids a chance to practice their drawing skills while having a blast.

The concept is simple: trace the picture, then color it in. It’s a great way for beginner artists to build drawing confidence without starting from a blank page. That structure makes it easier to focus on line work, shapes, and proportion—while still having plenty of fun.

Why This Book Works for So Many Kids

When I was designing Trace Then Color: Mutant Animals, I wanted to make something that would feel fun and imaginative, but also low-pressure. You don’t have to get it perfect. The whole idea is to get kids used to the feel of drawing while letting them play with creative ideas like extra limbs, goofy eyes, or mixed-up animal combos.

So who is this book for? It’s made for:

• Kids just starting out with drawing
• Fans of funny, offbeat creatures
• Parents looking for screen-free creative time
• Teachers who want something different for their art table

It’s also great for kids who feel stuck with a blank page. Tracing helps reduce that fear of messing up because the lines are already there. Once they trace a few mutant animals, they start to build confidence and often begin drawing on their own, unprompted.

Get The Book!

Color a Mutant Turtle and So Much More

The cycloptic turtle is just the beginning. Inside Trace Then Color: Mutant Animals, you’ll find 30+ creatures that don’t exist in the real world, but totally should. Some are silly. Some are weird. Some are just plain creepy. And every single one is ready to be traced and colored by young artists who want something a little different.

This is one of those books where you can color a mutant turtle on one page, and a three-eyed duck-lizard hybrid on the next. Every spread is a surprise, which makes it super fun for kids who like quirky or unexpected characters.

And while it’s all a little wild, it’s also a sneaky way to build real drawing skills. Tracing helps with:

• Hand-eye coordination
• Line confidence
• Understanding how complex shapes come together
• Learning to observe and mimic forms

So yes, they’ll color a mutant turtle—and have fun doing it—but they’ll also be growing as artists without even realizing it.

About the Trace Then Color Series

Right now, the Trace Then Color series includes 24 different themes, with more on the way. Each book is designed to make drawing less intimidating and more accessible. You trace the characters, color them in, and before you know it, you’ve created your own art.

Some books focus on sweet and simple stuff like baby animals or cartoon food. Others go into strange territory, like goofy faces, weird creatures, or crusty goobers. No matter what the theme, the goal is the same: make drawing fun, approachable, and pressure-free.

If you want to help a beginner artist build confidence, these books are a solid place to start. They don’t teach drawing in a strict way—they ease kids into the habit of making lines, shapes, and characters. That’s what really matters when you’re getting started.

Try the Free Page and Start Today

If you’re curious about the book, the best place to start is with the free cycloptic turtle page. You get a real taste of what the book is all about: a mix of weird creativity, structured drawing practice, and coloring fun. Just print it out, grab a pencil and some markers or crayons, and dive in.

Free Activity Page (save and print):

There are lots of ways to color a mutant turtle. Make him bright green with purple eyes, or give him metallic armor and red scales. Whatever you decide, the point is to enjoy the process. Once your kid finishes the turtle, they’ll probably want to try a few more—and the book will be right there, full of mutant animals to trace and color next.

Thanks for checking out the freebie, and I hope it gets your young artist excited to color a mutant turtle and a whole lot more!

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The post Free Activity Page: Trace Then Color A Mutant Turtle Cyclops | A Tracing and Coloring Activity | 20 Minutes of Fun! appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’ve ever wondered how to draw an Ankylosaurus in a fun, cartoon style, you’re in luck! We’re sharing a brand-new, step-by-step video tutorial that walks you through the process from start to finish. This cheerful, armor-covered dinosaur is a fan favorite, and now you can learn exactly how to bring it to life on paper.

This free video tutorial is based on a character straight from our book How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs, and it’s the perfect introduction for anyone interested in drawing dinosaurs with a lighthearted twist. Whether your child is just getting started or already enjoys sketching, they’ll love creating this friendly Ankylosaurus—complete with its trademark tail club and bony plates.

How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs

What You’ll Learn in the Video: How to Draw an Ankylosaurus

Our tutorial makes it easy to follow along with simple shapes and step-by-step instructions. The video covers:

• Basic shapes to start your Ankylosaurus drawing
• Adding facial features for a cartoon look
• Drawing the dinosaur’s armored body and tail
• How to finish your drawing with clean lines

It’s a fun and rewarding way to learn how to draw an Ankylosaurus while exploring your creativity. Even beginners can complete the full drawing with just a pencil, paper, and about 10 minutes of time.

Get The Book!

Why Cartoon Dinosaurs Make Drawing Fun

Real dinosaurs are fascinating—but when you add some cartoon charm, they become even more fun to draw. That’s exactly what How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs is all about. This book features 50 original cartoon dinosaurs, each with their own unique poses, expressions, and prehistoric personality.

If your child is into dinosaurs, cartoons, or both, this book offers the best of both worlds. It’s part of our How to Draw series of beginner-friendly drawing books designed to help kids build skills while having a blast.

About the Book: How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs

How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs includes:

• 50 step-by-step drawing guides
• Easy-to-follow instructions
• A wide range of dinosaur types and expressions
• Characters with movement, emotion, and personality

This book is a fun way to practice drawing while keeping kids entertained and engaged. From toothy Tyrannosaurus rexes to soaring Pterodactyls, and yes—even the lovable Ankylosaurus—there’s a dinosaur here for everyone.

No prior drawing experience is needed. Each character starts with a few basic shapes and builds up to a full cartoon drawing in a way that’s simple and confidence-boosting.

Let’s Draw Dinosaurs!

Benefits of Learning How to Draw an Ankylosaurus

When kids learn how to draw an Ankylosaurus, they’re doing more than just putting lines on paper. They’re developing key skills like:

• Hand-eye coordination
• Fine motor control
• Observation skills
• Pattern recognition
• Creative thinking

The act of following step-by-step instructions also supports cognitive development. Plus, the satisfaction of completing a drawing on their own builds confidence and encourages further creativity.

And since the Ankylosaurus is a dinosaur with unique features—armor, tail club, spikes—it’s especially fun and educational to draw.

What Makes the How to Draw Series Unique?

Our How to Draw books are designed to make drawing accessible for kids of all ages. Here’s what makes the series stand out:

• Clear, step-by-step instructions for every drawing
• Fun and playful characters across a variety of themes
• Skill-building activities that grow with your child
• Beginner-friendly approach with no prior experience needed
• 100+ titles across dozens of themes—more added all the time

Each book in the series is carefully crafted to guide young artists as they improve their drawing skills. The goal is to make drawing fun, not frustrating.

Some of the other themes in the How to Draw series include:

• Cute Cartoon Animals
• Silly Faces
• Robots and Aliens
• Sea Creatures
• Food Monsters
• Unicorns and Princesses

And of course, plenty of dinosaurs!

Learning at Your Own Pace

One of the best things about learning how to draw an Ankylosaurus from a book or video tutorial is the flexibility it provides. Kids can pause, rewind, and revisit any step they want until they feel confident. That’s a huge benefit compared to live classes or fast-paced online content.

Plus, once they master how to draw an Ankylosaurus, they can use those same skills to create their own unique dinosaurs—changing facial expressions, poses, or even mashing up features from different creatures.

Learn More

Drawing Together

While our video and books are perfect for solo learning, they’re also great for family time, group projects, or art class fun. Drawing a cartoon Ankylosaurus together can turn into a collaborative activity where everyone adds their own flair.

Try it out:

• Watch the video tutorial as a group
• Pause at each step to let everyone catch up
• Compare drawings at the end and celebrate each one

Every drawing will turn out a little different—and that’s the best part.

Start with the Video, Then Dive into the Book

The free tutorial on how to draw an Ankylosaurus is a great place to start. Once kids get a feel for the process and complete their first drawing, the natural next step is to explore the full book How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs.

With 49 more characters to discover, there’s no shortage of prehistoric fun waiting in the pages.

And because it’s part of a larger series, once your child finishes drawing dinosaurs, they can continue learning with other themed books that match their interests.

Get Started

Ready to Learn How to Draw an Ankylosaurus?

Watch the video tutorial above, follow along, and try it for yourself. It’s a fun and engaging way to start drawing right now. Once you’re done, you can keep the momentum going with How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs and the entire How to Draw series.

So grab your pencil and paper—it’s time to learn how to draw an Ankylosaurus!

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The post Free Video Drawing Tutorial: How To Draw An Ankylosaurus | A 12 Minute Dinosaur Drawing Activity for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’ve ever searched for fun and approachable drawing activities for kids, chances are you’ve come across the grid method. It’s a classic technique that makes learning to draw easier by helping artists focus on one small square at a time. That’s the idea behind the Draw by Grid series—books that combine simple, structured exercises with imaginative characters. And today, we’re highlighting one of the most popular titles in the collection: Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Animals.

Whether your child is just getting into drawing or already enjoys sketching, this book offers a guided path toward creative confidence. Plus, we’re sharing a free drawing page from the book—a grid-based activity that shows how to draw a sheep step-by-step.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this book (and the series as a whole) a great fit for young artists.

Book Details

What Is Draw by Grid?

The Draw by Grid method is simple but powerful. Each drawing is broken down into a grid of small squares. Kids look at the square-by-square reference on one side and copy what they see into a matching blank grid. This approach helps kids slow down, pay attention to shapes, and feel more in control of their drawing.

Unlike tracing or coloring books, Draw by Grid helps children build their own artwork from scratch—just one piece at a time. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about learning how to observe and translate images to paper in a fun and stress-free way.

Spotlight: Draw by Grid — Cute Cartoon Animals

In Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Animals, kids will learn how to draw 50 different animal characters in a fun cartoon style. Each one has big eyes, expressive faces, and simple features that are easy to copy using the grid method. Some of the animals include:

• A smiling lion
• A hopping bunny
• A rowdy rhino
• A baby hippo
• A silly octopus
• And yes, a cute cartoon sheep—which you can try for free!

Each character is designed to be both adorable and accessible, so kids won’t feel overwhelmed. Every page includes a reference image on the left, and a matching blank grid on the right, making it easy to focus on one square at a time.

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals

Free Grid Drawing Page: How to Draw a Sheep

To give you a preview of what the book offers, we’ve included a free sample page featuring a sheep character. This step-by-step activity teaches your child how to draw a sheep using the grid method. The sheep is fluffy, cheerful, and simple to recreate—making it a perfect starting point for beginners.

This grid page breaks the sheep into smaller, manageable parts. Kids focus on one box at a time, copying what they see as they build up the full drawing. It’s a calm, screen-free activity that promotes concentration, observation, and hand-eye coordination.

By the time they finish the drawing, they’ll not only have a cute cartoon sheep to show off—they’ll also have a better understanding of how to break down and build up more complex images in the future.

If you’re here specifically looking for tips on how to draw a sheep, this is one of the most accessible ways to learn.

Free Activity Pages “How to Draw a Sheep” (save and print):

Get The Book!

Why Kids (and Parents) Love the Draw by Grid Series

The Draw by Grid series isn’t just about copying pictures—it’s about building drawing confidence from the ground up. Here’s why so many kids enjoy these books:

• Clear Structure: The grid gives kids a road map to follow. No guessing where to start or how big to make a line—it’s all laid out.
• Creative Freedom: Once they finish the grid drawing, kids can color their characters, add backgrounds, or even change features to make the art their own.
• Skill Development: This method builds visual-spatial skills, attention to detail, and fine motor coordination.
• No Experience Required: Beginners can dive right in. You don’t need to know how to draw a sheep—or any animal—to enjoy these activities.

What Makes These Books Different

There are lots of art books for kids, but the Draw by Grid series fills a unique space between tracing and freehand drawing. It provides a gentle structure that allows for artistic success, even on the first try.

Unlike other approaches, the grid method encourages focus without feeling overwhelming. Kids don’t have to draw everything at once—they just work square by square, and watch the picture come together like a puzzle.

And while the sheep page is a great place to start, every animal in the book offers the same kind of learning experience. If your child figures out how to draw a sheep, they’ll quickly discover they can also draw a llama, a pig, or even a panda.

Learn More

Great for a Range of Ages

Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Animals is ideal for kids around 4–12 years old, but it’s flexible enough for younger or older artists as well. Younger kids can enjoy the simplicity of the designs, while older kids can challenge themselves by adding detail or using the finished drawing as inspiration for their own versions.

This also makes the book a good fit for classrooms, homeschool lessons, or art time at home. If you’re teaching your child how to draw a sheep or any animal, the book works just as well for independent or guided learning.

A Screen-Free Drawing Activity with Real Benefits

With so much of kids’ entertainment happening on screens, it’s important to find off-screen options that still feel fun. That’s why books like Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Animals are so valuable. They turn learning how to draw a sheep (and dozens of other animals) into a creative hands-on project.

Plus, grid drawing activities promote patience, quiet focus, and spatial awareness. Kids develop real drawing skills without even realizing it.

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Wrap-Up: Start with a Sheep, Draw Them All

If you’ve been looking for a fun and beginner-friendly way to teach your child how to draw a sheep, this book is a great starting point. The free sample page offers a complete grid drawing activity that you can try right now. Once your child finishes their sheep, they’ll be ready to tackle the rest of the animals inside the book.

Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Animals is more than a one-time activity—it’s a full collection of lessons in disguise. Each page helps kids build confidence and skills while enjoying the process. And if they love this one, the Draw by Grid series has more books to explore, covering everything from monsters to mutant animals to fantasy creatures.

So print out the free page, grab a pencil, and let your child discover the joy of drawing—one square at a time. They’ll learn how to draw a sheep today, and who knows what they’ll be drawing next week.

Download the Free Grid Drawing Pages above and Try It Out

You’ll be surprised how simple and satisfying it is to learn how to draw a sheep using the grid method.

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw a Sheep with the Grid Drawing Method | Learn to Draw by Grid | #1 Drawing Series for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’re just getting started with drawing—or helping a child who is—it can be tough to know where to begin. There are so many books out there, and not all of them are made with beginners in mind. Whether you’re teaching a child, picking up a pencil for the first time in years, or just looking for an approachable way to grow your skills, choosing the best drawing books for beginners can make all the difference.

That’s exactly why I created my collection of beginner-friendly activity books. These books are designed to take the guesswork out of learning to draw. Each title is built around one core idea: drawing should be simple, fun, and rewarding from the very first page.

Browse Our Activity Books

Let’s talk about what makes a great beginner drawing book—and why my books are helping so many young (and young-at-heart) artists grow with confidence.

What Makes the Best Drawing Books for Beginners?

The best drawing books for beginners have a few key things in common:

• Clear step-by-step instructions
• Fun, engaging themes
• Age-appropriate guidance
• No prior experience required
• Encouragement to experiment and build confidence

All of these features are built into the drawing books I create. Whether it’s a child exploring basic cartoon shapes or an adult easing back into sketching, each book is carefully designed to guide you through the process without frustration.

Three Easy Ways to Learn: Step-by-Step, Tracing, and Grid Drawing

To help make drawing accessible to every type of learner, my books are organized into three main series, each with its own beginner-friendly style:

1. How to Draw (Step-by-Step Series)

Perfect for ages 6 and up, this series walks you through each drawing one step at a time—from basic shapes to the final outline. These books cover a wide variety of themes including:

• Cute cartoon animals
• Mythical creatures like unicorns and mermaids
• Monsters, aliens, and silly faces
• Food with personality (yes, food monsters!)
• Dinosaurs, sea creatures, and much more

The step-by-step format is ideal for visual learners and kids who love to build something from scratch. It teaches structure, proportion, and confidence, all in an enjoyable and approachable way.

Explore The “How to Draw” Books

2. Trace Then Color

Tracing is one of the most underrated tools in learning how to draw. In the Trace Then Color series, each page allows kids to trace over light outlines of a drawing, helping them develop muscle memory, control, and shape recognition.

This series is especially great for younger kids or those who feel nervous about drawing on their own. The added coloring element keeps things fun and creative, and helps kids feel proud of their work—even if they’re just starting out.

Themes include:

• Baby animals and cute creatures
• Robots, dinosaurs, and aliens
• Goofy and grumpy faces
• Princesses, unicorns, and fairies
• Fish, sea creatures, and more

See The “Trace Then Color” Books

3. Draw by Grid

For those ready to learn a bit more structure and observation, the Draw by Grid series introduces a classic artist technique: the grid method. It’s a time-tested approach that makes it easier to draw more complex images by focusing on one square at a time.

This style is ideal for kids ready to challenge themselves, or for beginners who prefer a more guided, logical layout to their drawing practice. It helps build patience, attention to detail, and proportion—all essential drawing skills.

Popular grid book themes include cute cartoon monsters, mutant animals, robots, and more.

Browse the “Draw by Grid” Books

Why These Books Work So Well for Beginners

I created these books to be more than just a set of instructions—they’re designed to offer encouragement. Each drawing feels like a mini accomplishment, and that momentum builds real confidence.

Many beginner artists struggle because they jump into drawing books that are too advanced, or they try to copy complex illustrations without any help breaking down the process. These books avoid that entirely.

Instead of overwhelming instructions or expectations, these books give beginners:

• Simple paths to follow
• Cute, funny, or exciting characters to draw
• A growing sense of progress and confidence
• Space to add their own creativity as they grow

Drawing Is More Than Just a Hobby

For kids, learning to draw builds more than just art skills. It improves:

• Fine motor skills
• Focus and patience
• Visual perception
• Self-esteem through accomplishment
• Creative problem-solving

These books are made to support that development while keeping things lighthearted and fun. Whether you’re homeschooling, looking for screen-free activities, or filling out an art corner in your classroom, these best drawing books for beginners fit the need.

Get The Books!

Ideal For Home, School, or On-the-Go

All of the books in the series are designed to be self-guided and portable. You don’t need any special tools—just a pencil and some coloring supplies. That makes them perfect for:

• Rainy day activities
• Travel and waiting rooms
• After-school programs
• Art stations in classrooms
• Gifts and party favors

They also pair well with drawing tutorials, online classes, or YouTube videos—so kids can follow along, pause when needed, and return to the books for more hands-on practice.

Click Here To See The Best Drawing Books for Beginners

Over 70 Books and Growing

Right now, there are more than 70 beginner drawing books available, covering over 24 unique themes. Whether your child is into princesses, monsters, or space creatures, there’s something to match their imagination.

More books are always on the way, and the goal is to keep expanding into new themes, characters, and creative styles—so your child always has something new to try.

Find A Theme

Where to Start

If you’re looking for the best drawing books for beginners and you’re not sure where to begin, think about your child’s (or your own) interests. Do they love animals? Are they into fantasy or sci-fi? Do they like drawing people or silly faces?

With the best drawing books for beginners you just have to choose a book with a theme that excites them, and go from there. Each book is designed to work as a stand-alone guide, so you don’t have to complete one before starting another.

Click Here To See The Best Drawing Books for Beginners

Final Thoughts: The Best Drawing Books for Beginners Should Be Fun

When it comes to learning a new skill like drawing, enjoyment is everything. That’s why these books are built with fun at the center—because beginners who enjoy drawing are the ones who keep going.

If you’re looking for the best drawing books for beginners, I invite you to explore this collection. These books are fun, effective, and made to help every young artist build skills with confidence.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or creative beginner yourself, these books offer a fantastic entry point into the world of drawing—no stress, no pressure, just pure creative discovery.

Learn More

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Click Here To See The Best Drawing Books for Beginners

The post The Best Drawing Books for Beginners: Fun, Easy, and Designed for Success appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If your child is a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (I know I am), there’s a good chance they have a favorite turtle (I do)—and for many, that turtle is Donatello. Known for his intelligence, tech-savvy skills, and signature bo staff, Donatello has always been a standout among the team. And now, your young artist can learn how to draw Donatello step by step with our free video drawing tutorial.

This beginner-friendly video breaks the character down into simple, easy-to-follow shapes and lines. It’s perfect for kids who are just learning to draw or those who love sketching their favorite heroes from pop culture. All they need is a pencil, paper, and a few minutes to dive in.

Why Drawing Donatello Is a Great Place to Start

When it comes to cartoon characters, Donatello is a solid choice for beginner artists. His design is expressive but not overly complicated. With the help of the video tutorial, kids can learn to draw his headband, bo staff, shell, and signature pose without feeling overwhelmed.

The key here is confidence. When a child successfully draws a character they know and love, like Donatello, it fuels their interest and motivates them to keep going. This sense of accomplishment often opens the door to exploring new drawing techniques and trying more challenging subjects.

Watch The Tutorial:

A Natural Extension: Learning with the “How to Draw” Series

After your child has finished their Donatello drawing, they might be looking for their next creative challenge. That’s where the How to Draw series comes in. These books are designed with the same philosophy in mind: make drawing fun, approachable, and skill-building.

The series features step-by-step instructions that guide kids through every stage of a drawing. From simple creatures and silly monsters to themed topics like sea life, animals, food, and fantasy characters, each book is tailored to different interests while sticking to the same accessible drawing method.

Many kids begin with characters they already love—like Donatello—and soon want to create their own. Our books help bridge that gap by teaching how to build characters from scratch: starting with basic shapes, building forms, adding details, and bringing drawings to life with expression and personality.

See Our “How to Draw” Books for Kids

Drawing as a Learning Tool

Drawing isn’t just fun—it’s a skill that supports a child’s development in all kinds of ways:

• Fine Motor Skills: Holding a pencil, following curves, and controlling pressure.
• Focus and Patience: Drawing step-by-step takes attention and persistence.
• Creativity and Imagination: Learning techniques opens doors to inventing new characters and worlds.
• Confidence: Finishing a drawing builds pride and encourages further learning.

When a child sits down and successfully draws Donatello, they realize they can draw. That realization often leads them to want more: different styles, new subjects, and personal projects. Our How to Draw series helps keep that momentum going.

Why the Video Format Works

For visual learners, watching a drawing come together in real-time can be extremely helpful. Our free Donatello video tutorial shows each stroke and shape in sequence, so your child can pause, rewind, and follow at their own pace.

Seeing the character develop step by step demystifies the process. Kids realize that a finished drawing isn’t magic—it’s just a series of simple shapes and lines added in order. That insight can transform the way they think about drawing entirely.

Plus, drawing a well-known character like Donatello adds a layer of excitement. It’s rewarding to draw something familiar, and it gives kids a cool piece of art to show off afterward.

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Themes That Spark Interest

The How to Draw series is packed with themes that match what kids are naturally drawn to. Whether they love animals, fantasy creatures, aliens, robots, food with faces, or silly characters, there’s a book for them. These themes make drawing accessible and entertaining, and they meet kids where they already are in their interests.

If a child starts by drawing Donatello, they might soon want to draw their own superhero, a sidekick, or a creature from another planet. The themed books help kids learn how to take inspiration from existing characters and expand into their own creations.

Screen-Free Creativity

In a time when so many activities involve screens, drawing offers a quiet, focused alternative. The Donatello video may start the process, but what follows is hands-on, screen-free fun. Kids step away from devices and get into a creative flow with nothing but paper and pencil.

That kind of engagement isn’t just relaxing—it’s productive. And it encourages problem-solving, observation, and imagination. Drawing can be a form of mindfulness for kids, giving them a break from busy schedules and digital noise.

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Great for All Skill Levels

Whether your child is brand new to drawing or already filling sketchbooks with creative ideas, there’s something to gain from both the Donatello tutorial and the drawing books that follow.

Beginners benefit from:

• Step-by-step guidance
• Encouraging subject matter
• Simple tools (no special supplies needed)

More experienced young artists can:

• Add personality and detail to their drawings
• Try new styles and techniques
• Create their own versions of favorite characters

No matter where your child is on their drawing journey, our approach is designed to help them grow.

Encouraging Ongoing Creativity

Once a child completes a drawing they’re proud of, the natural next step is asking, “What should I draw next?” That question is at the heart of our drawing series. By offering new characters and styles to explore, the books keep kids moving forward.

Maybe today it’s Donatello. Tomorrow it might be a space alien, a grumpy monster, or a smiling shark. Whatever captures their imagination, there’s a drawing lesson that can bring it to life.

Activity Books for Kids

Try the Donatello Drawing Video Today

If you haven’t already, check out the free drawing video tutorial and let your child try drawing Donatello. It’s a great way to get started, build confidence, and spark a love for drawing that can lead to hours of creative exploration.

And if they enjoy the process, there’s a full world of themed How to Draw books waiting to support them. With approachable lessons, engaging characters, and topics kids already love, the series makes drawing an easy and rewarding part of their daily life.

Start with Donatello. Stick with drawing. See where it leads.

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The post Free Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw Donatello from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles | Fan Art Drawing Series appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If your kid loves drawing silly, colorful, or downright weird creatures, there’s something really fun about letting them loose with a monster theme. And with so many ways to approach drawing, I wanted to offer three different styles to match different skill levels and learning preferences.

That’s where these three books come in:

• How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters
• Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Monsters
• Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Monsters

All three books share the same fun theme—cute cartoon monsters—but each one teaches drawing in its own unique way.

Let’s take a closer look at what sets each book apart.

Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Monsters — A Simple Start for Beginners

This one is great for younger artists or anyone who’s just starting out. Each page features a light gray monster drawing that kids can trace right over. Once they’ve followed the lines, they can color in their drawing however they like.

Why it works:

• Builds confidence through repetition
• Improves pencil control
• Focuses on fun, not perfection
• Great for ages 4–8, or older kids who just want a relaxing activity

The characters are playful, expressive, and friendly-looking—nothing too spooky here. Tracing gives kids a finished result that feels satisfying and encourages them to keep going.

Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Monsters

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters — Step-by-Step Drawing with Clear Instructions

If your child is ready to build a drawing from scratch, this book walks them through each monster one line at a time. The step-by-step format breaks each drawing into simple stages, making it easy to follow and learn.

Why kids love it:

• Each page builds from basic shapes to full characters
• Perfect for kids who want to draw but don’t know where to begin
• Helps develop a drawing process they can apply to new ideas
• Works well for independent learners, ages 5–12

It’s a great next step after tracing, and a strong foundation for anyone interested in creating their own cartoon creatures later on.

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters

Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Monsters — A Visual Puzzle and Drawing Practice in One

The grid drawing method is a little different. Each page shows a full monster character inside a grid, and kids re-create the drawing by copying it one square at a time onto a blank grid.

It’s part drawing, part visual puzzle, and it really helps kids slow down and focus.

Why this method is effective:

• Builds observation and proportion skills
• Breaks down complex shapes into easy parts
• Encourages accuracy without overwhelming
• Great for kids who enjoy detail work and structured activities

This format is ideal for kids who like working carefully and seeing how small pieces add up to a big picture.

Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Monsters

Why Offer the Same Theme in Different Styles?

Kids learn in different ways—and their preferences can change from one week to the next. Some kids might start with tracing and gradually move on to step-by-step drawing. Others might bounce between all three methods depending on their mood.

By using the same monster characters across these books, kids can enjoy a familiar theme while exploring different drawing techniques. It also gives them a chance to revisit their favorite characters in a new way—maybe they trace a monster in one book and then learn to draw it from scratch in another.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Brand new to drawing? Start with Trace Then Color.
• Looking to learn how to build a character from scratch? Go with How to Draw.
• Want a quiet, focused drawing challenge? Try Draw by Grid.

And if your kid really enjoys cute cartoon monsters? There’s no rule against grabbing all three. Each book stands on its own, but together, they offer a rounded and flexible path to learning how to draw.

Drawing Is More Fun with Variety

One of the things I love about offering books in different drawing styles is that kids can experiment and find what feels right for them. Tracing might feel safe and fun today, but by next month, they might be ready to jump into freehand drawing. Or maybe they try grid drawing and discover they like the structure and challenge.

Whatever approach your child enjoys most, these books offer a way to stay creative while building real skills. And since they’re all based on the same theme, switching between them still feels familiar and fun.

Learn More

If you’re interested in introducing your child to cute cartoon monsters—and giving them different tools to explore drawing along the way—check out the full set. Each one is beginner-friendly, kid-tested, and filled with creatures that are more silly than scary.

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The post 3 Ways to Draw Cute Cartoon Monsters: Step-by-Step, Tracing and Coloring, and Grid Drawing Fun | Learn to Draw appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’re looking for a gentle and creative way to help kids build drawing confidence, tracing is a great place to start. And today, I’m sharing a free page from my book Trace Then Color: Baby Animals—featuring a sweet baby llama.

This printable page is simple by design. Kids trace over the light gray lines to draw the character, then color it in however they like. It’s calming, creative, and a great activity for early learners, whether they’re working on pencil control or just enjoy spending time with animals on the page.

The cute baby llama is just one of many characters inside the book—and it’s a great introduction to what Trace Then Color: Baby Animals has to offer.

Book Details

About the Book: Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

This book includes 50 baby animals, all designed in a cute and approachable cartoon style. Each page has a full-page character ready to trace and color, with thick, clear outlines that make the process easy and enjoyable.

Some of the characters inside include:

• Baby flamingo
• Baby dolphin
• Baby koala
• Baby giraffe
• Puppies and kittens
• Baby alligator
• Baby panda
• And many more

The adorable illustrations are intentionally light and playful—simple enough for beginners to trace, but still full of personality once they’re colored in.

Why Tracing Works So Well

Tracing is a great stepping stone for young artists. It helps them:

• Practice fine motor skills
• Learn the rhythm of how lines are shaped
• Build confidence by completing a full character
• Ease into drawing before tackling blank pages

Even if a child isn’t ready to draw on their own yet, tracing gives them a sense of accomplishment. And once they’ve added color and details, it feels like their own creation.

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

What Age Is It For?

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals works well for kids around ages 4 to 8, but younger kids may enjoy it with help, and older kids can still have fun personalizing each page.

It’s also a quiet activity that works well for independent play, morning work, homeschool breaks, or classroom art time.

Use It for Home or School

Whether you’re looking for a weekend art project, a creative way to fill quiet time, or an extra activity for your classroom, this book can fit in easily. Each page is one complete activity, and kids can choose any character that appeals to them that day.

Teachers, therapists, and parents have also told me they like using these books for kids who enjoy drawing but get overwhelmed by blank pages. It’s a simple format that still encourages creativity and gives kids something to feel proud of.

Get The Book!

Try the Free Baby Llama Page

If you’re curious about the book or want to give your child something quick to try, print out the free baby llama tracing page, and see how it goes.

Once they’ve traced and colored it, you’ll get a good sense of how the rest of the book works. And with a variety of animal characters inside, there’s something for every kind of young animal lover.

Free Tracing and Coloring Activity Page (save and print):

Thanks for stopping by—and I hope you and your child enjoy tracing the baby llama on this free activity page for kids. If you do try the page and want more, Trace Then Color: Baby Animals is available online now.

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The post Free Activity Page: Trace Then Color a Baby Llama | Cute Baby Animals Coloring Page | Tracing Activity appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.