How to Draw a Coffin
In this drawing lesson, we will focus on how-to draw a coffin. This will be a perfect drawing assignment for Halloween!
We’ll go step-by-step, starting with the coffin lid outline and moving on through each part: the base, the cushioned interior, and that chilling yet intriguing hand reaching out from inside. I’ll guide you on how using a ruler can give you that crisp look while showing you how erasing helps clarify your work. You’re gonna feel like a true artist by the end of this lesson!
To spice things up, we’ll add some colors too. The dark grays for the exterior will give depth, while the reds will bring attention inside the coffin. I’ll teach you how layering subtle shades can make all the difference. So gear up for a creative session and let’s turn your blank paper into some spooky artwork!
Estimated Time: 40 minutes
Level: Beginner
Materials
- Blank Paper
- Pencil
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Ruler (is helpful)
Lesson: How to Draw a Coffin
Ready for a spooky drawing adventure? In this lesson, we're breaking down how you can draw a coffin. You'll learn step-by-step techniques that make it easy, even if you're just starting out. We’ll focus on outlining shapes, adding a few extra details, and using color effectively, from dark gray exteriors and rich red interiors, right down the hand reaching out with those long, curling fingers. Scary! Plus, we'll throw on some text and a holy cross for that extra coffin-like touch. Keep your ruler handy and your eraser close; you’re gonna want clean lines! Let’s get started!
Outline the Lid
First, outline the shape of the coffin’s lid. Use a ruler to help straighten your lines.
Form the Side of the Lid
Form the side of the coffin’s lid as shown.
Draw the Opening
Draw the opening of the coffin below the lid.
Form the Base
Form the shape of the coffin’s base similar to the illustration.
Add the Interior
Add the cushioned interior of the coffin by creating a bumpy line.
Draw a Hand
Draw a hand with long, curling fingers reaching out from inside the coffin. Be sure to erase extra lines.
Write RIP
Write the outline of the text “RIP” on the coffin’s lid.
Outline a Holy Cross
Outline a holy cross below the text.
Color the Coffin’s Exterior
Color the outer edges of the lid and the exterior of the coffin’s base with dark shades of gray.
Shade the Lid
Color the text and holy cross with white. Then, use a light shade of gray to color the rest of the lid.
Add Color to the Hand
Use green to color the hand.
Fill in the Interior
Fill in the interior with shades of red.
Artist & Educator