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.

Learn More

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.

If your kids love dinosaurs and robots, they’re going to love this. Today I’m sharing a free video tutorial straight from my book How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs—and the featured character is none other than a Robot T-Rex. It’s a fun, step-by-step drawing activity that’s easy to follow and a great way to introduce kids (or beginners of any age) to cartoon drawing with a mechanical twist.

The robot T-Rex is one of the standout characters from the book: big, bold, full of metal plates, bolts, gears, and of course, tiny robotic arms. In the video, I’ll walk you through how to sketch the entire character from start to finish using a simple, beginner-friendly approach. All you need is a pencil and some paper.

Whether you’re just curious to try drawing a robot t-rex or you’re thinking about picking up the full book, this free video is a great place to start.

Get The Book!

About the Book: How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs

The Robot T-Rex is just one of 50 unique characters you’ll find in the book How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs. Every single page in the book walks you through a brand-new mechanical dino—each one designed to be fun, creative, and easy to draw, even if you’re just starting out.

The book combines two of the most loved themes for young artists: dinosaurs and robots. That means jet-boosted raptors, laser-eyed stegosaurs, mech-style triceratops, and plenty of wild hybrid creatures that look like they walked right out of a sci-fi movie set in prehistoric times.

I designed this book for beginners, especially kids around age 5 and up, but I’ve heard from teens and even adults who really enjoy it. The steps are clear, the drawings build from basic shapes, and the robot details are the kind that invite creative thinking. You can follow the book as-is or start customizing your own versions with different colors, armor plates, or extra gadgets.

What Makes How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs a Good Fit?

Here are a few things that make this book work for beginner artists:

• Step-by-Step Drawing Guides – Each robot dinosaur starts with basic shapes and builds up in manageable steps.
• Focus on Creativity – Kids can follow the instructions or remix designs to invent their own robot species.
• Accessible for Beginners – No fancy tools needed. Just a pencil, some paper, and a little imagination.
• Good for All Ages – Designed for kids, but totally enjoyable for older beginners who like dinosaurs, science fiction, or cartoon drawing.

It’s a fun way to build confidence, practice observation and line control, and get in some screen-free time.

How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs

Why Robot Dinosaurs?

There’s something about robot dinosaurs that just clicks. They feel like action figures brought to life. The mix of organic dinosaur shapes with mechanical textures, armor, and moving parts gives you a lot of room to get creative without needing to be technically perfect.

And for younger kids, it’s a great introduction to the idea of “design.” When they draw a robot T-Rex, they’re not just copying a picture—they’re thinking about how the parts work together: legs, tail, gears, maybe even some jet boosters or claws. That kind of imaginative thinking makes drawing a lot more fun.

Use It for Art Time, Quiet Time, or Even Group Activities

How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs works well as a solo activity or as something you do with a group. If you’re a parent, teacher, or homeschooler, you can use a drawing or two as a fun break or part of a larger creative project. You might even try a “robot dinosaur design challenge” where each kid adds their own twist to one of the characters.

Some families use books like this for rainy-day projects, birthday party stations, or just creative screen-free time during the week.

What Comes After the Robot T-Rex?

After your child draws the Robot T-Rex from the video, they can keep going with more:

• Robotic Brachiosaurus
• Rocket-powered Velociraptor
• Armored Ankylosaurus
• Mecha-Pterodactyl
• …and dozens more

Each one is a new chance to draw something fun and build drawing skills without the pressure of getting things “perfect.”

Book Details

Part of a Bigger Collection

If you’ve tried any of my other books before, you’ll know that this one follows the same format: step-by-step characters, beginner-friendly guides, and a clear focus on themes that kids already love. This is one of several themed drawing books in the “How to Draw” series, and there’s always more on the way.

See All Books

Try the Robot T-Rex, Then Grab the Full Book

If you haven’t watched the free video yet, scroll back up and give it a try. You’ll see how the drawing comes together one step at a time—and if your child enjoys that, they’ll probably love exploring the other robot dinosaurs in the full book.

You can find How to Draw: Robot Dinosaurs on Amazon and FirstArtBooks.com. It makes a great creative gift, a fun weekend project, or just something different to try instead of another screen.

Thanks for stopping by—and happy drawing! Let me know if you end up customizing your robot T-Rex or inventing your own versions. I always love seeing what kids (and grownups) come up with when they take the basics and run with them.

Learn More

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The post Free Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw a Robot T-Rex | Step-by-Step Drawing | Draw a Robot Tyrannosaurus Rex appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

From How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures, and More

If you’re looking for an easy and enjoyable drawing activity for kids, I’ve got a free step-by-step drawing page to share today. It comes straight from my book How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures, and More, and it features a tropical fish character that’s simple, colorful, and fun to create.

This page walks kids through 6 easy-to-follow steps. It starts with basic shapes and adds one small element at a time, making the process feel manageable—especially for beginner artists. By the final step, they’ll have a finished cartoon-style fish that’s bright, bold, and full of character.

All you need is a pencil, some paper, and a few minutes of quiet drawing time. Once they’ve completed the freebie, kids can jump right into the full book, which is packed with more sea creatures just like this one.

Book Details

Inside the Book: How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures, and More

This book is part of my beginner-friendly drawing series, and it focuses entirely on creatures from the ocean—real and imagined. If your child enjoys sea life, this is a great way to turn that interest into a creative activity.

Inside, you’ll find:

• 50 characters to draw, from tropical fish to sharks, dolphins, jellyfish, sea turtles, crabs, eels, and more.
• Step-by-step instructions on every page, designed specifically for beginners.
• A range of creatures that keep the drawing experience interesting, approachable, and rewarding.

Whether your child is learning at home, taking a break from screens, or just loves to draw, this book is built to give them hours of fun while supporting creative skill development.

How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures…

What Makes This Book a Good Fit for Beginners?

This series is designed with first-time artists in mind. Every page breaks a drawing into small, incremental steps—no skipping ahead or overwhelming instructions. The goal is to help kids build confidence through repetition and success.

Some of the benefits include:

• Clarity – Each new line is shown in a different color, making it easy to see exactly what to do next.
• Pacing – The drawings are neither too simple nor too complex, which means kids stay engaged without getting frustrated.
• Skill building – Each page helps reinforce important early drawing skills like shape recognition, line placement, and proportion.

The book also encourages kids to slow down, focus, and enjoy the process—something that can be valuable in both creative and everyday learning environments.

Sea Creatures Kids Love to Draw

The ocean theme adds variety and excitement to each page. The characters are a mix of realistic sea animals and creative cartoon-style versions, which keeps things fun and lighthearted. You’ll find:

• Playful octopuses and stingrays
• Sharks and dolphins with big personalities
• Gentle giants like whales and sea turtles
• And of course, plenty of bright, tropical fish

These designs give kids a chance to explore facial expressions, movement, and design without needing to be anatomically correct. It’s a great way to foster creativity while still learning how to draw structured characters.

Get The Book!

Designed for Ages 5 to 12 (But Others Might Enjoy It Too)

This book is aimed at ages 5–12, but the content is accessible enough for younger children with some help, and flexible enough for older kids who just want a light, creative activity. It’s also a good fit for classroom art time, at-home enrichment, or travel-friendly quiet time.

Even reluctant drawers tend to engage with these books because the results are immediate and the tone is playful.

Encourages Artistic Independence

One of the strengths of this series is that it encourages independent use. The layout is intuitive, so kids can follow the steps on their own without needing ongoing help from an adult. That gives them a sense of ownership over their finished work and builds self-confidence in their creative ability.

That said, these books can also work well in guided settings—especially for families drawing together or teachers leading an art session.

Learn More

No Special Supplies Required

One of the things I always keep in mind when creating these books is accessibility. You don’t need anything fancy to get started—just paper and a pencil. If kids want to add color afterward, crayons, markers, or colored pencils all work great.

This simplicity makes it easy to fit drawing into everyday life without needing to prep materials or manage messes.

A Good Fit for Gifting, Classrooms, and Art Shelves

How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures, and More is part of a growing collection of drawing books with a wide range of themes. This one fits well as a:

• Gift for kids who enjoy animals or the ocean
• Rainy-day or travel activity
• Screen-free alternative during downtime
• Starter for kids who are new to drawing

It also works well in classroom settings, especially for art enrichment programs or stations focused on skill-building and creativity.

Get The Book Today!

Try the Free Tropical Fish Page First

If you’re curious about the book, I recommend starting with the free drawing page. It’s a good example of the structure and tone you’ll find throughout the book. The tropical fish is cheerful, easy to complete, and makes a great first project for any new young artist.

Once your child has finished the page, it’s easy to move on to new creatures and keep the momentum going.

Free Activity Page (save and print):

In Summary

How to Draw: Fish, Sea Creatures, and More offers:

• 50 ocean-themed characters
• Beginner-friendly step-by-step instructions
• A balanced mix of real animals and creative cartoons
• Easy, screen-free drawing practice
• A gentle, confidence-building approach to learning how to draw

And if you’re just getting started, don’t forget to download the free tropical fish drawing page and give it a try.

Thanks for reading—and happy drawing!

View All 70+ Activity Books

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw a Tropical Fish | 6 Easy Steps | Step-by-Step Drawing Page appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

I’m pleased to share that I’ve recently released three new drawing activity books designed to make learning to draw fun, approachable, and accessible for kids. Each book offers a different type of activity, but all are part of the same mission: to help kids build confidence through drawing.

Here are the three new titles:

• Trace Then Color: Baby Animals
• Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals
• How to Draw: Grumpy Faces

These books are part of my larger series of beginner-friendly activity books. Whether your child enjoys drawing cute animals, strange creatures, or expressive cartoon faces, one of these new releases might be just right for them.

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals is a simple and gentle introduction to drawing, ideal for young children and early learners. Each page features a large outline of a baby animal designed for tracing, followed by space to color it in.

This kind of activity is great for developing motor skills and pencil control. The animals are easy to recognize and fun to color—rabbits, turtles, elephants, and more—all in an approachable, cartoon style. It’s a good fit for ages 3–7, though older kids may also enjoy the low-pressure nature of tracing and coloring.

This activity book works well as a calm, screen-free activity and can help build early drawing confidence without requiring detailed instruction.

Trace Then Color: Baby Animals

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals takes a more structured approach, perfect for kids who like puzzles, imaginative creatures, and a little bit of a challenge. The grid drawing method encourages careful observation and helps kids break complex images into manageable steps.

In this activity book, each drawing starts with a unique “mutant animal” concept—a blend of creatures with unexpected features, like wings, robotic limbs, or extra eyes. The idea is to spark creativity while also practicing proportion and shape recognition through the grid method.

It’s especially well-suited for kids who are already comfortable with basic drawing but want to take their skills further. Grid drawing is a great next step in building visual accuracy and confidence.

Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals

How to Draw: Grumpy Faces

The third new release, How to Draw: Grumpy Faces, is focused entirely on expressions—specifically, characters who aren’t exactly thrilled. From bored and annoyed to full-on grouchy, these cartoon faces are both expressive and fun to draw.

The activity book uses a step-by-step format, starting with basic shapes and guiding the reader through each stage of the drawing process. It’s a great tool for kids who want to create their own cartoon characters or learn how to bring more emotion into their drawings.

This one encourages experimentation too—kids can tweak hairstyles, add accessories, or change features to create original characters. While the theme centers on “grumpy” faces, the actual experience is lighthearted and often funny.

How to Draw: Grumpy Faces

Three Different Activity Books, Three Approaches to Learning

Each of these books supports a slightly different style of learning:

• Trace Then Color is about repetition, control, and early success.
• Draw by Grid teaches observation, proportion, and careful planning.
• How to Draw introduces structure while still allowing room for creativity and character design.

Together, they offer a wide range of options for different ages and skill levels. Whether your child is just starting out or looking for a new way to practice drawing, these books are designed to make the process clear, manageable, and enjoyable.

Part of a Larger Collection

These new releases are part of my larger collection of 70+ activity books across 24+ themes. If you’ve been following my work, you know that I try to offer a variety of drawing formats and subjects so that kids can find something they enjoy—whether it’s unicorns and princesses, robots and aliens, or food monsters and cartoon animals.

All of my activity books are beginner-friendly and focused on making drawing feel fun and doable. They don’t require expensive materials or previous experience—just a pencil, paper, and a little time to explore.

Browse Books

Ideal for Home, Classrooms, or Gifts

Whether you’re looking for screen-free activities at home, something new for your classroom art shelf, or creative birthday gifts, these books make it easy to keep kids engaged and learning. They also work well for independent learners or small group projects.

I’m always working on new themes, so if there’s a particular subject your child enjoys, there’s a good chance you’ll find something that fits—and more coming soon.

Thanks for taking a moment to check out the latest activity books. If you have any questions or want to share how your child is using them, feel free to reach out. I always enjoy seeing how families and teachers are using these books to support creativity and skill-building.

Learn More

You can find all three new books—Trace Then Color: Baby Animals, Draw by Grid: Mutant Animals, and How to Draw: Grumpy Faces—wherever you shop for books online.

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The post Recent Releases! Baby Animals, Grumpy Faces, Mutant Animals | Drawing, Coloring, Tracing, and more! | All-Ages Activity Books appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

If your kids love drawing quirky, imaginative creatures and laughing while they do it, they’re going to love today’s free drawing activity. We’re featuring a fun, free page straight from the book How to Draw: Food Monsters — and this one is sure to make kids giggle. Meet the Macaroni Monster: a silly, wiggly character that looks like a curved piece of macaroni pasta, complete with bug-like legs and a pair of eye stalks popping up from its head!

This free step-by-step macaroni monster activity page is great for beginner artists. The drawing starts with simple shapes and builds up to a complete character that kids will be proud of. All they need is a pencil, paper, and their imagination.

This silly macaroni monster is just one of 50 wild and wacky characters you’ll find in the full How to Draw: Food Monsters book — a drawing book that turns everyday food into creepy, crawly, hilarious cartoon monsters.

What Is How to Draw: Food Monsters?

How to Draw: Food Monsters is a beginner-friendly drawing book filled with characters that combine two things kids already love: food and monsters! From broccoli beasts to creepy cupcakes, every page is a fun twist on familiar foods, drawn with monster features that spark laughter and creativity.

This book is perfect for kids who like their drawings on the goofy side. And it’s especially great for children who enjoy humor, cartoons, or coming up with their own original characters.

Whether your young artist is brand-new to drawing or already loves to sketch, this book makes the creative process approachable, rewarding, and — most of all — fun.

Get The Book

What’s Inside the Book?

Inside How to Draw: Food Monsters, you’ll find:

• 50 unique food-themed monster characters
• Step-by-step drawing instructions for every character
• Beginner-friendly layout using simple shapes and lines
• Tons of ideas to spark creativity and encourage imaginative storytelling

Each drawing begins with basic forms and gradually adds fun monster details — from claws and fangs to eyeballs and tentacles. Characters range from goofy and giggly to slightly spooky (but still kid-friendly, like the free macaroni monster page included in this post!). Whether it’s a three-eyed taco, a slithering spaghetti pile, or a doughnut with teeth, every page brings a new surprise.

Why Kids Love Drawing Food Monsters

Drawing food-themed monsters taps into something magical for young artists. These drawings feel playful, a little weird, and totally creative. Here’s why kids get hooked:

• Relatable Shapes: Starting with everyday foods makes the drawing feel familiar and less intimidating.
• Funny Details: Adding legs, arms, fangs, and silly expressions turns simple food into an imaginative playground.
• Endless Variation: No two food monsters are exactly alike — and kids can remix the ideas to make their own.
• No Rules: These creatures are meant to be fun, not perfect. That means kids feel more relaxed and free while drawing.

Plus, the humor in the characters helps lighten the pressure that some kids feel when trying to “draw something good.” These drawings are meant to be weird, goofy, and one-of-a-kind.

Learn More

Skill-Building Wrapped in Fun

While the characters in How to Draw: Food Monsters are full of jokes and silliness, the book also teaches real drawing techniques along the way. With every drawing, kids learn:

• How to break down complex characters into basic shapes
• How to use lines and curves to build structure
• How to place features like eyes, mouths, and limbs to give characters expression and personality
• How to work step by step and build confidence with each drawing

The process is accessible for ages 5 and up, but older kids and even teens who love quirky cartoons will also enjoy these monsters.

Designed for Creative Kids Who Think Outside the Box

Many beginner drawing books focus on basic animals or objects — and those are great starting points! But How to Draw: Food Monsters offers something different for the child who wants to explore their wild side.

This book encourages kids to imagine what a cheeseburger might look like if it had arms. Or what happens when you give a cookie sharp little teeth. Or how a carton of milk could turn into a grumpy creature stomping through the kitchen.

It’s perfect for kids who love comics, cartoons, or character design. It even works as a fun drawing warm-up for aspiring animators or illustrators who want to stretch their imagination.

How to Draw: Food Monsters

Who This Book Is For

• Kids ages 5–12, or anyone new to drawing
• Parents looking for screen-free activities
• Teachers or art instructors in need of fun classroom projects
• Creative kids who love cartoons, monsters, and jokes
• Gift-givers looking for unique presents for birthdays, holidays, or rewards

Whether used at home, in the classroom, at art camps, or during quiet time, How to Draw: Food Monsters is a laugh-out-loud drawing book that delivers real value.

Why Parents and Educators Love It Too

This book isn’t just for fun — it also encourages:

• Fine motor skill development
• Focus and concentration
• Pattern recognition and shape building
• Creative problem solving

And because the steps are easy to follow and laid out clearly, many kids can use the book independently — giving them a sense of ownership over their art and progress.

Book Details

Try the Free Macaroni Monster Page!

Before grabbing the full book, don’t forget to download the free step-by-step activity page featuring the Macaroni Monster. This bug-like creature starts as a curved piece of pasta and transforms into a giggly, multi-legged monster with eye stalks that seem to wave hello.

The Macaroni Monster drawing page the perfect introduction to the world of How to Draw: Food Monsters, giving your child a chance to test the drawing method and get excited about creating more.

Use the free macaroni monster drawing page as:

• A rainy-day activity
• A warm-up before diving into the full book
• A quick drawing prompt to spark creativity
• A fun mini-project for kids who love silly characters

Once they finish the Macaroni Monster, they’ll be eager to meet the other crazy creatures in the book — from pickle trolls to corn-on-the-cob monsters and more.

Free Macaroni Monster Activity Page (save and print):

Draw the macaroni monster above!

Explore the Whole World of Food Monsters

Drawing isn’t just about copying — it’s about discovering. When kids draw food monsters, they also:

• Practice visual storytelling
• Imagine backstories for each character
• Learn how to exaggerate features for humor and style
• See how simple ideas (like a snack!) can become amazing drawings

The process of drawing from this book often inspires kids to go beyond the instructions and create food monsters of their own. That’s the best part — once they’ve tried a few pages, they start inventing new characters even crazier than the macaroni monster based on their favorite snacks, meals, or desserts.

Get The Book!

A Fun and Unique Addition to Any Drawing Book Collection

If your child already enjoys other drawing books, How to Draw: Food Monsters will stand out on the shelf. Its blend of humor, creativity, and step-by-step support makes it a go-to favorite that kids return to again and again.

It’s also part of a larger family of beginner drawing books, each one focused on a different theme. From silly faces to cartoon animals and beyond, each book is designed to be:

• Easy to follow
• Beginner-friendly
• Imaginative and fun
• Full of characters kids love to draw

And yes—more food monsters are always cooking in the creative kitchen!

Ready to Draw?

Whether you start with the free Macaroni Monster or jump right into the full book, How to Draw: Food Monsters is a recipe for fun. It offers a creative way to laugh, draw, and turn snack-time favorites into monster-sized art projects.

So sharpen your pencil, roll out the drawing paper, and let your imagination run wild — one bite-sized monster at a time.

Get The Book Today!

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw A Cute Macaroni Monster | Food Monsters Drawing Book for Kids | Step-by-Step Art appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to draw a lion, but make it extra cute and cartoonish? You’re in luck! We just released a free video drawing tutorial featuring one of the characters from our newest beginner drawing book, How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals.

In this video, you’ll learn step-by-step how to draw a cartoon lion with a big round head, fluffy mane, and the friendliest face you’ve ever seen. It’s perfect for kids and beginners who love drawing animals, especially the silly and sweet kind.

You don’t need any fancy tools—just grab a pencil and some paper and press play. You can pause the video anytime to follow along at your own pace. Whether you’re a young artist, a parent looking for a creative afternoon activity, or a teacher adding art to the classroom, this lion drawing tutorial is a fun and easy way to learn cartoon drawing basics.

Once you finish your lion, you might find yourself wanting to draw more cute creatures. That’s where our book comes in!

About the Book: How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals

If you loved drawing the cartoon lion from the video, you’ll love diving into the full collection of animals waiting for you inside How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals. This book is designed for beginners, ages 5 and up, with simple step-by-step instructions that build confidence while teaching essential drawing skills.

Inside the book, you’ll find 50 cute cartoon animals to draw. From pets like cats and dogs to jungle creatures, ocean animals, birds, and more—there’s a wide variety to explore, all in the same playful cartoon style.

Get The Book!

Here’s what makes this book so great:

1. Beginner-Friendly Step-by-Step Instructions

Each drawing is broken down into easy-to-follow steps. Young artists build their characters line by line, starting with simple shapes and adding details gradually. This helps eliminate frustration and gives a sense of accomplishment at every stage.

2. Teaches Drawing Fundamentals Through Fun Characters

By following these guided tutorials, kids learn more than just how to draw animals. They also develop:

• Better pencil control
• Shape recognition
• Understanding of proportion
• Line confidence
• Creative decision-making

These are essential skills that will support their growth as artists in any medium.

3. A Wide Variety of Animals

Kids love variety, and this book delivers. You’ll find all kinds of creatures, including:

• Forest animals
• Farm animals
• Aquatic animals
• Exotic animals and more

This diversity keeps drawing time exciting and helps broaden kids’ knowledge and imagination.

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals

4. Perfect for Independent or Guided Learning

Whether your child wants to draw solo or needs a bit of support, the instructions are designed to work well both ways. It’s ideal for at-home learning, classrooms, after-school programs, or rainy-day activities.

5. Encourages Creativity and Customization

Even though each animal has step-by-step instructions, kids are encouraged to add their own flair. Maybe your lion has heart-shaped eyes or your turtle wears glasses! These playful personal touches make the experience more fun and spark creative thinking.

6. Screen-Free Entertainment That Parents Love

In a world full of screens, sometimes you just want an activity that gets your child creating with their hands. This drawing book is a great way to entertain while also teaching a valuable skill.

Learn to Draw 50 Cute Animals

7. Builds Confidence Through Small Wins

Every time a child completes a drawing, it boosts their confidence. With 50 characters to draw, this book is full of opportunities to feel proud and accomplished.

8. Makes a Wonderful Gift

Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, holiday, or just want a thoughtful surprise for a young artist, How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is a gift that delivers joy, creativity, and hours of artistic fun.

Try the Video, Then Grab the Book

If you haven’t already, scroll up and watch the free video drawing tutorial featuring our cartoon lion. Once you’ve drawn along with the video and seen how fun and easy it is, you’ll be excited to discover even more characters in the book.

Learn More

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is waiting to bring smiles, laughter, and creativity to your child’s next drawing adventure!

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The post Free Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw a Cartoon Lion | Easy-to-Follow Drawing Example for Kids | Cute Cartoon Animals appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

Looking for a fun, engaging, and creative way to get your kids drawing? We’ve got just the thing! To celebrate the joy of silly expressions and imaginative characters, we’re giving away a free step-by-step drawing activity page from our book How to Draw: Silly Faces. And today’s freebie is a cartoon girl with a big smile—complete with bright eyes and a cartoon style that kids absolutely love.

This cartoon girl step-by-step drawing guide is perfect for beginners, making it easy to follow along, build confidence, and complete a finished drawing from start to finish. Whether your child is new to drawing or already loves sketching, this cartoon girl is a fantastic way to introduce character design and facial expressions in a way that’s fun and approachable.

So grab some pencils and paper and draw the cartoon girl in 6 easy steps! Once your child finishes drawing this silly cartoon girl, they’ll be ready to dive into dozens more silly, happy, surprised, and goofy faces—just like the ones waiting inside the book.

How to Draw: Silly Faces

Why How to Draw: Silly Faces Is a Must-Have for Young Artists

Once you’ve had fun with the free cartoon girl drawing page, it’s time to level up! How to Draw: Silly Faces is packed with 50 unique characters, featuring cartoon girls, boys, men, women, aliens, and more—each with its own quirky expression, fun personality, and easy-to-follow drawing instructions.

This book is more than just a collection of silly-looking faces—it’s a complete beginner’s drawing experience that helps kids develop skills while having a great time. It’s also a fantastic tool for kids (or anyone!) who want to design their own cartoon characters.

Here’s what makes it a standout in any young artist’s collection:

1. Step-by-Step Drawing Made Easy

Every page in How to Draw: Silly Faces follows a clear, simple step-by-step process. Kids can build up each character one small line at a time, starting with basic shapes and ending with a fully-formed silly face. This method keeps the process fun, reduces frustration, and helps kids feel proud of their finished artwork.

No previous drawing experience? No problem. Each guide is designed so that even absolute beginners can follow along successfully.

2. Develops Drawing Skills That Grow with Them

Behind every silly face is a skill that helps young artists grow. As kids progress through the book, they’ll:

• Practice symmetry and balance
• Learn to draw expressive eyes, mouths, and eyebrows
• Understand how lines and shapes build up into recognizable characters
• Improve pencil control and fine motor skills
• Gain confidence in their drawing ability, one page at a time

This isn’t just fun—it’s foundational learning wrapped up in an entertaining and rewarding activity.

Get The Book

3. Encourages Creative Thinking

While each drawing starts with a step-by-step guide, there’s plenty of room for personalization. Kids can customize hairstyles, add funny accessories, change colors, or even combine features from multiple faces to make brand-new characters.

Encouraging kids to experiment like this sparks creativity and helps them see drawing as an open-ended, imaginative process—not something that has to be “perfect” every time.

4. Great for a Variety of Ages

Designed primarily for ages 5–12, How to Draw: Silly Faces is flexible enough to work across a range of age groups. Younger kids will enjoy the simple steps and silly expressions, while older kids can challenge themselves by refining their lines, trying new drawing tools, or experimenting with more advanced variations.

It also makes for a great rainy-day activity, screen-free fun at home, or a classroom favorite during art time.

Learn More

5. Perfect for Independent or Guided Learning

Whether your child prefers to draw solo or sit down with a parent, teacher, or sibling, this book works both ways. The steps are clear enough for self-paced learning, and the goofy subject matter makes it a joy to share with others.

Bonus: It’s also great for group activities. Imagine each kid in a group drawing the same silly face and adding their own personal twist. The results are always delightful—and no two look exactly alike.

6. It’s Packed with Variety and Expression

One of the best things about How to Draw: Silly Faces is the range of characters and emotions. You’ll find:

• Happy and cheerful faces
• Confused or surprised expressions
• Funny and exaggerated looks
• Mischievous, worried, sleepy, and super-silly characters

This variety keeps things interesting and gives kids a chance to explore the wide world of facial expressions, which can lead to better storytelling, comic-making, and original character creation later on.

7. An Awesome Addition to the Drawing Book Series

If you’ve picked up any of our other beginner drawing books, you know how much care goes into the instructions, themes, and designs. How to Draw: Silly Faces is a proud part of that same collection—and it fits perfectly alongside other themed books like “Grumpy Faces,” “Goofy Faces,” or “Cool Stuff.”

But it stands out in its own right by focusing on pure silliness. Kids love drawing things that make them laugh, and this book delivers on that with page after page of ridiculous, imaginative fun.

Step-by-Step Drawing Books for Kids

8. Screen-Free Fun with Real Benefits

In a world where kids spend more and more time on screens, finding an activity that’s both fun and enriching can feel like a challenge. This book helps check all the boxes:

• ✅ Entertaining
• ✅ Skill-building
• ✅ Easy to start (just add pencil and paper)
• ✅ Quiet-time approved
• ✅ No batteries or apps needed

It’s the kind of activity you can feel good about encouraging—and one that kids will actually want to do.

9. Makes a Great Gift

Looking for a creative birthday present? A stocking stuffer that’s not candy? A prize for a classroom, art camp, or drawing contest?

How to Draw: Silly Faces makes a wonderful gift for:

• Young artists
• Budding cartoonists
• Kids who love to draw silly things
• Parents and teachers seeking screen-free entertainment

It’s gender-neutral, laugh-out-loud fun, and offers real artistic value at the same time.

See The Book

Free Cartoon Girl Drawing Activity Page (save and print):

Draw the Cartoon Girl

Try the Free Drawing Page, Then Dive In

If you haven’t already, be sure to download the free step-by-step activity page featuring our cartoon girl with a big smile. It’s a great example of what you’ll find throughout the book—and it’s a great confidence boost for first-time users. Once your child completes their drawing, they’ll be eager to try more.

And when they do, How to Draw: Silly Faces will be waiting with 49 more funny characters to bring to life.

Get The Book!

Ready to Get Started?

There’s no better time than now to encourage creativity, build artistic skills, and have a blast drawing silly faces.

So grab your copy of How to Draw: Silly Faces today, print out the free cartoon girl drawing page, and get ready for a whole bunch of giggles, grins, and goofy art time fun.

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw A Cartoon Girl with a Big Smile | Step-by-Step Drawing Instructions for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.