step by step ✎

How to Draw a Butterfly Step by Step

Let's draw a beautiful butterfly together! We'll build it up using simple shapes and lines.

Each step below shows the sketch as it should look at that point. New lines are dark, earlier lines fade back. Draw lightly until the last step.

the method ✎

We'll start with an oval for the body and circles for the wings. This construction method helps us get the proportions right before adding details.

Draw a vertical oval for the butterfly's body, lightly and roughly.

✎ Make sure the oval is tall and narrow like a butterfly's body.

Draw two large circles on each side of the oval for the wings.

✎ Ensure the circles are symmetrical and equally spaced from the body.

Sketch the contour of the butterfly's wings by connecting the circles smoothly.

✎ Check that the wing shapes are even and flow naturally from the circles.

Add two curved lines on top of the body for the antennae.

✎ Position the antennae symmetrically and make them curve gently outward.

Draw simple patterns inside the wings using the circle guides.

✎ Use the circles to help keep your patterns balanced and even.

Darken the final lines confidently, emphasizing the outlines and patterns.

✎ Press harder on the outlines to make your butterfly stand out beautifully.

Want to draw YOUR butterfly?

More step-by-step guides