How to Draw a Crown Step-by-Step

Countless variations of highly valuable crowns were designed throughout human history.

Crowns have adorned the heads of state throughout the world for millennia. They are symbols of power and wealth. They come in many shapes and sizes, having evolved from ancient times when people wore ceremonial headdress arrangements for cultural events. They eventually became more elaborate as goldsmith techniques improved. Royal crowns worn by the heads of rich nations can be extremely valuable. They are usually made of gold and are studded with large diamonds and other gemstones.

Things You'll Need

• Drawing paper
• Graphite pencil
• Eraser
• Reference images

Instructions

1. Assemble your materials and set up your drawing station in a well-lit area. Place the reference image of a crown beside your drawing paper for easy reference. Outline the bottom of the crown by drawing an oval shape that is twice as wide as it is high. Draw dots on the top and bottom and on each side to help you get a smooth oval line. Mark more dots about an inch above the first four dots and draw another oval on top of the first one.

2. Alter the shape on the front of the crown by sketching in a rise on the top line, going up in the middle to accommodate a large gemstone, for example. Draw a small oval at the center top to connect the two raised lines. Draw the lines carefully to replicate the precise fabrication of such crowns. Both lines of the top should gradually slope upwards as they go to the front. Use your imagination to create your own particular design for the crown.

3. Create more detailing along the upper line to make the crown shape more complicated. Raise areas on the upper rim of the crown to indicate more settings for jewels. Shade the far sides of the crown band and gradually lighten as you move to the front. This will give the crown depth.

4. Draw points at equal distances along the band of the crown to indicate more jewels. Start with a larger one centered below the large oval at the front and work your way back along each side. Detail these points more elaborately on the visible front half of the crown.

5. Draw lines in a way that indicate the round shape of the crown. Draw jewels on the outer sides from a side-on perspective, as they are only partially visible.

6. Erase any reference lines you no longer need and sharpen the outline of the crown. Add detail to the areas outside the jewels by detailing the settings holding the gems and creating texture of fine metalwork on the band. Create fine detail on raised areas on the upper edge of the crown. Carefully trace in the outlines of the gems and mark lines showing how they have been cut.

7. Examine the reference image to indicate gleams and highlights. Continue detailing the jewels until finished.

References

• How to Draw and Paint Smart: How to Draw a Crown