Learn how to draw a loon swimming on water by starting with simple shapes and gradually adding smooth details and feather patterns.

Step 1:

Outline the loon’s width and height, draw two ovals for its head and body, and add a line for the beak.

Short tip: Keep the body oval long and low to match the loon’s floating posture.

Step 2:

Draw lines to guide the bird’s neck, body, and tail.

Short tip: Use smooth, flowing curves to give the loon a calm swimming motion.

Step 3:

Mark where the loon’s legs, wings, and mouth will go.

Short tip: Place the legs far back on the body — loons swim efficiently this way.

Step 4:

Draw shapes to show where the bird’s legs, wings, and beak will be.

Short tip: Keep the wing shape flat and streamlined along the body.

Step 5:

Draw the loon’s eye and tail, add patterns on its wings and body, and sketch the webbed feet.

Short tip: Simple dot and oval patterns work best for the loon’s feather markings.

Step 6:

Outline the feathers and add details to the loon’s body.

Short tip: Use short, light strokes to suggest feather texture without cluttering the drawing.

Step 7:

Outline the loon with thick and thin lines, add details and water, then erase all guidelines.

Short tip: Thicker outer lines and thinner inner details create a clean, finished look.