How to Draw a Pretty Tulip

Tulips possess delicate petals.

Drawing tulips is a wonderful way to display your creative side. Express yourself by using a variety of colors -- from pastel to bold -- when crafting your illustrations. Using different colors adds visual zest and color contrasts that will make the picture pop. Draw pretty tulips on your own, or with family and friends, or with art students. Pull together photos of tulips for reference -- or set up in front of a freshly grown flower garden for authentic inspiration.

Things You'll Need

• Sketch paper
• Pencil
• Eraser
• Color pencils
• Photos of tulips

Instructions

1. Trace a medium to large size oval -- or egg-shaped circle -- in the center of the sketch paper. The oval will act as the base flower bud. Draw a thin line down the middle of the oval to divide it into two petals. Extend the line below the oval to the bottom of the page -- as your base stem. Draw two thin, curve lines off the sides of the base stem to act as your base stem leaves.

2. Draw a series of several smaller ovals and half oval shapes within the borders of the base flower bud. The smaller shapes add depth and perspective -- giving off the illusion that multiple petals exist on the flower. A fully mature tulip has six petals -- although all petals will not be entirely visible in your drawing.

3. Sketch triangular offshoots from the base stem and stem leaves to fill out the fullness of the stem and leaves. Keep points soft and add gentle bends to each leaf for a natural image and feel.

4. Shade in the tulip petals with your choice of color: pink or red, for instance. Add tinges of green to the stem and leaves. Include tints and shades of blue to add sky in the background -- if you so desire. Get creative in your color petal schemes -- and overall drawing -- to make your picture authentic.

References

• Drago Art: Drawing Tulips