How to Draw a Wave
So you want to learn how to draw a wave like you'd see in a rough ocean? 'Cause that's what we're diving into today! Grab your trusty pencil, some drawing paper, and maybe add some crayons or colored pencils for a splash of color. A black marker is cool too if you've got one.
Prepare for a wave of inspiration, my fellow artists, because the fun is about to begin!
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Level: Intermediate
Materials
- Pencil
- Drawing Paper
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Black Marker (optional)
Lesson: How to Draw a Wave
Today, we're drawing waves in our beach and sea themed lesson. We'll break down the process into 15 steps, focusing on capturing a variety of wave shapes. Pay attention to details like the cresting patterns and water movement. With each step, your wave drawing will come to life right in front of your eyes. Let's get those pencils moving and create some crashing waves on paper!
Outline the Curl of the Wave
Begin by creating a large, curved line to form the main curl of a breaking wave.
Form the Wave Crest
Draw a wavy curved line that dips down to create the highest point of the wave called the crest.
Add the Wave’s Whitewater
Add the foamy part of the wave known as white water by forming the curling shape connected to the crest.
Draw a Smaller Wave
Draw a smaller breaking wave in front by creating a shorter curving line.
Outline the Whitewater
Outline the whitewater of the smaller breaking wave.
Add Another Wave
Add a wave in the opposite direction by drawing a curved line similar to the previous step.
Form the Whitewater
Form the whitewater of the wave by drawing a wavy, curling shape as shown.
Add Water Lines
Draw curved lines along the body of the breaking waves, following the shape of the curls.
Draw Water Splashes
Add small circles beneath the crest of the waves to outline the splashes of water.
Add Ripples to the Water
Add smaller waves and ripples to the body of water by drawing short wavy lines.
Outline the Clouds
Outline the bumpy shape of the clouds.
Shade the Water
Fill in the body of water using a vibrant shade of blue.
Fill in the Whitewater and Splashes
Fill in the whitewater of the waves and the tiny splashes of water with a very light shade of blue.
Color the Sky
Use light blue to fill in the sky.
Shade the Clouds
Shade the clouds with white.
Artist & Educator