How to Draw a Butterfly: 2 Simple Styles for Beginners

In this section, we will show you how to draw a realistic butterfly. The view is from above, like how butterflies are displayed in collections. Follow these steps to create a symmetrical and beautiful butterfly drawing.

Step 1: Draw the Body

Start with the body of the butterfly in the center of your paper. Draw a long oval shape for the thorax and abdomen. Then, add a small circle at the top for the head. You can make it slightly narrower at the top and bottom to look more natural.

Step 2: Draw the Antennae

From the small circle (head), draw two thin curved lines going upward. These are the antennae. Add small dots or ovals at the tip to make them more realistic.

Step 3: Draw the Top Wings

Start drawing the upper wings on each side of the body. Begin near the top of the body and curve the lines outward and then downward, making a shape like a wide number "3" or a stretched-out leaf. Make sure both wings are the same shape and size for balance.

Step 4: Draw the Bottom Wings

Now, draw the lower wings starting near the middle of the body. Make a smaller curved shape under each top wing. These wings can be more rounded or shaped like a teardrop. Keep them even on both sides.

Step 5: Add Patterns

Look at pictures of real butterflies for ideas. Add dots, curves, and lines inside the wings. Try to keep the pattern on the left and right wings the same. This will make your butterfly look more realistic and beautiful.

Step 6: Trace Your Drawing

Use a pen or a darker pencil to trace over your final lines. Erase any extra or sketchy lines. This step helps your drawing stand out and look clean.

Step 7: Add Color

Now it's time to color your butterfly. You can use colored pencils, crayons, or markers. Choose any color you like, or look at real butterflies for inspiration. Blend and layer colors for a more natural look.

Drawing a cartoon butterfly is fun and easy. This style is simpler and more playful than a realistic butterfly. Cartoon butterflies often have big eyes, a smiling face, and bold, bright wings. Here's a simple guide to help you draw your own.

Step 1: Draw the Body

Start with a vertical oval shape for the body in the middle of your paper. Make it slightly rounded at the top and bottom. Add two small circles on top of the oval to create cute eyes. Draw a smiling mouth just below the eyes.

Step 2: Draw the Antennae

From the top of the head, draw two curvy lines going upward. Add small circles or hearts at the tip of each antenna to make them fun and cute.

Step 3: Draw the Top Wings

Draw a big, rounded shape on each side of the top of the body. These will be the upper wings. Think of them like big cloud shapes or half-heart shapes. Make sure both sides match.

Step 4: Draw the Bottom Wings

Now draw the lower wings. These should be smaller than the top wings. Start at the lower part of the body and make round or teardrop shapes. Keep the wings even on both sides.

Step 5: Add Fun Patterns

Inside the wings, draw some simple patterns like circles, stars, or hearts. You can also add small lines or swirls. Cartoon butterflies often have fun and playful designs.

Step 6: Outline Your Drawing

Use a black pen or marker to trace your final lines. Erase any pencil marks that you don't need. This will make your drawing look bold and clean.

Step 7: Color Your Cartoon Butterfly

Use bright and fun colors to make your cartoon butterfly stand out. You can color the wings in rainbow colors or pick your favorite shades. Don't forget to color the eyes and add a little pink to the cheeks for extra cuteness.

With these easy steps, you now know how to draw a butterfly in both realistic and cartoon styles. Try both and have fun practicing!