Discover the Best How To Draw Books

Are you looking to improve your drawing skills? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, a good book on how to draw can be a valuable resource. From step-by-step tutorials to in-depth guides on technique and style, there are countless how to draw books out there to help you hone your craft. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about how to draw, covering everything from figure drawing to manga illustration. So, grab your sketchbook and get ready to take your art to the next level with these essential resources!

20 Best How To Draw Books

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain

by Betty Edwards

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards is a groundbreaking book on how to draw that challenges traditional methods and encourages readers to tap into their creative potential. Edwards introduces the concept of “R-mode” thinking, which is associated with creativity, intuition, and visual perception. Through various exercises and techniques, she helps readers shift from left-brain thinking, which is analytical and logical, to right-brain thinking, which is holistic and intuitive.

This book about how to draw emphasizes the importance of perception and observation, teaching readers to see the world in a new way and translate that onto paper. Edwards also explores the psychological barriers that may inhibit artistic expression and provides strategies for overcoming them. With its practical guidance and inspirational approach, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain has empowered countless aspiring artists to unlock their drawing potential and gain confidence in their abilities.

Keys to Drawing

by Bert Dodson

Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson is a comprehensive and practical guide to the art of drawing. This insightful book on how to draw is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, as it provides a step-by-step approach to mastering the fundamental principles of drawing. Dodson’s clear and engaging writing style, combined with numerous illustrations and exercises, makes this book about how to draw an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their drawing skills.

Readers will learn about the key concepts of line, shape, form, value, and space, and how to apply them to create dynamic and expressive drawings. Whether you want to learn how to draw people, animals, landscapes, or still life, this how to draw book covers it all. With Keys to Drawing, you’ll gain the confidence and techniques needed to take your drawing to the next level. So, if you’re looking for a practical and inspiring guide to drawing, this is the book for you.

The Natural Way to Draw

by Kimon Nicolaides

The Natural Way to Draw by Kimon Nicolaides is a classic book on the art of drawing that emphasizes the importance of learning through observation and practice. This renowned book on how to draw provides a unique approach that focuses on developing the artist’s ability to see and interpret the world around them. Nicolaides’ method encourages students to draw from life, using techniques such as gesture drawing and contour drawing to capture the essence of a subject. Through a series of progressive exercises and assignments, the book guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. It is not just a book about how to draw, but a philosophy of learning to see and understand the world in a new way. The Natural Way to Draw is a must-read for aspiring artists, as well as anyone looking to develop their drawing skills and artistic vision.

Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth

by Andrew Loomis

Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth by Andrew Loomis is a classic book on how to draw that has been a staple for artists since its publication in 1943. Loomis, a renowned illustrator, provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of figure drawing, offering valuable insights and techniques for capturing the human form with precision and skill.

Readers will find a wealth of practical advice, from understanding anatomy and proportion to mastering the use of light and shadow to create lifelike figures. Loomis’s clear and instructive approach makes this book about how to draw an indispensable resource for both beginners and experienced artists looking to enhance their drawing abilities.

With its detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions, Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth is a must-have how to draw book that will inspire and empower artists to bring their figures to life on the page with confidence and proficiency.

Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner

by Claire Watson Garcia

Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner by Claire Watson Garcia is a comprehensive book on how to draw that is perfect for anyone looking to develop their artistic skills from the ground up. Garcia’s approach is accessible and encouraging, making it an ideal resource for those who may feel intimidated by the prospect of learning to draw.

The book covers essential techniques such as line, shape, form, and perspective, providing clear and detailed instructions accompanied by helpful illustrations. Garcia also emphasizes the importance of practice and experimentation, encouraging readers to embrace their mistakes as part of the learning process.

Whether you’re a complete novice or simply looking to refine your skills, this book about how to draw offers a solid foundation for aspiring artists. With its friendly tone and practical guidance, Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner is a valuable resource for anyone eager to explore the world of drawing.

The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain

by Betty Edwards

The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards is a transformative book on how to draw that has helped millions of people tap into their creative potential. Edwards introduces the concept of drawing from the right side of the brain, emphasizing perception over preconceived notions of what things should look like. Through a series of exercises and techniques, she guides readers to see the world in a new way, enabling them to capture what they see with accuracy and depth.

This book about how to draw offers practical advice on mastering the basics of drawing, such as proportion, perspective, and shading, while also delving into the psychological and emotional aspects of the artistic process. Edwards’ approach is accessible and encouraging, making it suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike. Whether you’re looking to improve your drawing skills or embark on a creative journey, The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain is an essential resource for anyone seeking to develop their artistic abilities.

Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters

by Robert Beverly Hale

Looking to enhance your drawing skills? Robert Beverly Hale’s Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters is the ultimate guide for aspiring artists. This captivating book on how to draw delves into the techniques and wisdom of the most celebrated artists in history, including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt. Through detailed analysis and step-by-step instructions, Hale provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of drawing, from capturing the human form to mastering light and shadow.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned artist, this book about how to draw offers valuable insights and practical exercises to help you refine your artistic abilities. With its rich illustrations and insightful commentary, Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters is a timeless resource for anyone seeking to elevate their drawing skills to new heights. Dive into the world of art and let the great masters guide you on your journey to becoming a proficient draftsman.

Drawing the Head and Hands

by Andrew Loomis

Andrew Loomis’ Drawing the Head and Hands is a classic book on how to draw that provides a comprehensive guide for artists looking to master the intricacies of facial features and hand anatomy. With clear and detailed instructions, Loomis breaks down the complexities of capturing the human head and hands with precision and skill. This book about how to draw covers everything from basic proportions to advanced techniques, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.

Through step-by-step demonstrations and insightful tips, Loomis offers invaluable insights into the structure, form, and expression of the head and hands, empowering artists to create lifelike and expressive portraits. Whether you’re interested in portraiture, figure drawing, or character design, this how to draw book is an essential resource for honing your abilities and elevating your artwork to the next level.

The Artist’s Complete Guide to Figure Drawing

by Anthony Ryder

The Artist’s Complete Guide to Figure Drawing by Anthony Ryder is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their drawing skills. This comprehensive book on how to draw provides step-by-step instructions and practical tips for mastering the art of figure drawing. Ryder’s clear and insightful guidance will help you develop your understanding of human anatomy, proportions, and movement, enabling you to create lifelike and dynamic figures in your artwork. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this book about how to draw is an invaluable tool for honing your skills and expanding your artistic repertoire. With its detailed illustrations and thorough explanations, The Artist’s Complete Guide to Figure Drawing offers a wealth of knowledge that will inspire and empower you to take your figure drawing to the next level.

Perspective Made Easy

by Ernest R. Norling

Perspective Made Easy by Ernest R. Norling is a comprehensive and accessible guide for anyone looking to master the art of representing depth and dimension in their drawings. This book on how to draw breaks down the often intimidating concept of perspective into clear, practical techniques that are easy to understand and apply.

Norling’s straightforward and engaging writing style, accompanied by numerous illustrations and examples, makes learning about perspective a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced artist, this book about how to draw offers valuable insights and tips for creating realistic and compelling compositions.

With a focus on both the technical aspects of perspective and its creative applications, Perspective Made Easy equips readers with the tools they need to confidently tackle complex spatial relationships and bring their artwork to life. Whether you’re interested in drawing landscapes, cityscapes, or interior spaces, this how to draw book is an invaluable resource for honing your skills and expanding your artistic repertoire.

Drawing People: How to Portray the Clothed Figure

by Barbara Bradley

Looking to enhance your artistic skills in portraying the human form? Look no further than Drawing People: How to Portray the Clothed Figure by Barbara Bradley. This comprehensive guide is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about capturing the essence of the clothed figure on paper. Bradley’s expertise shines through as she expertly navigates the complexities of depicting people in various attire, providing invaluable insights and techniques for artists of all levels.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced artist seeking to refine your skills, this book about how to draw is a must-have addition to your collection. With detailed instructions, helpful tips, and inspiring examples, Drawing People equips you with the tools to bring your artistic visions to life with confidence and precision. Dive into the world of figure drawing and unlock your potential with this essential resource.

Drawing for the Absolute Beginner: A Clear & Easy Guide to Successful Drawing

by Mark Willenbrink and Mary Willenbrink

Looking to learn the art of drawing but not sure where to start? Look no further than Drawing for the Absolute Beginner: A Clear & Easy Guide to Successful Drawing by Mark Willenbrink and Mary Willenbrink. This comprehensive book on how to draw is perfect for anyone who wants to tap into their creative side and develop their drawing skills.

Mark and Mary Willenbrink provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for beginners, making it easy for anyone to pick up a pencil and start drawing. From mastering basic shapes to capturing light and shadow, this how to draw book covers it all in an accessible and engaging way.

Whether you’re interested in sketching landscapes, still life, or portraits, this book about how to draw will guide you through the process with confidence. With plenty of exercises and projects to practice, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can improve your drawing skills.

So, if you’ve always wanted to learn how to draw, grab a copy of Drawing for the Absolute Beginner and unleash your artistic potential today!

The Complete Book of Drawing Techniques: A Complete Guide for the Artist

by Peter Stanyer

The Complete Book of Drawing Techniques: A Complete Guide for the Artist by Peter Stanyer is a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to improve their drawing skills. This book on how to draw covers a wide range of techniques, from basic pencil drawing to more advanced methods such as shading, perspective, and composition. Stanyer provides clear and concise instructions, accompanied by helpful illustrations, making it easy for readers to follow along and apply the techniques to their own work.

Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced artist, this book about how to draw offers valuable insights and practical tips to help you develop your artistic abilities. Stanyer’s approach is both informative and inspirational, encouraging readers to experiment and explore their own unique style. With its wealth of information and guidance, The Complete Book of Drawing Techniques is an essential addition to any artist’s library, providing a solid foundation for honing your drawing skills and unleashing your creative potential.

The Drawing Book for Kids: 365 Daily Things to Draw, Step by Step

by Woo! Jr. Kids Activities

The Drawing Book for Kids: 365 Daily Things to Draw, Step by Step by Woo! Jr. Kids Activities is an engaging and interactive book on how to draw for children. This comprehensive book about how to draw provides young artists with a year’s worth of inspiration and guidance. With 365 drawing prompts, kids can explore a wide variety of subjects and develop their drawing skills day by day.

The book includes step-by-step instructions and easy-to-follow illustrations, making it perfect for beginners. Each prompt encourages creativity and imagination, allowing children to express themselves through art while learning essential drawing techniques. Whether it’s animals, objects, or nature, this how to draw book offers a diverse range of subjects to keep young artists inspired and motivated.

With The Drawing Book for Kids, children can cultivate a love for art and develop their drawing abilities in a fun and enjoyable way. This book is an excellent resource for parents and educators looking to nurture a child’s creativity and artistic talent.

The Art of Urban Sketching: Drawing On Location Around The World

by Gabriel Campanario

The Art of Urban Sketching: Drawing On Location Around The World by Gabriel Campanario is a captivating exploration of the world through the eyes of urban sketchers. This visually stunning book showcases the work of talented artists who capture the essence and energy of cities and towns through their sketches. With an emphasis on the beauty of imperfection and the spontaneity of on-location drawing, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration for both seasoned artists and beginners alike.

Through insightful tips and techniques, the book serves as a guide for aspiring urban sketchers, offering practical advice on how to capture the essence of urban landscapes in all their diversity. Whether you’re a novice looking to develop your drawing skills or an experienced artist seeking fresh perspectives, The Art of Urban Sketching is a rich resource that celebrates the joy of creating art on location.

This book on how to draw is a celebration of creativity and an invitation to see the world through the eyes of urban sketchers, making it an essential addition to any artist’s library.

The Complete Book of Drawing

by Barrington Barber

The Complete Book of Drawing by Barrington Barber is a comprehensive and accessible guide for anyone looking to develop their drawing skills. This book on how to draw covers everything from the basics of mark-making and shading to more advanced techniques such as perspective and composition. With clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, Barber makes the process of learning to draw engaging and achievable for all skill levels.

Readers will find practical exercises and inspiring examples that will help them build confidence and improve their artistic abilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, this book about how to draw is a valuable resource that will inspire and guide you on your drawing journey. With its practical approach and emphasis on developing one’s artistic expression, The Complete Book of Drawing is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their drawing abilities.

Art of Drawing: The Complete Course

by David Sanmiguel

Art of Drawing: The Complete Course by David Sanmiguel is a comprehensive and engaging book on how to draw, perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. This book about how to draw covers everything from basic drawing techniques to more advanced concepts, providing a complete course for honing your artistic skills.

Sanmiguel’s clear and concise instructions are accompanied by beautiful illustrations that demonstrate each step of the drawing process. With a focus on understanding the fundamentals of drawing, this how-to-draw book will help you develop your own unique style while mastering essential techniques such as perspective, shading, and composition.

Whether you’re interested in sketching, figure drawing, or still life, Art of Drawing has something for everyone. The book’s organized structure and progressive exercises make it easy to follow along and track your improvement over time. If you’re looking to enhance your drawing abilities and unleash your creativity, this is the ultimate guide to help you achieve your artistic goals.

The Complete Guide to Drawing from Life

by George Bridgman

The Complete Guide to Drawing from Life by George Bridgman is a comprehensive book on how to draw that provides a detailed exploration of the human form. Bridgman, a renowned artist and teacher, offers a wealth of knowledge and insights on capturing the human figure with accuracy and skill. This book about how to draw covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, proportion, gesture, and form, making it an invaluable resource for artists of all levels.

Readers will find Bridgman’s instructional approach to be thorough and accessible, with step-by-step demonstrations and clear explanations throughout. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your drawing skills or an experienced artist seeking to refine your technique, this how to draw book is sure to inspire and inform. With its emphasis on observing and interpreting the human body, The Complete Guide to Drawing from Life is an essential addition to any artist’s library.

The Big Book of Realistic Drawing Secrets

by Carrie Stuart Parks

The Big Book of Realistic Drawing Secrets by Carrie Stuart Parks is a comprehensive guide for aspiring artists looking to improve their drawing skills. This book is a treasure trove of insider tips and techniques, offering a step-by-step approach to mastering the art of drawing. With a focus on realism, Parks covers a wide range of subjects, from portraits and figures to landscapes and still life. The book is designed to help readers develop their observational skills, understand perspective, and create lifelike compositions. With clear and concise instructions, as well as plenty of illustrative examples, this book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to hone their drawing abilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your craft, The Big Book of Realistic Drawing Secrets has something for everyone. This book about how to draw is a must-have for anyone serious about improving their drawing abilities.

The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Drawing: More than 200 drawing techniques, tips & lessons

by Walter Foster Creative Team

The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Drawing is a comprehensive book on how to draw that is perfect for aspiring artists of all levels. Written by the Walter Foster Creative Team, this book is packed with over 200 drawing techniques, tips, and lessons to help you develop your skills and create stunning artwork.

Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience with drawing, this book about how to draw provides clear and easy-to-follow instructions that cover a wide range of topics, from basic drawing fundamentals to more advanced techniques. With step-by-step tutorials and helpful demonstrations, you’ll learn how to create realistic and expressive drawings in no time.

From sketching and shading to perspective and composition, The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Drawing has everything you need to unleash your creativity and improve your artistic abilities. With its practical advice and inspiring examples, this how to draw book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to master the art of drawing.

Final Thoughts on Best How To Draw Books

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, these 20 best books about How To Draw will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From step-by-step tutorials to expert tips and techniques, each book offers a unique approach to honing your drawing skills. Explore these titles and unleash your creativity on paper!

Which book about How To Draw is best?

The best book on How To Draw can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards,
  2. Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson,
  3. The Natural Way to Draw by Kimon Nicolaides.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about How To Draw?

For those looking to learn about How To Draw, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards,
  2. Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson,
  3. The Natural Way to Draw by Kimon Nicolaides,
  4. Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth by Andrew Loomis,
  5. Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner by Claire Watson Garcia,
  6. The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards,
  7. Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters by Robert Beverly Hale,
  8. Drawing the Head and Hands by Andrew Loomis,
  9. The Artist’s Complete Guide to Figure Drawing by Anthony Ryder,
  10. Perspective Made Easy by Ernest R. Norling

These books offer a range of perspectives on How To Draw, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about How To Draw?

The best books about How To Draw are:

  • Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards,
  • Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson,
  • Drawing People: How to Portray the Clothed Figure by Barbara Bradley,
  • Drawing for the Absolute Beginner: A Clear & Easy Guide to Successful Drawing by Mark Willenbrink and Mary Willenbrink,
  • Drawing the Head and Hands by Andrew Loomis,
  • The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about How To Draw are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best How To Draw books of all time?

Choosing the best How To Draw books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards,
  • Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson,
  • Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner by Claire Watson Garcia,
  • Drawing the Head and Hands by Andrew Loomis,
  • and Drawing People: How to Portray the Clothed Figure by Barbara Bradley.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of How To Draw and continues to be influential today.