How to Draw a Hermit Crab

Today, we're gonna learn how to draw a hermit crab. This cute little critter is perfect for beginners. Trust me, you'll have a blast.
First things first, grab your pencil and drawing paper. We'll start with some simple shapes. Don't worry about making it perfect.
Next, we'll add details to bring our hermit crab to life. Use crayons or colored pencils for that extra wow-factor! A black marker can help outline if you got one.
This lesson will take about 50 minutes. So get comfy and let's get started! By the end, you'll have a cool hermit crab drawing to show off.
Ready? Let's do this! Follow my steps and you'll be amazed at what you can create.
Estimated Time: 50 minutes
Level: Intermediate
Materials
- Pencil
- Drawing Paper
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Black Marker (optional)
Lesson: How to Draw a Hermit Crab
Today we'll learn how to draw a hermit crab in 15 simple steps. Pay close attention to the shell's shape and the crab's little legs. We'll start with basic outlines and gradually add details. By the end, you'll have a cute hermit crab ready for some color. Grab your pencils and let's get drawing!
Outline the Head

First, outline the hermit crab’s oval-shaped head.
Draw the Eye Stalks

On the top part of its head, draw two short, curved lines extending upward to form the eye stalks. Then, add the rounded eyes at the end of each eye stalk. Make sure to erase overlapping lines.
Outline the Mouth

Below the eyes, draw a small curved line to outline the mouth.
Attach the Antennas

Attach the thin, long antennas around the mouth.
Draw the Shell Outline

Draw a large, bumpy shape for the shell of the hermit crab.
Add Shell’s Texture

Add curved lines along the shell to emphasize its bumpy texture.
Outline the Spots

Outline the oval-shaped spots on its shell.
Attach the Claw Segments

Attach the claw segments to the hermit crab’s body.
Form the Claws

Form the crab’s large, pointy claws as shown.
Add the Walking Legs

Add the thin and long walking legs.
Outline the Crab’s Underbelly

Draw a curved line to outline its underbelly.
Color the Eyes

FIll in the eyes with black and add a white shimmer.
Shade the Antennas

Shade the antennas with light yellow.
Add Color to the Hermit Crab’s Body

Use a vibrant orange color to fill in the hermit crab’s body. Then, fill in the tips of its claws and legs with dark brown.
Fill in the Shell

Fill in the shell with blue green. Then, use a lighter blue color for the spots on the shell.

Artist & Educator