5 Simple Steps to Master Cartoon Doodle Art Techniques

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 20 June 2023 5 min read

Mastering cartoon doodle art techniques is easier than you might think. With some practice and dedication, anyone can create fun, eye-catching characters and scenes. In this blog, we'll guide you through five simple steps to help you become a cartoon doodle artist—starting with basic shapes, mastering the fundamentals, developing your own style, mastering coloring and shading, and finally, sharing your work with the world.

Step 1: Start with Simple Shapes

When learning cartoon doodle art, it's vital to begin with simple shapes. These basic building blocks will serve as the foundation for your characters and scenes.

Circle, Triangle, Square

Start by practicing drawing the three basic shapes: circles, triangles, and squares. As you become comfortable with these shapes, you can use them to create more complex forms. For example, a circle can represent a character's head, while triangles can be used for noses or ears. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Combining Shapes

Once you've mastered drawing individual shapes, it's time to combine them to create cartoon doodle art characters. Experiment with different combinations and arrangements—think of it as a puzzle or a game. You'll be surprised at how many unique characters you can create just by mixing and matching shapes.

Practice Consistently

Consistent practice is key to improving your cartoon doodle art skills. Set aside time each day or week to draw, even if it's just for a few minutes. Over time, you'll see your skills progress and your doodles become more polished and complex.

Step 2: Master the Basics

After getting comfortable with simple shapes, it's time to focus on mastering the basics of cartoon doodle art. This includes understanding anatomy, line quality, and proportions. Let's dive into each of these concepts:

Understanding Anatomy

Although cartoon doodle art characters are often stylized, having a basic understanding of anatomy will help you create more believable and dynamic characters. Start by studying the human body and its various parts, such as arms, legs, and facial features. Pay attention to how joints bend and how muscles move. This knowledge will help you create more realistic and expressive doodles.

Line Quality

Line quality refers to the thickness, smoothness, and consistency of the lines you draw. In cartoon doodle art, line quality can greatly impact the overall appearance of your characters. To improve your line quality, practice drawing smooth, confident lines by varying the pressure and speed of your pen or pencil. Experiment with different line weights to add depth and visual interest to your doodles.

Proportions

Proportions are essential in creating believable cartoon doodle art characters. To master proportions, observe how different body parts relate to one another in size and placement. For example, a character's eyes might be halfway down their head, and their arms might be roughly the same length as their legs. Keep these relationships in mind as you draw, and don't be afraid to exaggerate proportions for a more stylized look.

Step 3: Develop Your Own Style

Once you've mastered the basics of cartoon doodle art, it's time to develop your own unique style. This will set your work apart from others and make your doodles instantly recognizable. Here's how to cultivate your own artistic voice:

Study Cartoonists

Take some time to study various cartoonists and their work. Look at different styles, techniques, and approaches to cartoon doodle art. Pay attention to what resonates with you and what doesn't. This will help you identify elements that you want to incorporate into your own style. Remember, it's okay to be inspired by other artists, but always strive to make your work uniquely yours.

Experiment with Styles

Don't be afraid to try out different styles and techniques in your cartoon doodle art. Experiment with various line weights, shading methods, and character designs. This will not only help you find your own style, but it will also improve your overall artistic skills. Plus, it's always fun to explore new ways of creating!

Create Unique Characters

One of the best ways to develop your own style in cartoon doodle art is to create unique characters. Think about their personalities, backstories, and appearances. This will help you design characters that are not only visually interesting, but also engaging and memorable. As you continue to create characters, your style will naturally evolve and become more distinct.

Step 4: Master Coloring and Shading

Coloring and shading are important aspects of cartoon doodle art, as they can bring your drawings to life and add depth to your work. Here are some tips to help you master these techniques:

Color Theory

Understanding color theory is essential for creating visually appealing cartoon doodle art. Familiarize yourself with the color wheel, complementary colors, and color harmony. This knowledge will help you choose the right colors for your doodles and make them stand out. Don't forget to experiment with different color combinations and see what works best for your style.

Copic Markers

Copic markers are a popular choice among cartoonists and illustrators for their vibrant colors and excellent blending capabilities. They can be a great tool for coloring your cartoon doodle art, especially if you prefer working with traditional media. Invest in a set of Copic markers and practice using them to color your doodles. You'll soon discover the amazing effects you can achieve with these versatile markers.

Digital Coloring

If you prefer working digitally, there are plenty of tools and software available for coloring and shading your cartoon doodle art. Programs like Photoshop and Procreate offer a wide range of brushes, textures, and effects that can help you achieve the perfect look for your doodles. Spend some time exploring these tools and experimenting with different techniques to enhance your digital coloring skills.

Sharing your cartoon doodle art with others is a great way to gain feedback, improve your skills, and even build a community of like-minded artists. Here are some ideas on how to showcase your work and connect with other doodle enthusiasts:

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be excellent places to share your cartoon doodle art. Post your doodles regularly and engage with your followers by responding to comments and questions. Use relevant hashtags and participate in art challenges to increase your visibility and connect with other artists. Remember, consistency is key to growing your online presence.

Art Galleries

If you feel confident in your cartoon doodle art skills, consider submitting your work to local art galleries or exhibitions. This can be a fantastic opportunity to showcase your talent and get your art in front of a larger audience. Plus, it's a great way to network with other artists and art enthusiasts in your community.

Join Art Communities

Online art communities and forums can offer valuable resources, feedback, and support for your cartoon doodle art journey. Websites like DeviantArt, ArtStation, and Behance are just a few examples of platforms where artists can share their work, exchange ideas, and learn from each other. By joining these communities, you'll not only improve your skills but also make lasting connections with fellow doodlers.

If you're eager to enhance your character design skills, don't miss out on the workshop 'How to Draw Beautiful Character Designs from Scratch' by Trey Zimmerman. This workshop will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need to create captivating and unique character designs from the ground up.