FirstArtBooks.com https://firstartbooks.com Instructional Drawing Books for Kids Fri, 23 May 2025 20:06:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://firstartbooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-pencil-1-1-32x32.png FirstArtBooks.com https://firstartbooks.com 32 32 Free Activity Page: A Robot Dinosaur Coloring Page from Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs | Ages 3+ Tracing and Coloring https://firstartbooks.com/robot-dinosaur-coloring-page/ Fri, 23 May 2025 20:06:30 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2767 Color A Bird-Like Robot Dinosaur from “Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs” Get ready to plug in your imagination and power up your pencils—today’s freebie is straight out of my latest title in the Trace Then Color series: Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs. I’m excited to share a brand-new robot dinosaur coloring page, featuring a bird-like mechanical dino with a pointy beak, and an inquisitive gaze. This free page gives your kids the chance to trace and color one of the characters from the book—part dinosaur, part robot, and 100% awesome. It’s a perfect introduction to what this book is all about: wild creativity, fun lines to trace, and unforgettable designs. If your kids love machines and prehistoric creatures (or anything with gears and claws), this one’s going to be a favorite. Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages like this right in your inbox! Click here. Inside the Book: Trace Then Color—Robot Dinosaurs Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs is packed with 50 different hybrid characters that blend dinosaur shapes with sci-fi details. Think bolts and armor plates, glowing eyes, sharp teeth, power cables, and claws made for stomping. Each robot dinosaur […]

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Color A Bird-Like Robot Dinosaur from “Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs

Get ready to plug in your imagination and power up your pencils—today’s freebie is straight out of my latest title in the Trace Then Color series: Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs. I’m excited to share a brand-new robot dinosaur coloring page, featuring a bird-like mechanical dino with a pointy beak, and an inquisitive gaze.

This free page gives your kids the chance to trace and color one of the characters from the book—part dinosaur, part robot, and 100% awesome. It’s a perfect introduction to what this book is all about: wild creativity, fun lines to trace, and unforgettable designs.

If your kids love machines and prehistoric creatures (or anything with gears and claws), this one’s going to be a favorite.

Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs

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Inside the Book: Trace Then Color—Robot Dinosaurs

Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs is packed with 50 different hybrid characters that blend dinosaur shapes with sci-fi details. Think bolts and armor plates, glowing eyes, sharp teeth, power cables, and claws made for stomping. Each robot dinosaur has its own personality and cool little design touches.

Every page features a character with bold, clean lines that kids can trace right on the page, followed by a version to color in however they like. It’s designed to build drawing confidence while still being really, really fun.

And yes—this free robot dinosaur coloring page is one of the 50 you’ll find in the book!

Find Robot Versions of These Popular Dinosaurs in the Book:

  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
  • Brontosaurus
  • Triceratops
  • Velociraptor
  • Plesiosaurus
  • Pterodactyl

and many more…

This book is great for kids who want to draw cool stuff but aren’t quite ready to freehand. Tracing gives them the structure they need, and coloring gives them the freedom to make it their own.


Why Kids Love Robot Dinosaurs

There’s something about combining ancient predators with futuristic tech that just works. Dinosaurs are already cool. Robots are also cool. Put them together? Now you’ve got something unforgettable.

That’s why this robot dinosaur coloring page is such a hit. It’s not just about coloring within the lines—it’s about bringing something to life. Kids love adding their own style to each character. Some go for battle-ready silver and steel. Others fill their pages with rainbow chrome and neon power cores.

And with tracing included, even younger kids can feel confident drawing these mechanical creatures.

Get The Book!


What Makes the Trace Then Color Series Special?

The Trace Then Color series is all about giving kids a path into drawing. It’s not quite a how-to-draw book—but it helps build the same skills. Each page has two parts:

  1. The Tracing Page: A lighter version of the drawing that kids can trace directly on the paper.
  2. The Coloring Page: A bold version of the same design they can color in however they like.

It’s simple, approachable, and it works. Kids learn how to break down characters into shapes and lines, all while having fun and getting creative.

If your child lights up when you say the words “dinosaur” or “robot,” then this robot dinosaur coloring page is a great introduction to the series. Once they try one, they’ll want to do them all.


Designed for Kids Ages 3 and Up

Trace Then Color: Robot Dinosaurs is perfect for younger artists, but older kids love it too. The designs are full of detail but not overly complicated, and every character has a unique vibe. Some are goofy. Some are fierce. Some are downright strange. But all of them are fun to trace, color, and bring to life.

You don’t need any special tools—just a pencil and crayons or markers. And since every page is printed on one side only, kids can use the back for their own custom creations or to practice drawing from scratch.

And let’s be honest—parents and older siblings will probably want to jump in on this robot dinosaur coloring page too. I know I had a blast drawing it.

Draw Robot Dinos


A Creative, Screen-Free Activity That Feels Like Play

One of my goals with every book is to give kids something to do that’s creative, fun, and not glued to a screen. Tracing and coloring are calming activities, and they also help with:

  • Fine motor skills
  • Hand-eye coordination
  • Focus and patience
  • Artistic confidence
  • Imaginative thinking

This robot dinosaur coloring page checks all the boxes—and it’s just one out of 50 characters in the book. Whether your child is already an avid artist or just starting out, this book gives them space to explore and experiment while following along with designs they’re excited about.

Free Activity Page (save and print):


Try the Free Page—Then Keep the Challenge Going

I always include a freebie because I want you to try it out and see what this series is like. If your kid enjoys this bird-like robot dinosaur, there are 49 more characters waiting inside the full book.

Each one builds on the same idea: bold designs that are fun to trace and even more fun to color.

So download the robot dinosaur coloring page, grab a pencil, and get ready to power up your creativity.

Get Started

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Video Drawing Tutorial: Learn How to Draw A Unicorn in 7 Minutes | Cute Drawing Activity For Kids https://firstartbooks.com/how-to-draw-a-unicorn/ Thu, 22 May 2025 20:08:00 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2763 Free Tutorial: How to Draw A Unicorn 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. Get The Book! Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. 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 […]

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Free Tutorial: How to Draw A Unicorn

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.

Get The Book!

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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.

Learn More


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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New Book: Draw Baby Animals with the Grid Drawing Method in ‘Draw by Grid: Baby Animals’ | Fun Art Books for Kids https://firstartbooks.com/draw-baby-animals/ Wed, 21 May 2025 15:49:33 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2759 My Newest Book: Draw by Grid—Baby Animals I’m excited to share something new with you today: my latest book, Draw by Grid: Baby Animals, is officially out! This one is soft, sweet, and seriously adorable. If your child loves baby animals (and really, who doesn’t?), this is a great addition to your drawing collection. It’s packed with 50 unique characters—each drawn one square at a time using my tried-and-true grid method. Whether your young artist is just starting out or already filling sketchbooks, this book makes learning to draw baby animals simple and fun. With easy step-by-step instructions built right into the grid, kids can create drawings they’re proud of, one box at a time. Draw by Grid: Baby Animals Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. About the Book Draw by Grid: Baby Animals is part of my Draw by Grid series—books designed to help kids grow their drawing confidence while having fun. This one features 50 different baby animal characters, all hand-drawn by me, and all designed to be irresistibly cute. We’re talking everything from a baby penguin and baby elephant to a little […]

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My Newest Book: Draw by Grid—Baby Animals

I’m excited to share something new with you today: my latest book, Draw by Grid: Baby Animals, is officially out! This one is soft, sweet, and seriously adorable. If your child loves baby animals (and really, who doesn’t?), this is a great addition to your drawing collection. It’s packed with 50 unique characters—each drawn one square at a time using my tried-and-true grid method.

Whether your young artist is just starting out or already filling sketchbooks, this book makes learning to draw baby animals simple and fun. With easy step-by-step instructions built right into the grid, kids can create drawings they’re proud of, one box at a time.

Draw by Grid: Baby Animals

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About the Book

Draw by Grid: Baby Animals is part of my Draw by Grid series—books designed to help kids grow their drawing confidence while having fun. This one features 50 different baby animal characters, all hand-drawn by me, and all designed to be irresistibly cute. We’re talking everything from a baby penguin and baby elephant to a little piglet, a fuzzy panda, and a floppy-eared bunny. Each animal has big eyes, simple shapes, and playful personality—perfect for artists ages 4 and up.

The grid method allows kids to slow down and focus on what they’re drawing. It breaks down complex images into manageable pieces, helping artists see proportion, placement, and shape more clearly. Even kids who get frustrated with drawing will find this method relaxing and rewarding.

And yes, every single animal in the book is a baby. That means extra cuteness, tiny paws, chubby cheeks, and expressions that make you want to say “awww” every time you flip the page.

Get The Book


Why I Chose Baby Animals

When I started sketching ideas for this book, I knew I wanted to create something that felt warm, joyful, and gentle. Baby animals were the obvious choice. Kids are naturally drawn to them—whether it’s a sleepy kitten, a clumsy puppy, or a curious baby fox, there’s just something about little animals that sparks the imagination.

What I love most about having kids draw baby animals is how quickly it pulls them in. These characters aren’t just fun to draw—they’re fun to think about, talk about, and even name. I’ve watched young artists come up with full backstories for these little guys while working through a page. That kind of creative play is exactly what these books are all about.


How the Draw by Grid Method Works

If you’re new to the Draw by Grid series, here’s how it works:

Each page features a completed drawing on one side and an empty grid on the other. Kids copy the drawing square by square, using the grid to guide their lines and shapes. It’s a process that encourages focus and observation, and it’s a great tool for teaching proportion and spacing.

The grid layout simplifies the drawing process, especially for beginners. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a full picture, kids only need to think about one small section at a time. That makes it easier to get things “right”—and even more rewarding when they see the finished result.

When I say you can learn to draw baby animals, I mean it. Even if your child has never picked up a pencil to draw something beyond a stick figure, this book will help them feel like a real artist.

Get Started


What’s Inside

Here’s a peek at some of the baby animals included in the book:

  • Baby Bunny
  • Baby Dolphin
  • Baby Elephant
  • Baby Tiger Cub
  • Baby Rhino
  • Baby Flamingo
  • Baby Cow
  • Baby Panda
  • Baby Bear
  • Baby Giraffe
  • Baby Piglet
  • Baby Turtle
  • Baby Snake
  • Baby Hippo
    …and plenty more!

Each character has been carefully designed to keep the drawing process accessible while still offering a satisfying, expressive result. The goal is always the same: help your child feel successful and excited to keep drawing.

Learn to Draw Baby Animals

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Why Kids Love to Draw Baby Animals

There’s something comforting about baby animals. They’re small, cute, and full of personality. That makes them perfect subjects for beginner artists. Kids love adding little details like whiskers, chubby cheeks, or floppy ears, and they feel a real sense of ownership when they finish a full drawing.

More importantly, these characters become more than just practice—they turn into favorites. When kids draw baby animals, they’re not just learning how to sketch a figure—they’re creating a character they might give a name to, color in, and even write a story about later.

And let’s face it, kids enjoy seeing their work come to life. Drawing baby animals is one of those activities that feels like play but teaches important creative skills at the same time.

Learn More


A Great Addition to Any Drawing Routine

If you already have a few books from my Draw by Grid series, Baby Animals fits right in. And if this is your first one, it’s a great place to start. The characters are simple and appealing, the steps are clear, and the grid format builds confidence as your child works through each page.

Whether you use it as a daily art break, part of your homeschool curriculum, or just a weekend activity, this book is designed to keep kids engaged while helping them develop their artistic abilities. Learning to draw baby animals is a skill that’s easy to pick up—and one they’ll enjoy returning to again and again.


Final Thoughts

Draw by Grid: Baby Animals is more than just a drawing book—it’s a creative experience built around joy, focus, and adorable baby creatures. If your child lights up at the sight of animals, loves to draw, or just wants to build their art skills in a fun and approachable way, this book is made for them.

You can use the grid pages straight from the book, color in your finished drawings, and even add your own backgrounds or details once you’re done. Every page is a little invitation to get creative.

So grab a pencil, find a quiet spot, and start drawing. I promise, once your kids draw their first baby animal, they won’t want to stop.

Book Details

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The post New Book: Draw Baby Animals with the Grid Drawing Method in ‘Draw by Grid: Baby Animals’ | Fun Art Books for Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

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Free Activity Page: Draw A Grumpy Cyclops with the Grid Drawing Method | Fun All-Ages Art Activity https://firstartbooks.com/draw-a-grumpy-cyclops/ Tue, 20 May 2025 19:47:44 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2754 Meet the Grumpy Cyclops If you’ve been following along with my drawing books for a while, you already know I have a soft spot for the weird, the quirky, and the oddly expressive. So today, I’m excited to share a free page from my book Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces, and this one is all about how to draw a grumpy cyclops. This guy is a classic case of cranky mythological monster. He’s got one giant eyeball, a single horn smack in the middle of his head, and an expression that says he is not having a good day. Whether he missed his morning coffee or someone woke him up too early, drawing this grumpy cyclops is an awesome mix of fun and personality. And the best part? You don’t have to be a pro to draw him. Like the rest of the book, he’s built on a simple grid system that breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps. All you need is a pencil, some focus, and a sense of humor. Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. What Is […]

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Meet the Grumpy Cyclops

If you’ve been following along with my drawing books for a while, you already know I have a soft spot for the weird, the quirky, and the oddly expressive. So today, I’m excited to share a free page from my book Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces, and this one is all about how to draw a grumpy cyclops.

This guy is a classic case of cranky mythological monster. He’s got one giant eyeball, a single horn smack in the middle of his head, and an expression that says he is not having a good day. Whether he missed his morning coffee or someone woke him up too early, drawing this grumpy cyclops is an awesome mix of fun and personality.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a pro to draw him. Like the rest of the book, he’s built on a simple grid system that breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps. All you need is a pencil, some focus, and a sense of humor.

Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces

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What Is “Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces”?

Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces is part of my Draw by Grid series, which uses a beginner-friendly drawing method that helps kids (and adults!) get comfortable with drawing proportional, expressive characters—one square at a time. This particular book features a full collection of hilarious, expressive, totally grumpy characters for you to draw.

From irritated women to disgruntled men, unimpressed creatures, and yes, grumpy cyclopses, the whole book is loaded with personality and weird little facial expressions that make drawing way more fun than just practicing circles and lines. The grid technique helps with placement, spacing, and proportion, so by the time you’re done, you’ll not only be drawing better—you’ll also be creating characters with real emotion and attitude.


Why Grumpy Characters?

You might be wondering why I’d dedicate an entire book to grumpy faces. The short answer is: they’re fun to draw.

Drawing expressions like frustration, boredom, anger, or sarcasm can really stretch a young artist’s creativity. When you’re learning how to bring a character to life on the page, facial expressions are everything. Drawing a grumpy cyclops gives you a chance to practice exaggerating features—like furrowed brows, slanted eyes, or a frown that takes up half a face—while still keeping things cute and cartoonish.

I also love that these characters open the door for storytelling. Every face in the book has a bit of a story behind it. What made the cyclops so grumpy? Why does that grumpy wizard look so annoyed? Kids start asking those questions and before you know it, they’re making up entire worlds around the faces they’re drawing.

Get The Book!


Free Page: Draw A Grumpy Cyclops

Included in this post is a free page straight from the book—your very own grumpy cyclops to draw! The page features a grid-based layout with a completed version of the character on one side and a blank grid on the other side, so you can replicate the drawing one square at a time.

This method builds confidence and helps kids slow down and observe what they’re actually drawing. They’ll learn to look at shapes, lines, and spacing while still having a blast creating a character that looks like he just woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

Take your time, go square by square, and draw a grumpy cyclops of your own to be proud of.

Free Activity Pages (save and print):

“Draw A Grumpy Cyclops”

Part of the Draw by Grid Series

Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces is just one title in my Draw by Grid series. Every book in the series is built on the same idea: that anyone can draw, and that drawing is a skill you get better at by practicing. The grid method makes it less intimidating and way more fun.

Other books in the series explore animals, dinosaurs, cute characters, and more, but this one focuses specifically on expressions. And expressions are key to creating characters that really come to life.

If your kids love to draw but sometimes get frustrated when their drawings don’t turn out the way they imagine, this series is made for them. It slows things down, removes the pressure, and makes every drawing feel achievable.


Why Kids Love to Draw Grumpy Faces

Here’s what I’ve learned after creating over 70 drawing books and watching tons of kids go through them: grumpy characters are always a hit.

They’re silly, they’re fun to imagine, and they give kids a chance to explore how to Draw A Grumpy Cyclops or other characters with big personalities. The exaggeration makes it easier to see what’s going on in a drawing—why certain lines create a certain expression—and it gives young artists a chance to play with those ideas in a safe, funny, creative space.

Plus, grumpy characters are hilarious. Let’s be honest—drawing someone in a bad mood is kind of funny. Especially when that someone is a one-eyed horned cyclops who looks like he just stepped out of a Saturday morning cartoon.

Book Details


Final Thoughts

If your kids are into cartoon characters, facial expressions, or just love being goofy while they draw, Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces is a great way to practice and play at the same time. The method is simple, the art is original (all hand-drawn by me!), and the characters are full of life—even if that life includes a little attitude.

The character featured in this “draw a grumpy cyclops” exercise is just one of 50 characters in the book, so if your kids enjoy drawing him, there’s plenty more waiting for them. Every page is a chance to explore a new face, a new expression, and maybe even a new story.

Download the freebie, get drawing, and don’t forget to have fun—even if your cyclops is in a bad mood.

Learn More

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Video Drawing Tutorial: Shape Drawing Challenge #3 | Turn 1 Shape into 3 Characters | Shape Drawing Book for Kids https://firstartbooks.com/shape-drawing-book-for-kids/ Mon, 19 May 2025 19:10:28 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2751 Shape Drawing Challenge Video 3: One Shape, Three New Characters + A Shape Drawing Book for Kids! 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 Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. What Is the Shape Drawing Challenge? The Shape Drawing Challenge is an […]

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Shape Drawing Challenge Video 3: One Shape, Three New Characters + A Shape Drawing Book for Kids!

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.

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Free Activity Page: Parasaurolophus Coloring Page | Trace Then Color A Cute Dinosaur | Fun All-Ages Coloring https://firstartbooks.com/parasaurolophus-coloring-page/ Sat, 17 May 2025 00:09:55 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2748 Parasaurolophus Coloring Page – Trace Then Color Fun for Dino-Loving Kids If your kids love dinosaurs and are always reaching for crayons and markers, then this one’s for you. Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is one of my favorite books in the series, and it’s packed with adorable dinosaur characters that kids can trace and color with confidence. Today, I’m sharing a free page from the book featuring a cute Parasaurolophus—one of the coolest dinosaurs out there, if you ask me. This Parasaurolophus coloring page gives kids a chance to bring this friendly, crested dinosaur to life while helping them build hand-eye coordination and drawing skills at the same time. Trace Then Color Dinosaurs Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. About the Book: Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is all about fun and skill-building through creativity. With 50 cute and goofy dinosaur characters to trace and color, this book is a hit with both beginner and confident young artists. Each page features a big, bold outline that makes tracing simple and satisfying for small hands. And the characters? They’re all […]

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Parasaurolophus Coloring Page – Trace Then Color Fun for Dino-Loving Kids

If your kids love dinosaurs and are always reaching for crayons and markers, then this one’s for you. Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is one of my favorite books in the series, and it’s packed with adorable dinosaur characters that kids can trace and color with confidence. Today, I’m sharing a free page from the book featuring a cute Parasaurolophus—one of the coolest dinosaurs out there, if you ask me.

This Parasaurolophus coloring page gives kids a chance to bring this friendly, crested dinosaur to life while helping them build hand-eye coordination and drawing skills at the same time.

Trace Then Color Dinosaurs

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About the Book: Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs

Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is all about fun and skill-building through creativity. With 50 cute and goofy dinosaur characters to trace and color, this book is a hit with both beginner and confident young artists. Each page features a big, bold outline that makes tracing simple and satisfying for small hands.

And the characters? They’re all hand-drawn by me—Kevin Coulston. I put a lot of care into designing each dinosaur to be fun, silly, and totally unique. This isn’t your standard realistic dinosaur book. These dinos are cartoon-styled and full of personality, and the Parasaurolophus coloring page is no exception.

Whether it’s a stegosaurus with a funky grin, a T-Rex with stubby arms, or today’s spotlighted Parasaurolophus, each page is meant to make kids smile and feel confident in their drawing.

What Makes the Trace Then Color Series So Special

The Trace Then Color series is designed to help kids who want to learn how to draw without feeling overwhelmed. Every character is broken down into clean, traceable shapes that give kids a great starting point. It’s a hands-on, pressure-free way to help them gain drawing experience—and it’s disguised as just plain fun.

This method isn’t just about tracing—it’s about guiding kids to see how a drawing comes together. After tracing the main outline, they get to take over with coloring and creativity. That’s where their imagination kicks in. Will their Parasaurolophus be green and yellow with sparkles? Or purple and blue with fiery red eyes? That part’s up to them.

Kids aren’t just copying—they’re participating in the creative process, and that’s the goal behind every book in the Trace Then Color series.

Get The Book!

Featuring the Parasaurolophus Coloring Page

Let’s talk about the Parasaurolophus character featured in today’s freebie. This dino is one of my personal favorites to draw. With its curved head and cute face, the Parasaurolophus stands out from the crowd. In the book, I gave this little dino a cheerful, playful look, complete with big eyes and a fun pose. It’s friendly, inviting, and perfect for kids just starting out with tracing or coloring.

The Parasaurolophus coloring page is designed to make the drawing feel manageable for younger kids, but it still leaves plenty of room for more detailed coloring and creativity if your child wants to take it further. That’s part of what makes these books great across a wide range of ages.

This isn’t just another dinosaur book—this is a creativity-builder that turns kids into confident little artists.

Free Activity Page (save and print):

Learn More

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Why Kids Love Trace Then Color Books

If you’ve checked out any of my other Trace Then Color books, you already know the formula that works: silly characters, big outlines, and just enough structure to get kids started without boxing in their creativity.

Here’s what keeps kids coming back to these books:

  1. They’re easy to follow. Even kids as young as three can follow the bold outlines and start tracing on their own.
  2. The characters are fun. These aren’t stiff or boring drawings—they’re full of life and personality.
  3. It encourages storytelling. Once kids trace and color a character, they often make up stories about them. That’s what makes a simple Parasaurolophus coloring page turn into a whole creative adventure.
  4. It builds skills. Tracing helps develop fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, and drawing confidence.
  5. It’s screen-free entertainment. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or quiet time at home, these books are a go-to creative outlet for kids and parents alike.

Dinosaur Coloring Book

Designed by Hand, From My Sketchbook to Yours

Every single drawing in this book—and in all of my books—is hand-drawn by me. I don’t use clipart or templates. These characters come straight from my own sketchbook, and I work hard to make them something your kids will love spending time with.

There’s something special about drawing characters that are a little goofy, a little weird, and a lot of fun. That’s the spirit behind the whole Trace Then Color series, and it’s what makes this Parasaurolophus coloring page so enjoyable.

Part of a Bigger World of Drawing Fun

Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is just one part of a larger world of drawing books I’ve created for kids. From robots and aliens to fairies, animals, and goofy faces, my books give kids access to a variety of styles and themes. But the goal is always the same—get kids drawing, get them excited, and help them see what they’re capable of.

Dinosaur fans in particular will love this book. Whether they already know the names of every prehistoric creature or they just like drawing big lizards with spikes and tails, Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs has something for them. And with characters like the Parasaurolophus leading the way, it’s an easy win.

Wrap-Up: Let’s Get Drawing

If you’re looking for a book that can help your child develop drawing skills, enjoy screen-free time, and unleash their creativity, Trace Then Color: Cartoon Dinosaurs is a great place to start. The Parasaurolophus coloring page is just one of the many fun characters waiting to be traced, colored, and turned into something amazing.

These books are made to be loved, drawn in, and filled with color. So grab some crayons, pick a page, and let the creativity begin.

Get Started Today!

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The post Free Activity Page: Parasaurolophus Coloring Page | Trace Then Color A Cute Dinosaur | Fun All-Ages Coloring appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

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Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Koala in 10 Minutes | Fun All-Ages Art Activity | Cute Cartoon Animals https://firstartbooks.com/how-to-draw-a-koala/ Thu, 15 May 2025 19:11:35 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2745 Let’s Learn How to Draw A Koala – Step by Step! Featuring “How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals” When it comes to drawing adorable animals, koalas are always a hit. Their round ears, big nose, and sleepy expressions make them instantly lovable—and super fun to draw. In today’s post, I’m excited to feature a character straight from my book How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals: a cute cartoon koala, which I’ll show you how to draw in a free video tutorial below. But before we get to that, let’s talk about the book it comes from and why it’s one of my favorite entries in the “How to Draw” series. How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. What is “How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals”? How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is packed with 50 original animal characters that kids can draw using my simple 6-step method. I designed every character in this book by hand, keeping the shapes fun, the features expressive, and the steps easy to follow. Every animal—from the tiger and the elephant to the octopus and […]

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Let’s Learn How to Draw A Koala – Step by Step!
Featuring “How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals

When it comes to drawing adorable animals, koalas are always a hit. Their round ears, big nose, and sleepy expressions make them instantly lovable—and super fun to draw.

In today’s post, I’m excited to feature a character straight from my book How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals: a cute cartoon koala, which I’ll show you how to draw in a free video tutorial below. But before we get to that, let’s talk about the book it comes from and why it’s one of my favorite entries in the “How to Draw” series.

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals

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What is “How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals”?

How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals is packed with 50 original animal characters that kids can draw using my simple 6-step method. I designed every character in this book by hand, keeping the shapes fun, the features expressive, and the steps easy to follow.

Every animal—from the tiger and the elephant to the octopus and mouse—is broken down into approachable parts. And yes, that includes our star today: the koala! If your child has ever wanted to learn how to draw a koala, this book offers the perfect jumping-off point.

This book is part of my “How to Draw” series, a growing collection of step-by-step drawing guides created for kids (and the adults who love drawing with them). Each book in the series focuses on a different theme, like monsters, robots, or fairies. But Cute Cartoon Animals remains one of the most popular, and it’s easy to see why—who doesn’t love drawing animals?


Why Drawing Animals is So Fun for Kids

Kids love animals, and drawing them lets their imaginations run wild. Whether they’re turning a giraffe into a superhero or giving a penguin a jetpack, there’s something magical about combining creativity with creatures from nature.

That’s part of what inspired me to create How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals in the first place. I wanted to give young artists a book that lets them not only learn how to draw these animals but also have fun doing it. Each drawing has its own personality, and the koala is no exception.

When you learn how to draw a koala from my book, you’ll start with simple shapes and add details step by step. Before you know it, you’ll have a complete character on the page, ready for color and customization.

Get Started


How the 6-Step Drawing Process Works

I’ve tested and refined my 6-step drawing process over years of creating books, teaching classes, and working with kids. Each page in the book takes you through six clear, progressive steps, starting with the basic shape and building up to the final cute cartoon version.

This system works because it removes the pressure of “drawing it perfect” on the first try. Instead, kids can focus on the fun—drawing one simple shape at a time until the character appears.

Our koala starts with a few rounded shapes and ends up with a cuddly cartoon animal full of charm. It’s the perfect subject for young artists learning how to draw a koala for the first time.


Spotlight on the Koala

The koala in this tutorial is standing up, arms out, with an infectious smile and its iconic big round ears. Its soft shape and approachable design make it a favorite for younger artists. I made sure to keep all the features friendly and expressive, so even beginning artists can feel confident recreating it.

Learning how to draw a koala isn’t just fun—it also teaches kids about proportion, facial features, and how to bring personality into a character. And once they’ve drawn their koala, they can add their own creative touches: maybe a hat, a bowtie, or a tree branch for it to sit on.

Free Video Drawing Tutorial:

Learn to Draw Animals

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Why Kids Love the “How to Draw” Series

Every book in my How to Draw series is built with young creators in mind. These books aren’t just about following steps—they’re about building confidence and encouraging creativity.

Here’s what makes the series so popular with kids (and parents):

  • Simple, Clear Instructions: Each character is broken into manageable parts.
  • Fun, Original Characters: All art is hand-drawn by me, Kevin Coulston. You won’t find these characters anywhere else.
  • Creative Freedom: Kids can copy the drawings or use them as inspiration to create their own characters.
  • Perfect for All Skill Levels: Whether your child is just starting out or already loves to draw, these books offer a welcoming challenge.

And for today’s featured topic, if your child wants to learn how to draw a koala, this book is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to start.


Encouraging Creativity Through Drawing

As a cartoonist and illustrator who’s worked on dozens of kids’ books, I’m always thinking about how to keep the creative spark alive. Drawing is such a powerful tool for kids—it builds focus, patience, and imagination.

Books like How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals give kids the structure they need to learn while still leaving plenty of room for fun. When they sit down with a pencil and follow along with the koala tutorial, they’re not just copying lines—they’re creating something entirely their own.

That’s one of the reasons I make sure every drawing is fun, friendly, and just a little bit silly. It helps take the pressure off and keeps the joy of creating front and center.

Learn More


Final Thoughts: Let’s Draw Together!

I’ve always believed that drawing should be accessible, approachable, and most importantly, fun. That’s what drives everything I do here at FirstArtBooks.com. Books like How to Draw: Cute Cartoon Animals are all about building skills and confidence while having a great time.

If your child wants to learn how to draw a koala, this book is a great place to start. With easy steps, original art, and plenty of personality, the koala—and all 49 other animals—offer hours of creativity and joy.

So grab a pencil, print the freebie, and let’s draw a koala together. I can’t wait to see what your young artist creates.

Let’s Draw!

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Koala in 10 Minutes | Fun All-Ages Art Activity | Cute Cartoon Animals appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

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Free Activity Page: How to Draw A Cute Cactus in 6 Easy Steps | A Sneak Peek at How to Draw Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff | Fun Drawing For Kids https://firstartbooks.com/how-to-draw-a-cute-cactus/ Wed, 14 May 2025 15:51:03 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2741 How to Draw A Cute Cactus – Free Step-by-Step Drawing Page Today’s post features one of the quieter stars from my book How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff—a lovable little cactus with a big personality and an even bigger smile. While this book is packed with mermaids, unicorns, magical creatures, and dessert-shaped characters, I always like to include a few surprises. And what’s more surprising than finding a cute, spiky cactus right in the middle of a glittery, magical world? In this post, I’m giving you a free page straight from the book that shows you how to draw a cute cactus in six simple steps. This little plant has a cheerful face, tons of personality, and of course—plenty of cactus needles to complete the look. Whether your kid loves nature, cute characters, or just learning how to draw new things, this page is a fun one to try. Check Out The Book! Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. About the Book: How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff This book is one of my most popular drawing books, especially […]

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How to Draw A Cute Cactus – Free Step-by-Step Drawing Page

Today’s post features one of the quieter stars from my book How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff—a lovable little cactus with a big personality and an even bigger smile. While this book is packed with mermaids, unicorns, magical creatures, and dessert-shaped characters, I always like to include a few surprises. And what’s more surprising than finding a cute, spiky cactus right in the middle of a glittery, magical world?

In this post, I’m giving you a free page straight from the book that shows you how to draw a cute cactus in six simple steps. This little plant has a cheerful face, tons of personality, and of course—plenty of cactus needles to complete the look. Whether your kid loves nature, cute characters, or just learning how to draw new things, this page is a fun one to try.

Check Out The Book!

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

This book is one of my most popular drawing books, especially with kids who love characters that are bright, whimsical, and full of charm. Every page features an original character designed and drawn by me—Kevin Coulston—and each one is broken down into six easy-to-follow drawing steps.

Inside the book, you’ll find:

  • Mermaids in all kinds of poses and expressions
  • Smiling unicorns with candy-colored manes
  • Food characters like a cupcake, a slice of pizza, or a happy watermelon
  • And yes—even things like a happy cactus

The book is designed for kids ages 5 and up, but I’ve had plenty of younger and older artists enjoy it too. The format is simple, approachable, and fun. And best of all? The drawings actually teach you something. Your kids will walk away knowing how to draw a cute cactus, an adorable honey bee, or a pretty unicorn—without ever feeling stuck or overwhelmed.


Featured Freebie: Cute Cactus Drawing Page

Today’s freebie page walks you through how to draw a cute cactus in just six steps. The cactus sits upright with little stubby arms, a face full of joy, and spikes that give it just enough texture without making it look scary.

Here’s what I love about this one:

  • The character is simple, but still full of life
  • Kids can easily customize it by adding a pot, flowers, or sunglasses
  • It teaches basic shape-building and repetition (great practice!)
  • And it’s just plain fun to draw

Like every page in the book, this one starts with basic shapes. Step-by-step, kids will add detail and personality until they’ve drawn the full character on their own. It’s satisfying, confidence-building, and the kind of activity that makes drawing feel like a success—not a struggle.

Free Activity Page (save and print):

Get The Book!


Why I Include Characters Like This

I know the title of the book promises mermaids and unicorns—and don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of those—but I always try to sprinkle in a few unexpected characters that still fit the “cute stuff” category. Drawing a cactus gives kids something fresh to try. It’s not covered in sparkles or wings, but it has its own charm—and it opens the door to even more creativity.

Sometimes the best characters are the ones that surprise you. A smiling cactus is funny, unusual, and gives kids a chance to stretch their imagination. That’s one of the biggest reasons I wanted to give away the cactus page today. Once kids know how to draw a cute cactus, it’s only a matter of time before they start designing their own spiky plant buddies.

Learn More


All Characters Are Hand-Drawn

Every character in this book—and in every drawing book I create—is hand-drawn by me. I don’t use clipart or software shortcuts. I design each character from the ground up, focusing on what kids will enjoy drawing and what they’ll be proud to complete.

When I create a book like How to Draw: Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff, I’m thinking about how each character can build drawing confidence. That’s why I start with simple forms and work toward complete, polished characters. Every step is intentional. Every line has a purpose.

Even the cactus.


Why This Drawing Style Works

The six-step format I use across all my books is something I’ve refined over dozens of titles and thousands of characters. It’s effective because it focuses on learning through doing—by breaking down a drawing into small, manageable steps, kids are able to see their progress unfold right in front of them.

It’s not just about copying shapes—it’s about understanding how drawings are built. The cute cactus you’re learning today might just seem like a fun character, but it also teaches proportion, symmetry, expression, and texture. That’s a lot packed into one spiky little plant.

And once your kid has figured out how to draw a cute cactus, they’ll start applying that confidence to other characters in the book—and even to ones they invent on their own.


More Than Just Mermaids and Unicorns

Yes, the book has mermaids. Yes, it has unicorns. But it also has the kind of characters that kids don’t expect—and that’s part of the fun. A big part of my job as a cartoonist and art book creator is to keep kids curious and engaged. That means offering more than just the obvious.

Whether it’s a smiling slice of watermelon, a giggly animal, or a cheerful cactus covered in needles, each character adds something unique to the drawing journey. It’s not just about learning to draw—it’s about building an artistic vocabulary.

This book is a great fit for kids who like all things cute, colorful, and a little bit quirky. And if your young artist is the kind of kid who puts faces on their fruit or imagines their houseplants talking back, they’re going to love it here.

Get Started


Final Thoughts

Drawing should be fun. That’s always been my approach. I design every book to make the process feel playful and creative—and to give kids a sense of accomplishment on every page.

The cactus page I’m sharing today is a great place to start. It’s simple, it’s silly, and it shows exactly what makes this book so special. When a kid can sit down and learn how to draw a cute cactus in just a few minutes, that’s a big win. And that’s what I aim for in every book I make.

So go ahead—download the page, grab some pencils, and get drawing. The cactus is waiting.

Get The Book!

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The post Free Activity Page: How to Draw A Cute Cactus in 6 Easy Steps | A Sneak Peek at How to Draw Mermaids, Unicorns, and Other Cute Stuff | Fun Drawing For Kids appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

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Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Cheeseburger Monster | Fun All-Ages Drawing Activity | Learn to Draw Food Monsters Easy https://firstartbooks.com/how-to-draw-a-cheeseburger-monster/ Tue, 13 May 2025 18:50:03 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2738 How to Draw A Cheeseburger Monster – Free Video Tutorial + Book Feature If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your lunch turned into a mutant, you’re in the right place. In today’s post, we’re diving into my book How to Draw: Food Monsters and giving you a free video tutorial to show you how to draw a cheeseburger monster—a one-eyed, four-armed, spider-legged beast with sesame seeds on top and a tongue sticking out of his buns. Like all the characters in the book, this monster is drawn in six easy-to-follow steps and is one of 50 hand-drawn food creatures that make this book a ridiculous and fun drawing experience for kids. How to Draw: Food Monsters Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages or videos like this right in your inbox! Click here. What Is How to Draw: Food Monsters? How to Draw: Food Monsters is exactly what it sounds like—50 cartoon creatures based on fruits, vegetables, and junk food that have been turned into wild, weird, and silly monsters. I’ve taken common foods and pushed their personalities to the extreme with claws, fangs, extra eyes, and goofy expressions. The entire book follows my […]

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How to Draw A Cheeseburger Monster – Free Video Tutorial + Book Feature

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your lunch turned into a mutant, you’re in the right place. In today’s post, we’re diving into my book How to Draw: Food Monsters and giving you a free video tutorial to show you how to draw a cheeseburger monster—a one-eyed, four-armed, spider-legged beast with sesame seeds on top and a tongue sticking out of his buns.

Like all the characters in the book, this monster is drawn in six easy-to-follow steps and is one of 50 hand-drawn food creatures that make this book a ridiculous and fun drawing experience for kids.

How to Draw: Food Monsters

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What Is How to Draw: Food Monsters?

How to Draw: Food Monsters is exactly what it sounds like—50 cartoon creatures based on fruits, vegetables, and junk food that have been turned into wild, weird, and silly monsters. I’ve taken common foods and pushed their personalities to the extreme with claws, fangs, extra eyes, and goofy expressions.

The entire book follows my standard six-step drawing method: every page starts with basic shapes and builds layer by layer until the final character appears. It’s a process that’s approachable for beginners but still fun for more advanced young artists.

And yes, every single monster is hand-drawn by me, Kevin Coulston. These aren’t AI images or digitally generated assets. Each one was sketched, refined, and created with kids in mind—from the way the characters are shaped to the simplicity of each drawing step.


Featured Character: The Cheeseburger Monster

Today’s freebie is a fan favorite from the book: the Cheeseburger Monster. This guy is a total mess in the best way possible. He’s got:

  • One big eyeball right in the center of his face
  • Four arms (great for holding ketchup packets or extra fries)
  • Spider-like legs that prop him up like some kind of crunchy crab
  • A tongue hanging out from between his hamburger buns
  • And of course, sesame seeds sprinkled across his top bun

He’s a little creepy, very funny, and totally satisfying to draw.

See The Book!

In the free video tutorial, I walk you through how to draw a cheeseburger monster from start to finish. The tutorial is meant to show how easy and fun this process is—and to give kids a quick win that gets them excited about drawing more.

Watch the free video tutorial “How to Draw A Cheeseburger Monster” here:


What Other Monsters Are in the Book?

The Cheeseburger Monster is just one of 50 food-themed creatures waiting to be drawn in this book. Some of the other monsters include:

  • A Spooky Slice of Pizza
  • A Creepy Banana
  • A Hideous Block of Cheesy
  • A Potato with Too Many Eyes
  • A Vicious Cupcake

Every one of them is drawn using the same six-step format. It’s consistent, easy to follow, and designed to help kids actually learn how to draw by doing—not just tracing.

The best part? The food monsters don’t need to be perfect. They’re weird on purpose. That means kids can make them their own. Add extra eyes. Change the shapes. Swap the legs. Once you know how to draw a cheeseburger monster, who’s to say you can’t invent a taco ghost or a spaghetti goblin next?

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Why the Six-Step Format Works

Over the course of creating more than 70 books, I’ve learned that kids respond best to structure—especially when they’re learning to draw. The six-step method works because it breaks the drawing process into bite-sized, manageable parts. It’s not overwhelming. There’s always a clear next step.

Each page in How to Draw: Food Monsters starts with basic, easy shapes—circles, ovals, lines. From there, I layer on detail slowly, giving kids time to understand how the drawing evolves. By step six, the character is complete, and kids can see exactly how it all came together.

I design every character with this process in mind. These monsters may look wild and unpredictable at the end, but each one was built carefully to make sure it could be learned and drawn by kids as young as 5.

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Why Kids Love Drawing Food Monsters

There’s something about turning familiar things into strange creatures that taps right into a kid’s imagination. Food monsters are fun because they’re unexpected. Your sandwich isn’t just lunch—it might be a slime-spewing beast with a tail. Your apple might be grumpy. Your donut might be secretly evil.

These kinds of ideas make drawing more engaging. When kids are laughing while they draw, they’re also learning. They’re practicing observation, hand-eye coordination, proportion, and creative problem solving—all without it feeling like “work.”

Learning how to draw a cheeseburger monster might sound like a silly challenge (and it is), but it’s also a real artistic skill. It’s the kind of activity that builds drawing confidence while giving kids room to explore their own ideas.


What Makes My Books Different

All of my books are hand-drawn. That means every line, every character, and every expression comes from a pencil, not a program. I draw each step of each character to make sure it’s kid-friendly, accurate, and fun to follow.

There are no shortcuts. I believe in giving kids real art to learn from—and in designing my books to meet them where they are. That means clear steps, characters that feel doable, and books that are actually fun to look at and use.

If your kid likes monsters, weird creatures, or food with attitude, How to Draw: Food Monsters might be their new favorite book. And once they’ve figured out how to draw a cheeseburger monster, they’ll probably want to draw them all.


Final Thoughts

The Cheeseburger Monster is just one of 50 oddball food creatures in How to Draw: Food Monsters, and today’s free video tutorial is a great way to get started. Whether your kid is into burgers, bananas, or pizza slices with teeth, this book delivers character after character, each more absurd (and fun) than the last.

If you’ve got a young artist who likes a little humor in their drawing time—or just wants to learn how to draw something completely different—this is the book for them.

Hit play on the video, and follow along as we learn how to draw a cheeseburger monster together. With four arms, a single eye, and a serious attitude, this burger isn’t going to draw itself.

Learn to Draw Food Monsters

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The post Video Drawing Tutorial: How to Draw A Cheeseburger Monster | Fun All-Ages Drawing Activity | Learn to Draw Food Monsters Easy appeared first on FirstArtBooks.com.

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Free Activity Page: Cartoon Dog Drawing Tutorial | Draw by Grid | A Fun Art Activity for Kids https://firstartbooks.com/cartoon-dog-drawing-tutorial/ Mon, 12 May 2025 18:46:44 +0000 https://firstartbooks.com/?p=2734 Cartoon Dog Drawing Tutorial – A Free Page from Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs If your kid loves drawing animals—but needs a little help getting started—the grid method might be just the thing. Today’s post features a free page from my book Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs, and it walks you through a cartoon dog drawing tutorial that’s easy, approachable, and fun. The dog in today’s page is sitting down, full of personality, with a big toothy smile and a couple of goofy spots that make him extra charming. This free page is just one of the many cartoon animals included in the book, and every single one is drawn by hand—by me, Kevin Coulston. No AI. No shortcuts. Just real artwork built specifically to help kids feel successful. Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs Sign up for my free newsletter to get more drawing pages like this right in your inbox! Click here. What Is “Draw by Grid”? The “Draw by Grid” method is one of my go-to approaches when designing books for beginner artists. It works by breaking the image into a grid of squares, so instead of drawing a whole character at […]

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Cartoon Dog Drawing Tutorial – A Free Page from Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs

If your kid loves drawing animals—but needs a little help getting started—the grid method might be just the thing. Today’s post features a free page from my book Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs, and it walks you through a cartoon dog drawing tutorial that’s easy, approachable, and fun.

The dog in today’s page is sitting down, full of personality, with a big toothy smile and a couple of goofy spots that make him extra charming. This free page is just one of the many cartoon animals included in the book, and every single one is drawn by hand—by me, Kevin Coulston.

No AI. No shortcuts. Just real artwork built specifically to help kids feel successful.

Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs

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What Is “Draw by Grid”?

The “Draw by Grid” method is one of my go-to approaches when designing books for beginner artists. It works by breaking the image into a grid of squares, so instead of drawing a whole character at once, kids focus on one small section at a time.

That means less pressure and more accuracy. By copying what’s in each box, they slowly build out the full character—and the end result actually looks like the example. This cartoon dog drawing tutorial uses that exact system to help kids learn how to draw confidently.

It’s a great fit for kids who may feel overwhelmed by starting from scratch. And it builds strong observational skills, too.


Why This Dog Is A Perfect Starter Drawing

Let’s talk about the cartoon dog in today’s freebie page. He’s sitting upright with floppy ears, a few spots, and a grin that takes up half his face. He’s the kind of dog character you might see in an animated short or a comic strip—simple enough to draw, but packed with personality.

What I love about this character is how approachable he is. There’s no tricky perspective or complicated fur details. He’s clean, bold, and shaped with curves and lines that beginners can tackle without frustration.

This cartoon dog drawing tutorial takes you square-by-square through the image, and by the time your kid finishes the grid, they’ll be amazed by what they’ve drawn. That’s the kind of moment that builds creative momentum.

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How This Book Helps Kids Learn to Draw

Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs is part of my broader “Draw by Grid” series. In this book, every page features either a cat or dog character in a fun pose. Some are playful, some are sleepy, some are silly—but all are hand-drawn and designed with kids in mind.

Here’s what you can expect in this book:

  • Full-page grid tutorials – Each image is divided into easy-to-follow sections to help kids focus on details without getting overwhelmed.
  • Cartoon-style characters – Bold lines, expressive faces, and simple shapes that are fun to recreate.
  • Lots of variety – From cuddly kittens to energetic pups, every drawing offers a different challenge and a new opportunity to learn.

When your kid works through this cartoon dog drawing tutorial, they’ll be developing skills they can apply to all kinds of characters, not just animals. Grids train the eye to see proportion, spacing, and shapes—all essential building blocks for any kind of drawing.

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The Power of Drawing Tutorials for Kids

I design all of my books with the same goal in mind: to help kids succeed creatively. That means the tutorials need to work—not just look good. This cartoon dog drawing tutorial is one example of how a simple format can make a huge difference.

By working through each square, kids aren’t just copying—they’re understanding how a drawing comes together. They’re learning that big pictures are really just a bunch of small shapes and lines working together. That realization can open the door to more confidence, more creativity, and a lifelong love of drawing.

And since everything is hand-drawn, kids aren’t just tracing sterile vector art or trying to imitate computer-generated characters. They’re connecting with lines made by a real person (me), and that creates a different kind of engagement.


Why Parents Love the Grid Method

I hear from a lot of parents who are amazed at how quickly their kids start making progress with the “Draw by Grid” format. And it’s no surprise—this method works for visual learners and analytical thinkers alike.

Here’s why the grid method is so effective:

  • It’s structured – The boxes give kids a framework to follow, which is great for beginners.
  • It breaks things down – Complex drawings become manageable when viewed as a series of small steps.
  • It encourages accuracy – Kids develop an eye for proportion and placement without even realizing it.
  • It builds confidence – When the final drawing looks like the example, kids feel proud and excited to draw more.

This cartoon dog drawing tutorial is a perfect example of how the grid method turns a simple idea into a skill-building activity that feels like fun.

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A Book Full of Fun and Friendly Pets

While today’s freebie is a smiling dog, Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs is packed with a whole cast of silly, cuddly, and curious characters. You’ll find sleepy cats, hyper dogs, sneaky kittens, and goofy pups—all ready to be drawn with the help of a grid.

The goal of the book is to make drawing accessible and enjoyable. If a child can finish one tutorial and feel successful, they’re going to want to try the next. And before you know it, they’re moving through the book with growing confidence and artistic skill.

Free Activity Pages (save and print):


Final Thoughts

This cartoon dog drawing tutorial is more than just a fun activity—it’s an introduction to a method that can help your child learn how to draw with precision and pride.

Draw by Grid: Cartoon Cats & Dogs offers a safe and friendly environment for kids to experiment with their creativity. And best of all, they’ll come away with drawings they’re proud to show off.

So grab the freebie, print it out, and see how your young artist does with today’s cheerful cartoon dog. Who knows—this might just be the first step in a lifelong love of drawing.

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