How do you start a face drawing?
Begin by drawing a simple circle to serve as the foundation for the head. This shape prevents the sketch from becoming too wide or too long as you add details. Once the circle is in place, draw a vertical line down the center and a horizontal line across the middle. These guidelines act as a map for the rest of the facial features.
The vertical line establishes the symmetry of the face, while the horizontal line marks the level where the eyes will sit. Using these basic geometric shapes allows an artist to build a balanced structure before focusing on specific details like skin texture or hair.
Where do the eyes and nose go on a face?
Place the eyes along the horizontal guideline, which should be located approximately halfway between the top of the head and the chin. Many beginners mistakenly place the eyes too high, but keeping them in the middle of the head creates a more natural appearance. Ensure there is enough space between the eyes, typically the width of one eye, to maintain realistic proportions.
The nose sits on the vertical center line, usually positioned halfway between the eye line and the bottom of the chin. Aligning the bridge of the nose with this vertical axis keeps the face symmetrical. By following these specific measurements, the features remain grounded within the initial circular frame.
How do you position the mouth and jaw?
Sketch the mouth on the vertical center line, just below the base of the nose. The space between the nose and the chin is generally divided into thirds, with the mouth resting on the first division. This placement ensures the mouth is not too low on the face. You can then extend the jawline down from the initial circle to complete the lower half of the head.
