How to Draw Anime Waves

Draw a curling wave following some simple steps.

Waves are majestic natural occurrences that sometimes seem too perfect to capture. If you've always wanted to learn how to draw an anime wave but didn't have the expertise, you can follow some simple steps to sketch the outline and details of a curling wave. An anime wave differs from a regular wave drawing because it is a cartoon rendering of a real wave. Before you begin, find a reference picture of a curling wave, which will give you guidance throughout the process. After you're done with the picture you can use paints, pens or colored pencils to add a splash of color to the wave.

Instructions

1. Outline the shape of the curling wave. Sketch two downward-facing C-shapes with one elongated right side. The two C-shapes should be parallel to one another.

2. Draw a smaller, oval C-shape beneath the crest of the wave.

3. Sketch the wave's spray. Orient the spray so that it is coming out from underneath the wave's crest. Use your reference picture as a guide when outlining and sketching the spray.

4. Draw the long curl of the wave. Sketch a slightly curved line between the wave's crest and the crest of the spray. This is the curled portion of the wave.

5. Draw flow lines that curve around the bottom of the wave. The flow lines add texture to the water and give the wave a three-dimensional look. Also add small U-shaped flow lines along the top of the wave, using your reference picture as a guide.

6. Shade the underside of the wave, using cross-hatched lines, to give the wave shape. Add light C-shaped lines to the wave's spray to give it dimension and texture.

References

• Club of the Waves: How to Draw a Wave