How to Draw Human Hair

One of the most challenging human features to draw is hair. While hands and feet retain the prizes for the most difficult, many artists find flowing locks to be just as intimidating. There are some techniques that can be used to help make the process of drawing realistic human hair easier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Examples of portrait drawings
• Hairstyle magazine or online sites
• Good quality drawing paper
• Drawing pencils and erasers
• Blending stumps

Preparing to Draw

1. Look for Highlights Begin by looking at different images of hair drawn by other artists. These images should be eclectic, reflecting various hair types. Notice texture, color, depth and shadow.
2. Choose one image that seems achievable for a practice sketch. Make sure that the picture is clear and easy to see. These pictures can be found in hairstyle magazines and online. Images found online need to be printed to comfortably complete this exercise.
3. Study the picture without focusing on the image as hair. Look at the form in terms of light and dark and in terms of shapes and depth. Complex textures like hair can be better handled when viewed in these terms rather than as individual lines.

Practice Sketching Hair

4. Start with dark areas and gradually work towards lighter areas. This is easier when looking at the hair in terms of light and dark. Also notice depth in the form. Deeper areas are usually darker and closer areas are usually lighter.
5. Draw hair from dark to light. Make sure to follow the direction that the hair grows rather than moving the pencil in an upward and downward motion. This may take some patience but resist the temptation to just fill in the dark areas quickly by moving the pencil back-and-forth.
6. Erasers can be used to create highlights and texture. Darla Dixon, an established portrait artist, suggests using kneaded rubber erasers for larger areas and an eraser with a fine edge for wispy details.
7. Use blending stumps to soften the lines and blend the form. Smudges and mistakes can always be reworked with erasers. Add darker pencil lines to create a polished look.
8. Put the drawing aside for awhile. It helps to look at drawings with fresh eyes. Some artists turn their drawings upside down to re-see the image. Scanning the drawing into the computer or looking at it in a mirror's reflection works as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Straight, simple hair is usually easier to draw.
• Don't obsess over creating an exact replication.
• If a computer image is selected, print it out before beginning.
• Be patient with the process. It takes practice.
• If several attempts fail, try a "how to draw hair" tutorial.
• Excessive erasing will damage cheap paper.