2-2 2 Outlining Techniques

Key Concepts

• Basic Outline
• Detailed Outline
• Contour Outline

Basic Outline

A basic outline is the simplest form of outlining. It involves drawing the main shapes and edges of an object without adding any details. This technique helps you understand the overall structure of what you are drawing.

Example: Imagine drawing a simple apple. Start by outlining the round shape of the apple and the stem. This gives you a basic structure to build upon.

Detailed Outline

A detailed outline involves adding more specific lines and shapes to your basic outline. This technique helps you create a more accurate and realistic drawing by including smaller details and features.

Example: Continuing with the apple, after drawing the basic outline, add details like the slight indent where the stem connects and the small shadows around the edges. This makes the apple look more realistic.

Contour Outline

Contour outlining focuses on the outer edges and shapes of an object, rather than its internal details. This technique improves your observation skills and hand-eye coordination by requiring you to trace the contours of the object without looking at your paper.

Example: Imagine drawing a teddy bear. Start by focusing on the outer edges and shapes, tracing the contours of the bear's body, head, and limbs. This helps you create a recognizable outline of the bear, which you can then fill in with details.

Combining Techniques

You can combine these outlining techniques to create more complex and interesting drawings. Start with a basic outline to establish the main shapes, then add a detailed outline to include specific features, and finally use contour outlining to refine the outer edges and improve your observation skills.

Example: Think of drawing a house. Start with a basic outline of the main shapes (walls, roof, windows). Then, add a detailed outline to include the door, chimney, and window panes. Finally, use contour outlining to refine the edges and make the house look more realistic.