Drawing a Troll from the DreamWorks Trolls movies is about capturing their exuberance, distinctive hairstyles, and overwhelming positivity. This guide, incorporating expert techniques and answering common questions, will help you bring these joyful creatures to life on paper.
Embracing the Troll Aesthetic: A Foundation for Success
The key to successfully drawing a Troll lies in understanding their core design principles. Trolls are essentially anthropomorphic dolls with oversized heads, small bodies, and brightly colored, gravity-defying hair. Their facial features are expressive and often exaggerated, emphasizing their emotions. The overall effect is one of playful energy and boundless optimism. Before you even pick up a pencil, internalize this aesthetic. Think round shapes, vibrant colors, and an unwavering commitment to happiness.
Laying the Groundwork: Basic Shapes and Proportions
Start with simple shapes. The head is typically a large oval or circle. The body, comparatively small, can be represented by a smaller oval or rectangle. Lightly sketch these foundational shapes, establishing the overall proportions of your Troll. Remember that exaggerated proportions are key; the head should dominate the figure. Next, draw guidelines for the facial features. A vertical line down the center of the face helps ensure symmetry, while horizontal lines indicate the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Defining the Features: Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
The eyes are arguably the most important feature, as they convey the Troll’s emotions. They are typically large, round, and expressive, often with prominent eyelashes. Draw the eyes first, focusing on capturing their sparkle and optimism. The nose is usually small and button-like, and the mouth is wide and often smiling. Emphasize the joyfulness of the expression. Consider adding details like eyebrows, which can further enhance the emotional impact.
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow… Never!: Mastering Troll Hair
Troll hair is their defining characteristic. It’s not just hair; it’s a statement! It’s big, bold, and defies gravity. Begin by sketching the general shape of the hairstyle you want to create. Consider the character you’re drawing. Poppy’s hair is usually styled in a voluminous updo, while Branch’s is often spiky and unkempt. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and styles. Use light, flowing lines to create the impression of volume and movement. Remember, color is crucial! Think bright, vibrant hues that capture the energy of the Trolls.
Clothing and Accessories: Adding Personality
Troll clothing is often simple and functional, but with a touch of flair. Poppy often wears a simple dress, while Branch favors vests and pants. Consider the character’s personality when choosing clothing. Add details like patches, buttons, or accessories to further enhance their individuality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Drawing Trolls
Here are answers to common questions that aspiring Troll artists often have:
FAQ 1: What drawing supplies are best for drawing Trolls?
The best supplies depend on your personal preference and skill level. For beginners, a set of pencils (HB, 2B, 4B) and a good quality eraser are sufficient. Colored pencils, markers, or watercolors can be used for adding color. Digital artists can use drawing tablets and software like Procreate or Photoshop. Experiment to find the tools that work best for you.
FAQ 2: How do I make the hair look like it’s standing up?
Use light, flowing lines that radiate outward from the head. Create a sense of volume by adding layers of lines. Pay attention to the shape and direction of the hair strands. Consider adding subtle shadows to create depth and dimension.
FAQ 3: What’s the best way to draw the Troll’s facial expressions?
Focus on the eyes and mouth. Exaggerate the size and shape of these features to emphasize the emotion. Use eyebrows to further enhance the expression. Study reference images of Trolls to understand how their facial features change with different emotions.
FAQ 4: How can I draw different Troll characters like Poppy, Branch, or Guy Diamond?
Pay attention to their unique features. Poppy has a signature updo and a perpetually optimistic expression. Branch is more serious and has spikier hair. Guy Diamond is covered in glitter and has a distinctive singing voice. Focus on these defining characteristics to differentiate the characters.
FAQ 5: How do I avoid making my Troll look flat and lifeless?
Add shading and highlights to create depth and dimension. Use light and shadow to define the form of the Troll. Pay attention to the direction of the light source. Experiment with different shading techniques, such as hatching, cross-hatching, and blending.
FAQ 6: What’s the secret to capturing the Troll’s positive energy?
Focus on the facial expression and body language. Draw them smiling, laughing, or dancing. Emphasize their joyfulness and enthusiasm. Use bright, vibrant colors to further enhance their positive energy.
FAQ 7: How can I improve my drawing skills in general?
Practice regularly and study the work of other artists. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. Watch tutorials, read books, and take classes. Most importantly, have fun!
FAQ 8: Where can I find reference images of Trolls?
Search online for screenshots from the Trolls movies or official artwork. Use these images as inspiration and guidance. Pay attention to the details of their design, such as their facial features, hairstyles, and clothing.
FAQ 9: How do I draw the Troll’s hands and feet?
Troll hands and feet are typically small and simple. Focus on the basic shapes and proportions. Don’t overcomplicate the details.
FAQ 10: Is it better to draw with pencil first and then add color, or vice versa?
It’s generally best to draw with pencil first, then add color. This allows you to establish the basic shapes and proportions before committing to color. You can always erase pencil lines after adding color.
FAQ 11: What’s the best way to learn how to draw if I’m a complete beginner?
Start with simple shapes and gradually work your way up to more complex designs. Focus on the fundamentals of drawing, such as perspective, proportion, and shading. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from more experienced artists.
FAQ 12: How do I draw the glitter effect on Guy Diamond?
Use small, sparkling dots and lines to create the impression of glitter. Experiment with different colors and densities to achieve the desired effect. Consider using glitter pens or markers for a more realistic look. You can also achieve this digitally with scattering brushes.
Beyond the Basics: Refining Your Troll Art
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start experimenting with more advanced techniques. Consider adding more detailed backgrounds, incorporating more complex poses, and exploring different art styles. The possibilities are endless! The most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity shine.
Embracing Imperfection: The Charm of Hand-Drawn Art
Don’t strive for perfection. The beauty of hand-drawn art lies in its imperfections. Embrace the quirks and irregularities that make your art unique. Remember, the goal is to capture the spirit of the Trolls, not to create a perfect replica.
Finding Your Style: Developing a Unique Voice
As you continue to draw Trolls, you’ll develop your own unique style. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and approaches. Find what works best for you and let your personality shine through in your art.
Conclusion: Keep Spreading the Happiness!
Drawing Trolls is a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips and techniques, you can bring these joyful creatures to life on paper and share their positivity with the world. So grab your pencils, embrace your creativity, and start drawing! Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and spread the happiness!