What you will learn
By the end of this guide you will be able to draw an eye with the correct shape, a natural-looking iris and soft shading.
Materials needed
- HB and 2B pencils
- A kneaded eraser
- Smooth drawing paper
- A blending stump or cotton bud (optional)
Step 1: Draw the basic shape
Draw a light almond shape. Add a circle inside it for the iris, with the top slightly hidden under the upper lid. Keep your lines faint so you can change them.
Step 2: Add the eyelids and the crease
Draw the upper lid as a curve above the almond shape, and add a thin crease above it. Draw the lower lid as a softer, thinner line.
Step 3: Draw the pupil and the highlight
Draw the pupil in the centre of the iris. Mark a small highlight circle and leave it unshaded. This keeps the eye looking alive.
Step 4: Shade the iris
Use the 2B pencil to shade from the edge of the iris towards the centre, leaving lighter areas near the highlight. Add fine lines pointing out from the pupil like spokes.
Step 5: Add the lashes and the shadows
Draw the lashes in short, curved strokes that grow outward and slightly apart. Do not draw them as a solid line. Shade softly under the upper lid and in the corners.
Step 6: Blend and finish
Blend gently with the stump. Use the kneaded eraser to lift out the highlight and any bright edges.
Practice tip
Draw five eyes in a row from different angles. Look at each one and decide what to improve in the next.