Step by step, you’ll learn how to draw a whale by starting with simple shapes and gradually adding fins, facial features, and final details.

STEP 1: Measure the Picture and Draw the Main Shapes

Measure the picture, draw two ovals for the whale’s head and body, and add a line down the center of the head to guide the facial features.

Short tip:
Light ovals help you adjust size and placement easily.

STEP 2: Draw the Body and Tail Area Shape

Extend the body shape and sketch the main form of the tail, keeping the lines long and smooth to show motion.

Short tip:
A stretched body shape gives the whale a graceful swimming look.

STEP 3: Draw Guide Lines for the Tail, Fins, and Mouth

Add guide lines to show where the tail flukes, fins, and mouth will be placed.

Short tip:
Use gentle curves instead of sharp angles for a natural flow.

STEP 4: Draw the Fins, Tail, and Chin Shapes

Refine the fins, tail, and chin, turning the guide lines into clear shapes.

Short tip:
Keep the fins simple and slightly curved for a relaxed pose.

STEP 5: Draw the Eye, Blowhole, Baleen, and Flipper Details

Add the whale’s eye, blowhole, baleen lines, and extra details on the flipper to bring the face to life.

Short tip:
Small details work best when added lightly and evenly.

STEP 6: Finish the Whale’s Details

Refine the entire whale by adding texture, shading lines, and final body details.

Short tip:
Follow the curve of the body when adding texture lines.

STEP 7: Final Outline and Cleanup

Outline the whale using thicker and thinner lines, add water details, and erase all remaining guidelines to complete the drawing.

Short tip:
Varying line weight makes the whale look clean and professional.