How to Draw a Lion
Today, we’ll learn how to draw a lion, the majestic king of the jungle.
These powerful and regal animals are known for their magnificent manes and fearsome roars.
Let’s embark on an artistic safari as we guide you step by step in creating a stunning lion drawing that will impress kids and parents alike.
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How to Draw a Lion
Step 1 – Draw the Head
Start by drawing a slightly oval shape for the lion’s head.
Since the lion is in a profile view, the left side of the oval should be more rounded, while the right side should be slightly flatter where the snout will go.
Keep your lines light so you can easily make adjustments later.
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Step 2: Add the Snout and Nose
To form the lion’s snout, draw a small curved shape extending outward from the front of the head.
Think of it as a short, rounded “U” that stretches slightly forward.
At the tip of the snout, draw a tiny oval or triangle for the lion’s nose. Add a small curved line beneath the nose to show the mouth.
Step 3: Draw the Eye
Since the lion is facing sideways, you only need to draw one eye.
Place it slightly above the snout, closer to the top of the head. For a simple look, draw a small dot or a curved line.
If you want to add more detail, include a tiny curved line above the eye to form the lion’s brow.
Step 4: Add the Mane
Now, it’s time to give the lion its big, fluffy mane!
Starting from the top of the head, draw a series of wavy or jagged lines that flow down the back of the head and around the neck.
Make the mane large and uneven to give it a natural look.
You can keep the lines smooth and simple or add small zigzags to make it look thicker.
Step 5: Draw the Front Leg
From the bottom of the mane, draw a straight vertical line downward to form the front leg.
Slightly curve the line at the bottom to create the paw.
Then, draw another line parallel to the first one and connect them at the bottom with a small curved shape for the foot.
Step 6: Sketch the Back and Belly
From the mane, draw a slightly curved line going back to form the lion’s back.
Then, from the front leg, draw another curved line extending backward to create the belly.
Leave space at the back for the hind legs.
Step 7: Add the Back Leg and Hindquarters
At the end of the back line, draw a large curved shape to form the lion’s hindquarters.
Then, draw the back leg by sketching a curved line downward, similar to the front leg but slightly thicker.
Curve the bottom to form the foot and connect it back up.
Step 8: Draw the Other Legs
Now, add the lion’s remaining legs.
Behind the front leg, draw a slightly shorter, parallel leg to show the lion’s other front paw.
Do the same for the back, adding a second back leg just behind the first one.
Step 9: Draw the Tail
To finish the drawing, add a long, curved line extending from the back of the lion for its tail.
At the end of the tail, draw a small rounded shape to create the tuft of fur.
Keep the tail slightly curved to make the lion look more dynamic.
Roaring success! You’ve mastered how to draw a lion.
Your final drawing should look like the sketch below. Now, it’s time to add some colors to complete the drawing and make it more realistic.
Now you can show off your awe-inspiring lion artwork to your friends and family, or even create a collection of royal animal drawings.
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👇 Don’t Forget to Check Other Animals of the Big Cat Family 👇
- How to Draw a Panther
- How to Draw a Jaguar
- How to Draw a Cougar
- How to Draw a Tiger
- How to Draw a Puma
- How to Draw a Caracal
- How to Draw a Wildcat
- How to Draw a Snow Leopard
- How to Draw a Leopard
- How to Draw a Lynx
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About the Lion
Lions are big and strong cats that live in Africa. They have a golden-yellow fur coat and a big mane, which is the hair around their neck. Lions are the king of the jungle and are at the top of the food chain.
They are very good hunters and work together with their pride, or group of lions, to catch their prey, which can include antelopes, zebras, and buffaloes. Lions are also very social animals and live together in prides led by a male lion.
Although lions are strong and powerful, they are also very affectionate with each other and take care of their young.
Lions play an important role in their ecosystem by keeping other animal populations in balance. They are beautiful and fascinating animals that are a joy to learn about and observe.
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