Get ready for a prehistoric drawing adventure! In today’s brand-new video tutorial, I’m showing you how to draw a pterodactyl, step by step. This isn’t just any flying dinosaur—it’s a cute, cartoon-style pterodactyl straight from the pages of my book, How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs. If you’re into dinosaurs and love creating silly, expressive characters, this one’s for you.

This video is perfect for young artists, beginners, or anyone looking for a fun way to practice their drawing skills. All you need is a pencil, some paper, and your imagination. Follow along with me and learn how to draw a pterodactyl in just 9 minutes. You’ll be surprised how simple it is to bring this flying reptile to life!

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About the Book: How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs

The adorable pterodactyl in this video is just one of the 50 cartoon dinosaurs you’ll find inside How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs. Each character in the book is broken down into six simple steps so that kids can follow along without getting overwhelmed. The book is designed for ages 5 and up, and it’s perfect for kids who want to draw fun, silly, expressive dinosaurs.

The pterodactyl featured in this video is one of my favorites because of how expressive you can make its wings and beak. In the book, you’ll also find a goofy T. rex, a cheerful stegosaurus, a silly triceratops, and tons more. Like all my books, every single character is hand-drawn by me with care to make sure it’s both fun and achievable for young artists.

If you loved learning how to draw a pterodactyl, you’ll absolutely love flipping through this book and discovering all the other prehistoric pals waiting inside.

Why Kids Love How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs

✅ Step-by-step instructions make drawing accessible and stress-free.

✅ Silly, fun characters that kids actually want to draw.

✅ Perfect for beginners or any young artist who wants to build confidence.

✅ Encourages creativity while teaching structure and sequencing.

✅ Great screen-free activity for classrooms, road trips, or rainy days.

Whether your child is a total beginner or already fills sketchbooks with doodles, this book helps them learn to draw in a way that feels like play. And if they’re excited by today’s video on how to draw a pterodactyl, they’ll be thrilled to take on the other 49 characters in the book.

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Part of the Art Books for Kids Series

How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs is part of my growing Art Books for Kids series, which includes books on animals, robots, food monsters, fairies, and more. Every title in the series is focused on making drawing fun and frustration-free, with characters broken down into simple shapes and easy steps.

Each book includes 50 characters, each one unique and fun to draw. And just like this tutorial showing you how to draw a pterodactyl, all the books are designed to help kids build their skills while having a blast.

If your kids love drawing, collecting characters, or just need a fun activity to keep them busy and creative, this series is for them. And if they’ve mastered how to draw a pterodactyl, they’re well on their way to mastering every book in the lineup!

Free Video Drawing Tutorial:

Take Your Drawing Further

Now that you’ve followed the video and learned how to draw a pterodactyl, try creating your own versions. What happens if your pterodactyl is extra sleepy, or maybe super excited? Try giving it sunglasses, a backpack, or even roller skates. That’s part of the fun—making each character your own.

Drawing should never feel intimidating. My goal with every video and every book is to show kids that drawing is just another way to play. If your kids had fun learning how to draw a pterodactyl today, then this book (and this whole series) is going to keep them entertained for hours.

View All 70+ Art Books for Kids

Grab Your Copy Today

You can check out the free video tutorial to learn how to draw a pterodactyl, and when you’re ready for more, How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs is packed with characters just as fun and quirky. It’s perfect for road trips, summer afternoons, classroom art time, or just a quiet drawing session at home.

Once you know how to draw a pterodactyl, you’ll be itching to learn how to draw all its dinosaur friends too. And with 50 total characters in the book, there’s no shortage of prehistoric fun.

Final Thoughts

I hope you and your kids had a blast learning how to draw a pterodactyl today. It’s one of my favorite characters in the book because it’s so expressive and fun to play around with. The whole How to Draw: Cartoon Dinosaurs book is built around that idea: drawing as play, creativity as a skill, and fun as the foundation.

Thanks for being part of this drawing adventure with me. Now grab those pencils and go draw some more dinosaurs!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Pterodactyl in 9 Minutes | Easy-to-Follow Drawing Activity For Kids | Fun All-Ages Art Books appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

Are you ready to draw something wildly funny and a little bit fruity? In today’s free drawing video, I’m showing you how to draw a Pineapple Monster step-by-step—a hilarious character pulled straight from the pages of my book How to Draw: Food Monsters! This spiky, silly, tropical monster is one of my favorites from the collection, and I can’t wait to show you how to bring him to life on paper.

Whether you’re drawing for fun, working on your cartooning skills, or just love weird and wacky creatures, this is the perfect character to get your imagination going. Grab a pencil, get your sketchbook ready, and follow along as I walk you through how to draw a Pineapple Monster from start to finish.

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From the Book: How to Draw: Food Monsters

The Pineapple Monster you’ll be drawing today is one of 50 food-themed monsters included in my book How to Draw: Food Monsters. This drawing book is packed full of silly, strange, and absolutely hilarious cartoon creatures inspired by everything from burgers and fries to bananas, cupcakes, broccoli, and beyond.

Each character in the book—including the Pineapple Monster—is broken down into six easy steps. The simple format makes it easy for kids (and adults!) to follow along. The Pineapple Monster has spiky pineapple skin, 3 eyes, and a goofy expression that makes him fun to draw and personalize with your own details.

If you enjoy drawing this tropical goofball, you’ll love creating the rest of the gang in the book. It’s a great way to build confidence in drawing while having fun at the same time. And trust me, there are plenty of characters just as weird and wonderful as this one.

Why You’ll Love This Book

How to Draw: Food Monsters is part of my Art Books for Kids series, which is all about making drawing fun and accessible for artists of all ages. The food monsters in this book are weird, wild, and totally original. These aren’t just standard cartoon animals or everyday characters—they’re monsters made out of your favorite foods.

Here’s why this book is a hit with kids, parents, and teachers:

• Easy Step-by-Step Format: Each monster is broken down into six clear steps.
• Original Art: You won’t find these characters anywhere else.
• Encourages Creativity: Kids can add expressions, accessories, and details to make each monster their own.
• Perfect for Ages 5+: Simple enough for young kids, fun enough for everyone.
• Screen-Free Activity: A fun and creative alternative to screen time.

So if today’s lesson on how to draw a Pineapple Monster sparks your creativity, know that there’s an entire book of characters just waiting for you to discover.

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What You’ll Find Inside How to Draw: Food Monsters

This 106-page activity book includes step-by-step guides to draw all sorts of monstrous meals and freaky foods. Some of the characters inside include:

• A one-eyed cheeseburger monster with spider legs
• A grumpy banana with arms and legs
• A twisted pretzel creature
• A slice of pizza with attitude
• A broccoli beast
• An ice cream cone monster
• And of course, the infamous Pineapple Monster

Each page provides a simple layout that breaks down the character into basic shapes and lines, helping kids learn the fundamentals of cartoon drawing in a way that feels fun and doable.

Draw 50 Food Monsters

Build Drawing Skills While Having Fun

Learning how to draw a Pineapple Monster isn’t just silly fun (though it definitely is that!)—it’s also a great way for kids to build real drawing skills. As they follow along with the step-by-step format, they’re also practicing:

• Shape recognition
• Line control
• Spatial awareness
• Character design basics
• Emotional expression through facial features

Drawing goofy monsters like these makes it easier for kids to experiment, make mistakes, and try new ideas without pressure. It encourages storytelling, imaginative thinking, and a sense of creative freedom that often gets lost in more rigid art lessons.

Continue the Food Monster Fun

If you enjoyed learning how to draw a Pineapple Monster, the fun doesn’t have to stop here! How to Draw: Food Monsters is available now and packed with 50 total characters for you to draw. Whether you’re into drawing burgers, bananas, or just love creating strange new creatures, this book gives you tons of inspiration and guidance.

And this title is just one part of my growing Art Books for Kids series. From Trace Then Color books to Draw by Grid challenges, each book is designed to help kids build skills while expressing themselves through art. Every title features original characters, silly humor, and clear instructions.

Free Video Drawing Tutorial:

Ready to Draw Your Next Monster?

Now that you’ve learned how to draw a Pineapple Monster, take what you’ve learned and try creating your own food-inspired creatures! What would a cookie monster (not that one) look like? How about a taco with wings?

And if you want even more ideas and inspiration, check out the full How to Draw: Food Monsters book. It’s a great addition to any kid’s bookshelf or classroom art shelf.

Stay tuned for more free tutorials and new characters, and keep those pencils moving!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Pineapple Monster Easily in 7 Minutes | Beginner All-Ages Art Activity | Food Monsters Drawing Book appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

Today I’m excited to share a free drawing video featuring one of my favorite characters from How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters—a tiny, round, adorable baby monster with a big grin and wobbly legs. If your kids have ever wanted to know how to draw a baby monster, this is a great place to start. The character in the video comes straight from the pages of the book, and I walk you through the full drawing from start to finish.

Like all the tutorials I share, this one is meant to be fun, simple, and accessible to young artists. Whether your child is a seasoned doodler or just beginning to explore drawing, this baby monster is a perfect mix of silly and sweet, with big shapes and easy steps.

So grab some paper and a pencil, hit play on the video below, and follow along with me as I show you how to draw a baby monster—just like the ones in the book!

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters

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About the Book: How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters is one of the most playful titles in my How to Draw series. It features 50 original cartoon monsters that are more goofy than scary—some have two heads, others wear pajamas, and a few even have candy stuck in their fur. The baby monster featured in the video is just one of many lovable creatures waiting inside the book.

Every character in the book is drawn using six simple steps. Kids follow along one step at a time to build each monster from basic shapes—starting with circles and rectangles and gradually layering in details. It’s a confidence-building approach that helps kids learn how to draw a baby monster and so much more.

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The monsters are fun to draw, but they’re also designed to spark imagination. Once your kid has drawn a few, they’ll start inventing their own characters, stories, and personalities to go along with them. That’s the real goal—getting kids excited to create their own world of cute monsters.

What Makes This Book Great for Kids?

This book—and the entire How to Draw series—is built to help kids enjoy the process of drawing. Each page is self-contained, so they can jump in anywhere and start drawing right away. Here are a few reasons why kids (and parents!) love it:

• Simple, 6-Step Instructions
  Each monster is broken down into six clear, easy-to-follow steps. No guesswork, no confusion.
• Silly, Playful Designs
  These aren’t spooky or creepy monsters. They’re colorful, cartoony, and full of personality. Perfect for younger kids.
• Room to Practice
  Every character has its own space to draw right on the page. Kids can trace, sketch, and experiment as they go.
• Creativity Boost
  Once they’ve drawn a few monsters from the book, many kids start inventing their own. It’s a great springboard for creativity.

If you’ve ever watched your child stare at a blank page and not know where to start, this book gives them that first spark. It shows them how to draw a baby monster—and then encourages them to make it their own.

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Draw Along with the Video

The baby monster in today’s video is one of the most popular characters in the book. It’s got a round body, a wide smile, three teeth, and little arms that barely reach its belly. I picked this one for the tutorial because it’s a great intro to the drawing style used throughout the series.

As we go step-by-step, I’ll show your young artist how to use simple shapes and build them into a finished drawing. If they’ve never drawn a monster before, this is a great starting point. If they’ve already been through the book, it’s a fun way to practice alongside me.

Learn To Draw Monsters

Explore the Whole How to Draw Series

If your child enjoys this book, there’s a lot more where it came from. How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters is just one part of my growing collection of Art Books for Kids, and each book is packed with fun, accessible drawing lessons built around a central theme. Some of the others include:

• How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals – 50 animals like turtles, alligators, and giraffes.
• How to Draw: Cartoon Robots – full of wacky bots, techy pets, and robot sidekicks.
• How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff – a magical mix of fantasy and fun.

View All Books

Every book follows the same format: 50 characters, 6 easy steps per drawing, and plenty of room to get creative. And just like with monsters, each book helps your child build skills while having fun. They’re not just learning how to draw a baby monster, they’re learning how to think like an artist.

All of these titles are available now at FirstArtBooks.com and on Amazon, and they make great gifts, classroom resources, or weekend art activities.

Start Drawing Today

If your child has ever asked how to draw a baby monster, now’s their chance to find out. Watch the video together, pause as needed, and let them enjoy every step of bringing this little monster to life. Then check out the full book for more adorable creatures they can draw all on their own.

I’ve had so much fun creating this series, and I love hearing from families and teachers who use these books in their classrooms and at home. Drawing is one of the best ways for kids to express themselves—and sometimes, the best way to start is with a goofy little baby monster and a pencil.

Book Details

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Baby Monster in 7 Minutes | From The Fun Kids Art Activity Book How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

Ready to draw your favorite nunchuck-swinging turtle? In today’s free video tutorial, I’m showing you how to draw Michelangelo—yes, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle himself. If your kid’s into pizza-loving, sewer-dwelling heroes, they’re going to love this one.

This drawing is totally kid-friendly and drawn in my usual silly cartoon style. I walk you through every step slowly and clearly, making it easy for young artists to follow along.

And while Michelangelo isn’t one of the characters in my Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals book, this video fits right in with the kind of weird, wild, and wonderfully mutated animals you’ll find inside the pages of that book. After all, what are the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles if not the original mutant animal cartoon crew?

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals

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About the Book: Draw by Grid – Mutant Animals

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals is one of my weirdest and funniest books—and that’s saying something. Every drawing in the book uses a simple grid system to help kids create their own versions of hilarious mutant creatures, one square at a time.

These aren’t your average animals. This book is packed with:

• A sheep with 4 arms
• A cycloptic pig
• A horse/bird hybrid
• A 6-armed cat creature
• …and dozens more strange and silly animal mashups

It’s a great companion to this free video, where we walk through how to draw Michelangelo, because the focus in both is the same—drawing funny characters with personality.

Kids who love the Turtles will get a kick out of this book because it taps into that same kind of energy: action, humor, and creative design all mashed together.

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What Makes the “Draw by Grid” Series Different?

This series is all about making drawing fun and accessible for kids. Each page features a goofy character broken down into a simple grid format. That means your child doesn’t have to worry about getting everything “right” all at once. Instead, they can focus on one square at a time, slowly building their drawing in a way that feels easy and achievable.

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals is especially fun because it breaks all the rules of the animal kingdom. In this book, anything goes. Extra limbs? Go for it. Eye patches? Absolutely. Wings, horns, weird fur patterns, teeth where they shouldn’t be—yes, yes, and yes.

If your kid had fun learning how to draw Michelangelo in the video, they’re going to love drawing these ridiculous animal hybrids too.

Why Drawing Mutant Animals Is a Hit With Kids

There’s something super satisfying about drawing weird creatures. Kids don’t have to follow the same old rules, and that opens the door to real creativity.

In this book, I’ve designed each character to look wild and funny, but not complicated. They’re goofy and expressive, not overly detailed or intimidating. That balance makes it perfect for young artists who want to create cool things without getting overwhelmed.

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Plus, mutant animals spark storytelling. Your kid might start with the drawing, but don’t be surprised if they end up naming their creature, giving it a backstory, and imagining whole worlds where these characters live. It all starts with putting pencil to paper.

And after they try this video and learn how to draw Michelangelo, you may find them inventing their own turtle-like creatures—maybe even a pizza-loving platypus with a shell?

Designed for Kids Ages 6 and Up (But Fun for Everyone)

The Draw by Grid format works well for artists of all skill levels, but it really shines for kids ages 6 and up. The gridded pages help build spatial awareness, improve focus, and teach kids how to translate what they see into what they draw.

It also teaches patience—something every artist needs. Completing one of these pages feels like a mini achievement, and the results always bring a smile.

Even if your kid is just starting out, they’ll feel successful working through this book. And the more they draw, the more their confidence grows.

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Drawing at Home, in Classrooms, or on the Go

This series is designed to be used anywhere. All you need is a pencil and a flat surface. There’s no mess, no apps, no batteries required—just good, creative fun.

Try the free video where I show you how to draw Michelangelo, then grab a copy of Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals and keep the momentum going. Whether your child is working at the kitchen table, on a road trip, or in an art class, this book is easy to bring along and hard to put down.

Try the Video, Then Dive Into the Book

I always love sharing these video freebies because they give you a real taste of what drawing with me is like. If your child enjoys drawing Michelangelo, they’re going to love the mutant animal madness waiting inside the book.

The grid system in Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals makes it easy for kids to follow along, and the silly characters make it irresistible to keep going. This isn’t just drawing—it’s play, imagination, and storytelling all rolled into one.

So give the video a try. See what your kid thinks. And if they love learning how to draw Michelangelo, they’re absolutely going to love drawing their own army of mutant animals next.

Get Started!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw Michelangelo from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 8 Minutes | Fun Drawing Video For Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’re anything like me, unicorns never go out of style. They’re magical, fun to draw, and loved by kids of all ages. That’s why I’m excited to share my newest video drawing tutorial—How to Draw A Unicorn—featuring one of the sweet characters straight from my book How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff.

In the video, I’ll show you how to draw a whimsical cartoon unicorn with a flowing purple mane and tail. Like all the characters in the book, this unicorn is drawn in 6 easy-to-follow steps, so even younger artists can follow along and feel proud of their finished drawing.

If your kids have ever begged you to teach them how to draw a unicorn, this video is a great place to start.

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About the Book: How to Draw—Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff

This unicorn is one of 50 characters included in How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff, a drawing book that’s packed with magical creatures and charming designs. If your child loves fantasy and all things sparkly and cute, this is one of my most popular books for a reason.

The “How to Draw” series is all about breaking things down step by step. Every character in the book is shown in six clear drawing steps. Your child just follows along and adds a little bit at a time until the full picture comes together.

Besides unicorns, the book includes a wide variety of characters to draw, like:

• Mermaids
• Cute animals
• Smiling Food
• Happy Desserts
• Cheerful Flowers
  …and tons more “other cute stuff.”

It’s perfect for creative kids who love making up their own stories, drawing their favorite characters, or filling their sketchbooks with fun doodles.

Why Unicorns Are Always a Favorite

There’s a reason kids always want to learn how to draw a unicorn. Unicorns combine everything kids love—magic, color, animals, and fantasy. They’re the ultimate cute creature, and they leave a lot of room for creativity. Want a rainbow mane? Go for it. Golden hooves? Sure. Wings, sparkles, stars, hearts? Add them all.

In the video tutorial, the unicorn has a soft, friendly face and a pastel purple mane and tail. It’s an easy design that’s fun to draw but still full of personality. Even kids who are just getting into drawing will be able to follow along with each step.

What I love most about unicorns is how much personality kids bring to them. They’ll often add their own flair to the horn, eyes, colors, or background. That’s exactly what these tutorials and books are designed for: sparking creativity while building confidence.

Video Tutorial:

About the “How to Draw” Series

How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff is part of a much bigger collection of drawing books I’ve created over the years. The whole series is designed for kids, especially those who want to learn to draw but don’t know where to start.

Each book features 50 original characters, all drawn in six simple steps. They’re all hand-drawn by me, and every design is created with young artists in mind. That means big shapes, friendly faces, and designs that kids want to draw.

Other books in the series include cartoon monsters, animals, food with faces, and more. They’re all structured the same way so kids can follow along at their own pace and feel successful at every step.

But this one—Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff—is definitely one of the most magical in the bunch.

Why This Book Is a Hit with Creative Kids

Here are a few reasons why kids (and parents) love this book:

• Themed Variety: From mermaids and unicorns to smiling cupcakes and potted plants, the variety keeps kids coming back for more.
• Easy-to-Follow Steps: Each drawing only takes 6 steps, and the layout is simple and clutter-free.
• Encourages Imagination: Once kids learn how to draw a unicorn, they start thinking about where that unicorn lives, what friends it has, and what happens next.
• Screen-Free Fun: It’s a quiet, focused activity that gives kids a break from screens while still feeling engaging.
• Confidence Boosting: Even beginners feel accomplished when they complete a drawing on their own.

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Ready to Learn How to Draw A Unicorn?

If your child has ever asked you how to draw a unicorn, this tutorial and book are a perfect pair. The video gives them a chance to follow along in real time, and the book is there for when they’re ready to keep going.

Drawing isn’t just about making something look “good”—it’s about trying something new, making it your own, and having fun in the process. This unicorn (with her purple mane and tail) is just the start. Once your kids learn how to draw one unicorn, they’ll be eager to fill their pages with all kinds of magical creatures.

So sharpen those pencils and get ready—this is going to be a fun one!

Get Started

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: Learn How to Draw A Unicorn in 7 Minutes | Cute Drawing Activity For Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’ve been following along with my Shape Drawing Challenge video series, then you’re in for a treat. The third video in the series is here, and in this one, I take a single, simple shape and turn it into three completely different characters: a cuddly alien, a cheerful robot, and a fire-breathing dragon! These quick, creative sketches are a fun way to show just how far you can stretch your imagination using just one shape.

This challenge is all about creativity, thinking outside the box, and having fun while drawing. Each transformation happens in real-time as I draw on camera, talking through my ideas and how I use the shape as a foundation. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a fresh drawing exercise to try with your kids, the challenge in this shape drawing book for kids is a great place to start.

Shape Drawing Challenge Book

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What Is the Shape Drawing Challenge?

The Shape Drawing Challenge is an art exercise where you start with a simple shape—like a blob, a square, or a squiggle—and turn it into multiple characters or objects. It’s a fantastic way for kids to train their creative thinking skills, and for adults to playfully loosen up their drawing hand.

This challenge in this shape drawing book for kids is especially fun because there’s no right or wrong answer. The only rule is: use the shape! It can be flipped, rotated, stretched, or twisted, but that shape has to be visible in the final character or object you create. It’s part puzzle, part art challenge, and all fun.

The Shape Drawing Book for Kids

If you and your kids are enjoying the videos, the good news is: there’s a whole book based on this idea. The Shape Drawing Challenge book is a companion to the video series and packed with even more inspiration. It includes 16 different shapes with enough drawing pages for you to draw up to 480 different things and characters!

This Shape Drawing Book for Kids is designed to spark creativity and boost confidence. It’s especially great for kids who love to draw but sometimes get stuck wondering what to draw. With a shape already on the page, it gives them a starting point—and from there, the possibilities are endless.

Whether they draw a robot, a slice of pizza, or a sleepy dragon, they’ll be flexing their imagination with every page. Some shapes are easy, some are challenging, but each one is designed to kickstart the creative process.

What Makes This Book Special?

As with all of my drawing books, the art in this book is hand-drawn by me—Kevin Coulston. I wanted the book to feel playful, imaginative, and inviting, so every page was created with young artists in mind. The prompts are open-ended, and kids can interpret them however they want.

The pages are large and printed with bold, clear shapes. There’s room to sketch, doodle, and let your ideas run wild. And since there are no instructions telling kids what to draw, it’s a pure creativity booster.

Here’s why this Shape Drawing Book for Kids is a favorite:

• It inspires storytelling: What kind of creature is that weird shape turning into?
• It builds confidence: There’s no wrong way to complete a page.
• It’s screen-free fun: All you need is a pencil, some imagination, and the book.
• It’s great for solo or group use: Perfect for quiet time, classroom activities, or family drawing night.

Get The Book!

The Series

The Shape Drawing Challenge book is part of a growing family of creative drawing activity books I’ve designed for kids ages 5 and up. While some of my other series—like How to Draw, Trace Then Color, and Draw by Grid—focus on step-by-step skill-building, this one is more about wild creativity and less about perfect results.

It’s great as a warm-up before a more structured drawing session or as a fun, low-pressure way to practice drawing when you’re just getting started.

Try It Yourself

If you haven’t already watched the video, give it a look with your kids. Grab a pencil and see what kinds of characters you can create from a single shape. After you’re done, grab the book and keep the creativity going with even more shapes and surprises.

The Shape Drawing Challenge is one of the most flexible and fun drawing exercises I’ve ever made. It gets you drawing without overthinking, and every page can lead to something totally unexpected.

So sharpen your pencils, open your mind, and start sketching. The next silly monster or space dog might be hiding inside that weird little squiggle.

Get this shape drawing book for kids and more at FirstArtBooks.com

Get Started Today

The post Video Drawing Tutorial: Shape Drawing Challenge #3 | Turn 1 Shape into 3 Characters | Shape Drawing Book for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’ve ever wondered how to draw a robot dog, you’re in for a treat. In today’s post, I’m showcasing a free video tutorial that walks you through the step-by-step process of drawing a fun, mechanical pup straight out of my book How to Draw: Cartoon Robots. This one’s got personality, gears, antennae ears, and all the charm you’d expect from a futuristic best friend.

As always, everything in the book—and in this video—is hand-drawn by me, Kevin Coulston. I’ve packed this title with all sorts of imaginative characters that blur the line between metal and cute, and this robot dog is one of my favorites.

How to Draw: Cartoon Robots

A Perfect Introduction to Drawing Robots

Let’s talk a little about the idea behind How to Draw: Cartoon Robots. I wanted this book to serve as a fun entry point into the world of mechanical creativity. Drawing a robot gives kids the freedom to think outside the box—literally. When you’re drawing something mechanical, there’s no “wrong” way to design a knee, a head, or a tail. That’s what makes how to draw a robot dog so exciting. It’s not about replicating something from nature—it’s about inventing.

In the book, I break each drawing down into six easy-to-follow steps. Whether it’s a towering robo-warrior or a tin can dog with a bone-shaped antenna, the format stays consistent. Step-by-step, kids go from a few simple shapes to a fully realized cartoon character.

The robot dog in today’s free video comes straight from one of those pages. With just a pencil, some paper, and a little imagination, you’ll have your own mechanical mutt in minutes.

Why Kids Love Drawing Robot Dogs

Drawing animals is already fun. Now imagine if those animals had gears for joints and lightbulbs for tails. That’s the appeal. When kids learn how to draw a robot dog, they get to combine what they know about real animals with all the “what-ifs” of science fiction.

What if the dog could shoot sparks when it barks? What if it had solar panels on its back? What if its legs looked like springs?

These kinds of ideas open doors for creative problem-solving and storytelling. And that’s one of the things I love most about creating books like this. It’s not just about teaching drawing—it’s about giving kids the tools to invent their own worlds.

And while we’re on the subject—how to draw a robot dog isn’t just for kids. I’ve had plenty of grown-ups tell me they love jumping into these books too. There’s something universally fun about combining cute characters with sci-fi tech.

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The “How to Draw” Series

This book is part of my larger “How to Draw” series, which features tons of fun themes—from monsters to mermaids to animals and more. Each book follows the same structure: 50 original characters, each drawn in six steps.

I created this series with beginners in mind, but I’ve found that kids of all skill levels enjoy them. The goal is always to make drawing feel accessible and rewarding. Even if a kid has never picked up a pencil to draw before, they can open one of these books and create something they’re proud of by the end of page one.

And because I draw every single character myself, the style is consistent across all the pages. There are no AI-generated elements or reused clipart—just hand-drawn characters from start to finish.

How to draw a robot dog is just one example of the fun you can have with a pencil and a few easy steps.

Why Step-by-Step Drawing Works

I’ve been making drawing books for years now—over 70 and counting. And I’ve found that when you show kids exactly how to build a character from the ground up, they build confidence fast.

The six-step format is simple, but effective:

1. Start with basic shapes.
2. Add details gradually.
3. Build symmetry and proportion.
4. Round out with expressive features.
5. Ink it if you want.
6. Color and personalize!

By the time they finish drawing that last step, most kids are eager to draw it again, this time adding their own twist. Maybe the robot dog ends up with rocket boosters. Maybe it’s holding a wrench. Maybe it has a fishbowl helmet.

This kind of creative remixing is what makes drawing such a great skill for kids to develop. And learning how to draw a robot dog is a great way to start.

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Watch the Video – Draw Along With Me

In the video, I walk through each step in real-time so anyone can follow along. I talk about why I draw each shape the way I do, and I offer tips on how to personalize your character as you go.

The robot dog design is a small, chubby little guy with round limbs and a faceplate that looks kind of like a puppy’s snout. He’s got an antenna sticking out of his head and a tail that might double as a wrench.

Like everything else in the book, he’s got plenty of character and just enough tech detail to make him look like he walked straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon set in the future.

If your child wants to learn how to draw a robot dog, this is the perfect place to begin.

Building Confidence Through Art

Drawing is more than just a fun hobby—it’s a powerful way for kids to build confidence, patience, and creativity. Every time a child finishes a drawing, they’re reminded that they can create something from nothing. That’s a big deal.

When I made How to Draw: Cartoon Robots, I wanted every character to feel like something a kid could be proud of. That’s why I keep the steps clear and the characters playful.

Robot dogs, especially, are a favorite. They’re expressive, they’re full of movement, and they offer plenty of room for creativity. Once you’ve mastered how to draw a robot dog, the next logical step is inventing your own.

What does a robot cat look like? A robot hamster? A robot giraffe on wheels?

The possibilities are endless—and that’s exactly the point.

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Final Thoughts

If your kid is curious about drawing, this book is a great place to start. It’s all about imaginative characters, step-by-step progress, and the freedom to personalize every page.

And if your child has ever wanted to know how to draw a robot dog, now’s their chance to give it a go with a video that walks them through it every step of the way.

As always, I’m proud to share this new freebie and character from How to Draw: Cartoon Robots. I hope you and your kids have as much fun drawing him as I did creating him.

Learn to Draw

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Robot Dog in 7 Minutes | Learn to Draw Cartoon Robots | Fun All-Ages Art Activity appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

How to Draw A Yeti – Featuring How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters

I’ve been drawing silly creatures and goofy faces for as long as I can remember, so working on How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters was a real treat. This book brings together 50 original monster designs—each hand-drawn by me—and offers step-by-step instructions that break down every character into easy-to-follow stages. And today, I’m excited to share a brand-new video tutorial showing How to Draw A Yeti, a character straight from the pages of this book.

If you’ve got a kid who’s constantly doodling monsters in the margins of their homework, or if you’re an adult looking for a fun and creative outlet, How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters is a great place to start. The book is designed to be accessible, lighthearted, and most importantly, fun. Whether you’re a total beginner or a young artist just starting out, each page is laid out to help you go from a blank page to a fully finished cartoon character—like our yeti—without getting overwhelmed.

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters

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What’s Inside the Book

In How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters, you’ll find a wide variety of imaginative creatures—from mischievous gremlins to one-eyed blob monsters and cheerful ghouls. Each one has its own quirky personality and unique features. Some are furry, some are scaly, and a few have more eyeballs than you’d expect—but all of them are cute in their own weird little way.

Every drawing in the book follows the same structured format:

• Six simple steps per character
• Clean, uncluttered layout for focus
• Progression from basic shapes to final details

Each page is designed to build confidence and make the drawing process feel achievable, especially for kids or anyone new to cartooning.

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Let’s Talk About the Yeti

One of my favorite characters in the book is the yeti. It’s a classic creature, but I gave mine a softer, more cartoonish spin. Think tall and slender, puffy pink fur, fluffy legs, and a cute simple face that gives him a friendly vibe instead of a scary one.

In today’s video tutorial, I’ll walk you through How to Draw A Yeti from scratch. The design follows the exact steps found in the book, so whether you’re watching the video or flipping through the page in your copy, you’ll be able to draw along with confidence.

If you’ve ever wondered How to Draw A Yeti without making it too complicated or intimidating, this tutorial is a great place to jump in.

Watch The Tutorial Here:

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Why Drawing Monsters Is So Much Fun

I think monster characters are one of the most freeing things to draw. There are no rules—monsters don’t have to look realistic. You can give them two heads, ten arms, or a tail made of spaghetti if you want. That kind of freedom makes them perfect for young artists who are still figuring out their style.

In my experience, books like How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters help kids build their drawing skills in a way that’s imaginative and playful. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about having fun while you learn.

When a kid picks up a pencil and follows the steps for How to Draw A Yeti, they’re not just drawing—they’re learning how to observe, break complex things into simpler parts, and follow a creative process all the way through to the end.

And best of all, they’re learning that their ideas matter. Because once they’ve drawn my yeti, it’s not a big leap to draw their own yeti. Maybe one with headphones. Or roller skates. Or a tutu.

That’s the magic of monster drawing.

Get The Book!

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About the How to Draw Series

This book is part of my ongoing How to Draw series, which includes a variety of themed drawing books—each one focusing on a different type of subject. Some books are packed with aliens and robots. Others dive into animals, dinosaurs, or fantasy creatures like mermaids and unicorns. But no matter the theme, the format stays consistent: hand-drawn characters, easy-to-follow steps, and an emphasis on creativity over perfection.

As the illustrator and author of every title in the series, I put a lot of thought into making these books approachable and fun. I want kids to feel like they can sit down with a pencil and start drawing without feeling like they’re doing it “wrong.” If you’ve ever looked at an art book and felt overwhelmed by too much technical jargon or complicated techniques, that’s exactly what I’m trying to avoid here.

Every character I draw is created with a kid in mind. I ask myself: What would be fun to draw? What would make a young artist laugh, or feel proud of their work? That’s how you end up with a whole page dedicated to How to Draw A Yeti with a big grin and oversized feet.

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A Few Drawing Tips for Kids (and Adults)

1. Start Light – Use a pencil and draw lightly when sketching the basic shapes. You can go over everything later once you’re happy with your lines.
2. Take Your Time – Don’t rush. Each step builds on the last, and it’s okay to pause and make adjustments.
3. Make It Yours – Once you’re comfortable following the steps, start customizing your characters. Add accessories, change facial expressions, or invent your own creatures.
4. Practice Makes Progress – The more you draw, the more confident you’ll become. And books like How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters are meant to be drawn in over and over again.
5. Have Fun With It – If you’re laughing while drawing a silly monster with googly eyes and mismatched feet, you’re doing it right.

Let’s Draw!

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Final Thoughts on Drawing the Yeti

Drawing is one of those skills that grows with you the more you use it. And sometimes, learning How to Draw A Yeti is just the first step in discovering a lifelong love for making art. Whether your child is an aspiring illustrator, or you’re an adult looking to reconnect with your creative side, this book offers a pressure-free way to sit down, grab a pencil, and just enjoy the process.

I hope today’s video tutorial gives you a fun introduction to what the book has to offer. The yeti is just one of 50 characters you’ll find inside, and each one is designed to bring a smile to your face while helping you build real drawing skills.

If you’ve been looking for a drawing book that’s playful, approachable, and packed with personality, How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Monsters is a great choice. And if you’ve ever wanted to know How to Draw A Yeti, now you’ve got the perfect starting point.

Thanks for reading—and happy drawing!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Yeti | From the Cute Cartoon Monsters Drawing Book for Kids | Free Tutorial appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’re on the lookout for something truly fun, weird, and creative to draw, my latest video tutorial is for you. In this one, I’m showing you how to draw an alien astronaut, step by step. The character comes straight out of my book How to Draw: Silly Aliens, and it’s just one of the many goofy extraterrestrials you’ll find in there. If your kids love aliens, space, and silly faces, this is a drawing they’re going to enjoy.

The alien astronaut is a great mix of science fiction and cartoon comedy. He’s got a bubble helmet, stubby limbs, and a big goofy smile—because who says astronauts can’t be silly? With just a pencil and a little imagination, you’ll bring this space explorer to life.

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About the Book: How to Draw: Silly Aliens

How to Draw: Silly Aliens is part of my ongoing “How to Draw” series, designed to make learning to draw fun and easy for kids. This book is packed with 50 original alien characters, each one more ridiculous and expressive than the last. They’re full of personality—some are friendly, some are odd, and some look like they came from the farthest reaches of the universe.

Each character in the book is broken down into a series of simple steps that build up gradually to the final drawing. The idea is to keep kids engaged, not frustrated. Whether they’re new to drawing or already filling notebooks with doodles, this book gives them the confidence to try new things and develop their own style.

The alien astronaut featured in today’s video is a great example of what this book offers. He’s got just enough detail to be interesting, but he’s not overwhelming for beginners. Like all the characters in the book, he was designed to be fun to draw, not intimidating.

Why Learn How to Draw an Alien Astronaut?

Learning how to draw an alien astronaut is more than just a fun activity—it’s a great creative challenge. You get to think about how aliens might look, how they might dress, and what kind of gear they’d need to explore space. It’s a chance to stretch your imagination while practicing drawing skills.

Plus, this character is a great blend of familiar and unfamiliar. Kids recognize the basic shape of an astronaut, but adding alien features—like antennae, extra arms, or strange space suits—gives them the freedom to make it their own. Drawing this kind of character helps build creativity and problem-solving skills.

And let’s be honest—it’s just fun to draw aliens.

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The “How to Draw” Series

This book is one of many in my “How to Draw” series. These books are all about making drawing approachable. Every page includes step-by-step guides that walk kids through the drawing process in a way that feels doable and encouraging.

The subjects vary—some books are full of animals, others focus on mythical creatures, robots, or even food-based characters. But the core idea is the same: give kids the tools to build their skills while sparking their imagination. If they love cartoons and storytelling, these books give them the foundation to create their own characters.

The alien astronaut is just one example. The series includes all kinds of characters, scenes, and creatures designed to appeal to kids’ sense of humor and curiosity. The goal is to keep them drawing—and having fun while they do it.

What Makes These Books Different?

There are a lot of drawing books out there, but here’s what sets mine apart:

• Original Characters – I design every character myself, from scratch. That means you’re not just learning how to copy popular cartoons—you’re learning how to draw unique, imaginative characters you won’t find anywhere else.
• Built for Kids – The steps are clear, the instructions are simple, and the tone is encouraging. I write and illustrate with young artists in mind.
• Designed for Progress – The books start with easier characters and gradually introduce more complex shapes and poses, so kids grow their skills as they go.
• Perfect for Short Drawing Sessions – Each drawing can be completed in a short session, making it easy to fit in a little creativity during the day.

When your kid learns how to draw an alien astronaut, they’re learning more than how to draw a single character. They’re developing artistic confidence, trying new ideas, and building the foundation for their own creative adventures.

Get Started Today

A Great Starting Point

If your child has ever looked at a blank page and said, “I don’t know what to draw,” these books are the perfect solution. The characters are quirky, the steps are manageable, and there’s a strong sense of accomplishment that comes from finishing a drawing that looked tricky at first.

The alien astronaut in today’s tutorial is a great introduction. The helmet, suit, and alien features are just challenging enough to keep things interesting—but not so hard that it becomes frustrating. Plus, when they’re done, they’ve got a cool, original cartoon they can color, decorate, and show off.

Watch The Video Tutorial Here:

More Than Just Drawing

Learning how to draw an alien astronaut also ties into broader skills:

• Observation – Noticing shapes and how they fit together.
• Spatial Awareness – Understanding where lines and features go on a page.
• Focus and Patience – Following steps in order to complete a task.
• Creative Expression – Making design choices and adding personal touches.

These are valuable skills, especially for kids who love to explore ideas visually. Drawing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to think.

Final Thoughts

If your kids are into aliens, space, or silly characters, this is the perfect drawing project to get them excited about creating. The alien astronaut is a great blend of fun and challenge, and it’s just one of the many characters waiting for them in How to Draw: Silly Aliens.

Check out the new video drawing tutorial and follow along. It’s a great way to introduce kids to drawing, spark their creativity, and maybe even inspire them to invent their own alien space crew. Once they learn how to draw an alien astronaut, the sky (or the galaxy) is the limit.

Keep drawing, keep creating—and have fun doing it.

Book Details

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw an Alien Astronaut in 8 Minutes | Step-by-Step Drawing | Fun All Ages Art Activity appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If you’ve ever wondered how to spark a child’s creativity with just a simple shape, the Shape Drawing Challenge book is one of the most engaging ways to do just that. In my newest video from the ongoing shape drawing challenge series, I take one simple shape and turn it into three completely different characters: an elephant, a dinosaur, and an alien. While the video shows just a glimpse of what’s possible, the real value comes from the Shape Drawing Challenge book itself—designed to help kids draw with shapes and stretch their creative problem-solving abilities in unexpected ways.

Book Details

What Makes This Book Different?

The Shape Drawing Challenge is not your typical step-by-step drawing guide. Instead of showing how to draw a specific character or object from the beginning, each page presents a unique shape. That’s it—just a shape. The challenge for the artist is to draw with shapes by transforming that one abstract form into a complete drawing. Whether it turns into an animal, a monster, a robot, or a slice of pizza is completely up to the artist.

This structure encourages lateral thinking and makes it fun for kids to engage their imaginations in a low-pressure way. There are no right or wrong answers here—only creative solutions.

Why Kids Love to Draw with Shapes

Most drawing books are about instruction, teaching a kid how to recreate a specific picture. And while that’s a useful skill, there’s something uniquely exciting about open-ended creativity. When kids draw with shapes, they’re not just learning how to draw—they’re learning how to see.

That triangle isn’t just a triangle. It might be the tooth of a dinosaur, the hat of a wizard, or the tip of a spaceship. A circle might become an eyeball, a planet, or a loaf of bread. This kind of thinking trains the brain to explore options and make connections.

The beauty of this format is how adaptable it is. Younger kids can keep it simple and turn the shape into a smiling face. Older kids (and even adults) can challenge themselves to come up with the most unexpected or hilarious transformation possible.

Draw 480 Things with 16 Shapes!

How the Book Works

The Shape Drawing Challenge book includes 50 different shape-based prompts. Each page has:

• A unique abstract shape
• A space to draw your creation using that shape as the foundation
• Plenty of room to get creative

There’s no step-by-step guidance, no example to copy, and no suggested answer. This is pure creative expression from start to finish. When you draw with shapes, you’re training your mind to look at things differently.

This format is great for quiet time, classroom art projects, group challenges, or just sitting around the kitchen table with a box of pencils and a curious imagination.

More Than Just a Drawing Book

One of the biggest benefits of encouraging kids to draw with shapes is how it strengthens key cognitive skills:

• Creative problem-solving: What can I turn this shape into?
• Visual reasoning: How do lines, angles, and curves relate to familiar objects?
• Confidence-building: There’s no wrong answer, so kids feel more free to try.
• Artistic expression: Every page becomes a personal creation.

These aren’t just fun art exercises—they’re little puzzles that help children think in creative and flexible ways. This is especially useful for kids who enjoy art but get frustrated by trying to “get it right.” In this book, “right” doesn’t exist—only “interesting.”

Get Creative Today!

Highlight from the New Video

In the newest video in the shape drawing challenge series, I take one shape and turn it into three imaginative things: an elephant, a dinosaur, and an alien. Watching the process play out in real-time gives a sense of how varied the results can be when you choose to draw with shapes instead of following a set of steps.

These types of videos give kids a taste of what they can do with a little imagination and an open-ended prompt. The goal isn’t to copy exactly what I do—it’s to get inspired and see just how flexible creative thinking can be.

This aligns with what the book is all about. Every child will come up with something different. A jellybean-shaped blob might become a balloon, a submarine, or a dancing blobfish. And that’s what makes it fun.

Watch Here:

Part of a Larger Mission

The Shape Drawing Challenge book is part of a broader philosophy that fuels all of my drawing books: that every kid can be creative, and that the best way to learn is through play. While other books in my collection focus on specific drawing techniques—like Trace Then Color, How to Draw, or Draw by Grid—this book breaks the mold by focusing entirely on idea generation and playful experimentation.

I’ve seen this book used by:

• Parents looking for screen-free creative activities
• Teachers introducing a fun warm-up activity in art class
• Homeschoolers looking for something unique and hands-on
• Kids who feel stuck or bored with traditional drawing books

In all of those cases, the response has been the same: they love the freedom and fun of being given one shape and being asked, “What could this be?”

A Book That Grows with You

What’s especially exciting about the Shape Drawing Challenge is that it doesn’t age out. Younger kids enjoy it because they can just scribble and invent. Older kids like the challenge of coming up with clever or funny ideas. Even adults have told me they enjoy flipping through and creating alongside their kids.

In that way, this book becomes a creative companion that you can return to again and again, each time seeing the shapes with new eyes. It’s a great tool to boost artistic confidence without pressure or perfectionism.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fresh, creative drawing book that encourages open-ended exploration and visual thinking, then the Shape Drawing Challenge is a great place to start. It’s fun, flexible, and full of surprises.

When you sit down to draw with shapes, you’re doing more than just doodling—you’re opening the door to a whole new way of seeing and creating. Whether the shape turns into a dinosaur, a dancing elephant, or a strange alien from another planet, the act of transforming the abstract into the familiar is where the magic happens.

If you enjoyed the latest video where I took one shape and turned it into three characters—an elephant, a dinosaur, and an alien—just imagine what you could come up with inside the book. The possibilities are endless.

So grab your pencils, open your mind, and draw with shapes.

Get Started Today!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: Shape Drawing Challenge #2 | Turn 1 Shape into 3 Characters | Draw with Shapes appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.