Animals · A drawing idea for little artists
How to draw a cute lion: round mane and sitting paws
Start with two-point eyes and symmetrical muzzle.
For iPad & iPhone · In-app purchases
These 3 pictures show selected moments from the drawing. For every step in between and a guide on your canvas, get the full lesson in LittlePaper.
What you will learn
Practice this visual check: Compare the width of the mane to the width of the body, with both front feet side by side in the middle of the body.
Shapes and proportions
Start with two-point eyes and symmetrical mouth and nose. A circle of sharp arcs is used to surround the mane on the outside, the front legs are added to the central axis below, the hind legs are rounded on both sides, and finally a thin tail is connected.
A common mistake
If the mane is too small and the body is too long, it will weaken the cuteness of the big head sitting posture.
How to fix it
Compare the width of the mane to the width of the body, with both front feet side by side in the middle of the body.
These three images are key-stage previews: the starting shape, the completed outline, and a new crayon color study. Follow the complete drawing sequence in LittlePaper. On paper, leave room around the first shape for the parts added later.
A few things to start with
Paper, pencil or black drawing pen, eraser, and crayons or colored pencils for color matching for this lesson.
A little peek at the drawing
1 / 3
Selected stages · The complete drawing sequence is in the app.
Shapes, character & color
A look at the drawing stages.
Try the shape tips below on paper. When you’re ready to draw along with each small step, continue in LittlePaper.
- 01Selected stage
Position the basic shape first
Start with two-point eyes and symmetrical mouth and nose. Observe the position of the starting shape on the paper, leaving space for subsequent outlines and additional components.
Position the basic shape first · Preview image 1 of 3 - 02Selected stage
Connect profiles and arrange parts
Use a circle of sharp arcs to surround the mane on the outside, add the front legs to the central axis below, round the hind legs on both sides, and finally connect the thin tail. Compare the width of the body with the width of the mane, so that the front feet are side by side in the middle of the body.
Connect profiles and arrange parts · Preview image 2 of 3 - 03Selected stage
Select the color of the part to complete the crayon draft
The body and legs are golden, the mane and tail tips are brown, and the sides of the muzzle are creamy white. Apply the color first with light pressure, leaving the black outline, and then compare pairs of parts using the same color.
Select the color of the part to complete the crayon draft · Preview image 3 of 3
The next little step is yours
Like the idea?
Let’s make it together.
Open the “How to Draw a Cute Lion” drawing idea in LittlePaper for the complete sequence. Follow a guide, pause when you need, and add your own colors.
Download LittlePaper from the App Store, then open the drawing idea inside the app.
Every step, at your pace.
See the full drawing sequence. Pause, replay, and take another look whenever a shape needs practice.
A guide where you draw.
Trace on the canvas, then try your own lines with a finger or Apple Pencil on a compatible iPad.
Make it yours. Keep the making.
Add crayon color, replay your creation, and give your picture a home in a digital 3D book.
