Learn How to Draw Anime Eyes in 9 Very Simple Steps

Before we dive into the blog, it's important to understand the basic anatomy of anime eyes. Anime eyes are often exaggerated, with large, expressive pupils and colourful irises. They can convey a wide range of emotions and add depth to the characters.

Now, let's explore each step in more detail:

Step 1: Sketch the Eyelid

Start by lightly sketching an outline of the upper eyelid. The shape will vary depending on the expression you want to convey. Anime eyes can range from round and innocent to sharp and intense.

Consider the character's personality and mood. Are they cheerful and optimistic characters? In that case, you may want to create a gentle curve for the upper eyelid, giving the eyes a friendly and inviting look. On the other hand, if the character is mysterious or mischievous, you might opt for a sharper and more angled upper eyelid, adding a sense of intrigue to their gaze.

Step 2: Add the Iris

Next, draw a circle in the middle of the eye for the iris. Remember to leave enough space around the iris for the eyelashes and other details.

The size of the iris can also contribute to the overall expression of the eye. A larger iris can make the eyes appear more innocent and childlike, while a smaller iris can give a sense of intensity and focus.

Step 3: Draw the Pupil

Inside the iris, draw a smaller circle to represent the pupil. The size and shape of the pupil can affect the overall expression of the eye.

Consider the lighting conditions in your artwork. If the character is in a well-lit environment, the pupil may appear smaller due to the constriction of the iris. On the other hand, if the character is in a dimly lit room or experiencing strong emotions, the pupil may dilate, appearing larger and more expressive.

Step 4: Detail the Eyelid

Now, it's time to add more detail to the eyelid. Pay attention to the curves and lines, as they can enhance the expression and personality of the character.

Consider the thickness of the eyelid. Thicker eyelids can give a softer and more innocent appearance, while thinner eyelids can create a sharper and more intense look. Additionally, adding subtle creases or folds to the eyelid can add depth and realism to your drawing.

Step 5: Add Eyelashes

Eyelashes can make the eyes appear more dynamic and expressive. Experiment with different lengths and styles to find what suits your character best.

Think about the character's gender and personality when drawing the eyelashes. For female characters, longer and more curved eyelashes can enhance their femininity and grace. Male characters, on the other hand, may have shorter and straighter eyelashes, giving them a more natural and understated appearance.

Step 6: Draw the Eyebrows

Next, draw the eyebrows above the eyes. The shape and angle of the eyebrows can convey different emotions, so take your time to get them right.

Consider the character's personality and the expression you want to portray. Arched eyebrows can give a sense of surprise or curiosity, while straight eyebrows can convey a more serious or neutral expression. Experiment with different shapes and angles to find the perfect match for your character.

Step 7: Add Shading and Highlights

To make the eyes look more realistic, add shading and highlights. This will give them depth and make them pop. Pay attention to the direction of light to make the shading more accurate.

Consider the light source in your artwork. Is it coming from above, below, or from the side? Use this information to determine where the shadows and highlights should fall on the eyes. Adding subtle shading around the eyelids and beneath the eyebrows can create a sense of depth, while highlighting the iris and the reflection of light can make the eyes appear more vibrant and lifelike.

Step 8: Refine and Clean Up

Take a moment to refine the lines and clean up any smudges or mistakes. Use an eraser to remove any unwanted pencil marks and make the lines crisp and clean.

Pay attention to the overall symmetry and balance of the eyes. Adjust any uneven lines or shapes to ensure that both eyes look consistent and harmonious. Taking the time to refine the details will greatly enhance the overall quality of your artwork.

Step 9: Colour and Finalise

Finally, it's time to add colour to your anime eyes. Use coloured pencils, markers, or digital tools to bring life to your artwork. Experiment with different colour combinations to create unique and captivating eyes.

Consider the character's hair colour and overall colour scheme when choosing the eye colour. Warm colours like brown or amber can give a sense of warmth and approachability, while cool colours like blue or green can create a more mysterious or ethereal look. Don't be afraid to mix and blend colours to achieve the desired effect.

Now that you have a step-by-step guide, let's explore some easy tips that will take your anime eye-drawing skills to the next level:

Tip 1: Study Real Eyes

Look at photographs or real eyes to understand their anatomy and how light reflects off them. Use this knowledge to add realism to your anime eyes.

Tip 2: Experiment with Different Styles

Don't be afraid to try different styles when drawing anime eyes. Explore various shapes, sizes, and expressions to find your personal artistic voice.

Tip 3: Practise Facial Proportions

Anime eyes are just one part of the overall facial proportions. Practice drawing the entire face to ensure your characters look balanced and believable.

Tip 4: Play with Colours

Colour choice can greatly impact the overall mood and atmosphere of your artwork. Experiment with different colour schemes to create unique and eye-catching anime eyes.

Tip 5: Use Reference Images

Refer to anime and manga artworks for inspiration. Study how other artists portray eyes and incorporate those techniques into your own drawings.

Tip 6: Don't Rush

Take your time when drawing anime eyes. Patience and attention to detail will result in more polished and professional-looking artwork.

Tip 7: Use Light and Shadows

Understanding how light interacts with objects can greatly enhance the realism of your anime eyes. Experiment with different shading techniques to create depth and dimension.

Tip 8: Seek Feedback

Share your artwork with others and ask for constructive feedback. Learning from others can help you identify areas for improvement and grow as an artist.

Tip 9: Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to mastering any skill is practice. Set aside time each day to draw anime eyes and watch as you steadily improve.