Nativity Drawing
Merry Christmas, everyone! In this Nativity drawing lesson, we're gonna bring this beautiful story of hope and joy right onto your paper. You’ll learn step-by-step how create an unforgettable Nativity scene, complete with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and that shining Star of Bethlehem. No need for fancy supplies, just bring your pencils and crayons, and we’ll unlock your artistic potential together.
Throughout our lesson, we'll focus on simple shapes and gradually add detailed elements. We'll explore using different shades, from warm peach tones for skin and light blues for Mary's robes, down through rich browns for our stable. By following my guidance, you’ll not only see your drawing come together but also gain confidence along your creative journey. So let’s get started on crafting something truly special this Christmas season!
Estimated Time: 100 minutes
Level: Advanced
Materials
- Pencil
- Drawing Paper
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Black Marker (optional)
Lesson: Nativity Drawing
Ready for an inspiring drawing adventure? In this Nativity drawing lesson, you'll follow along with me through 30 clear steps that break down how you can create your own beautiful Nativity scene. We’ll start by building basic shapes and outlines, then add those rich, meaningful symbols that bring this cherished story of Baby Jesus, Mary, and Joseph right onto your paper. From crafting that cozy stable structure and capturing detailed clothing elements, all while focusing on color choices that enhance your work, this lesson has it all. Keep scrolling down, and let's get started!
Form the Straw Roof
Start by forming the straw roof of the stable. Then, draw short, pointy lines to add texture to the roof.
Add the Walls
Add two wooden walls on both ends of the stable.
Draw Baby Jesus
Draw a curved line to outline baby Jesus’ head. Next, add two U-shaped lines for the eyes. Then, draw a small curved line for the nose.
Form the Cloth
Form the cloth wrapped around baby Jesus’ body.
Outline the Halo
Outline the ring-shaped halo above baby Jesus’ head.
Draw the Hay Bedding
Draw the hay bedding where baby Jesus is laying.
Add the Manger
Outline the shape of the manger. Then, draw short horizontal lines to add the wooden texture of the manger.
Form Joseph’s Eyes and Nose
Draw two circles and a curved line to form Joseph’s eyes and nose.
Add the Beard
Add the shape of Joseph’s thick beard below the nose.
Outline the Head
Outline Joseph’s head by drawing two lines.
Form the Headscarf
Form the headscarf wrapped around Joseph’s head.
Draw the Tunic
Draw the long tunic Joseph is wearing. Add short, curving lines to emphasize the folds of the fabric.
Attach the Sleeves
Attach the long sleeves of Joseph’s tunic.
Form the Hands
Form the shape of Joseph’s hands as shown.
Outline the Cane
Outline the tall cane Joseph is holding.
Draw the Bottom of the Tunic
Draw the bottom of the Joseph’s tunic draping to the floor.
Form Mary’s Face
Draw a U-shaped outline of Mary’s face. Next, add two circular eyes. Then, draw short, curved lines to form the nose and mouth.
Outline the Veil
Outline the shape of Mary’s veil.
Draw the Hair
Draw Mary’s hair by creating a curvy line.
Form the Sleeves
Form the long sleeves of Mary’s robe.
Attach the Hands
Attach Mary’s hands to the ends of the sleeves. Make sure to erase extra lines.
Outline the Robe
Outline Mary’s long robe.
Draw the Star of Bethlehem
Draw the outline of the Star of Bethlehem above the stable.
Color the Skin and Eyes
Color the skin with peach, and the eyes with black.
Shade Baby Jesus’ Cloth
Use a cream color to shade the cloth wrapped around baby Jesus’ body.
Fill in the Hair
Fill in Mary and Joseph’s hair with brown.
Add Color to the Cane, Stable and Manger
Color the cane with a dark shade of orange. Next, fill in the roof of the stable and the hay bedding with light brown. Then, use dark brown to color the walls of the stable and the manger.
Shade Mary’s Clothes
Use light shades of blue to color Mary’s veil and robe.
Fill in Joseph’s Clothes
Fill in Joseph’s headscarf with light green and gray. Then, color the tunic with dark shades of green.
Color the Star and Halo
Color the Star of Bethlehem and baby Jesus’ halo with bright yellow.
Artist & Educator