How to Draw a Butterfly Fish

Butterfly fish are not one single species of fish but a group of tropical fish. In fact, there are over 100 species of butterfly fish. Butterfly fish are a common sight near coral reefs and may often be spotted by divers and snorkelers. They are closely related to angel fish, so they are very similar in appearance. As a subject to draw, butterfly fish are not complicated. They are best represented by smooth, unbroken lines.

Things You'll Need

• 3H pencil
• Paper
• Felt tip or marker pen

Instructions

1. Choose a photograph of your subject. Because there are so many varieties of butterfly fish, it is best to work off of an example to ensure accuracy and realism.

2. Draw a light outline of the fish with a hard artist's pencil, 3H or harder. This line may be sketchy if need be, because you will erase it later. Look off of the picture as you draw the outline.

3. Draw a circle for the outer eye of the fish, and a circle inside that circle.

4. Draw an outline of the designs and shapes on the fish body. Many butterfly fish are brightly colored and decorated with stripes, lines and spots. If a pectoral fin is visible on the body, draw the outline of that also.

5. Put down your 3H pencil and switch to a felt-tipped pen. Outline the fish with bold, confident lines. Do not make a sketchy line with the felt tip pen.

6. Trace the designs inside the fish body and the fin. Fill in the dark areas of the design with the marker.

Tips & Warnings

• Add color to your drawing with colored pencils or colored markers.

References

• Easy Drawings And Sketches: Draw A Fish
• Teach Art At Home: Tropical Fish