My goal with this tutorial is not only to teach the basics of drawing dragons, but also what it takes to create fantastic designs based on your own imagination. To create a mythical being like dragons, it is first necessary to visualize what you want to show in its creation. Is it a powerful, aggressive being, born in fury and destruction? Or is he a pious being, a guardian, protector of thousands of wisdoms waiting for a worthy hero? Once you create a base story, your design will flow smoothly.
Types of dragons and their shapes!
You must learn that there are different variations and types of dragons to explore, not just the typical European dragon with four legs and two wings. You can free your imagination, add and remove proportions that make your creature interesting. Wyvern, Drake, Wyrm, etc. All of them with different shapes and proportions. You can even create your own variations. Who says a dragon can only have a certain number of members?
Head
So let's start from the beginning.
For the head you will only need a circle as a guide. You don't need to bother with many details in this step, only the basic shape. Once that is done, you just have to follow that guide, delete the sketch once you have the lineart, and finally add the details like the fangs and horns. There is a lot of shapes you can try!
Horns
The horns are an important part of the dragons. They are the crowns of their species. No doubt there are hundreds of designs you can create.
Use simple geometric shapes for the base of the horns, BUT do not limit yourself to the simple two traditional horns. Small and large, the horns can adopt any shape you want!
Legs
I will not lie to you, draw the limbs are something difficult to achieve. It takes practice, but it not something impossible. Do not be afraid to use references of real animals to help you! There are many ways in which you can draw the legs of a dragon. You can add pads too!
Wings
For the wings, I recommend you look for references of bats, since the wings of a dragon are based on those of these small mammals. After learning how to draw the basic shape feel free to experiment and create your own variations. Don't forget the little thumb that sticks out in the middle of the wings. It is an important anatomical detail!
Scales
There are many ways that you can draw the scales. With time and practice you will be able to create different types for each dragon. You don't need to draw scales all over the body, just details here and there to add appeal to your creature. Also try to vary. You don't have to use just one type of scale on your dragon, but try not to use that many either.
I also recommend looking for brushes in CSP assets. There are many brushes that can help you speed up the process.
Let's build our dragon!
Now we just have to put together what we have learned to create our dragon. Let's plays with different shapes and figures. Have fun with anatomy. Maybe the first time you will not achieve the result you expected, but that is normal. You need practice and patience. Do your best!
This is just a basic tutorial. There is still much more to learn, but I hope this has helped you. Remember: practice will be your great ally, don't be afraid to use references, and let your imagination help you with the rest!
Note: All the drawings presented in this post are mine
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