How to Draw a Lion Portrait

In this pencil drawing class we will create a powerful lion portrait packed with detail and dramatic lighting.

This is a full-length, real-time class where you’ll follow me from start to finish — from the initial sketch and planning, through to advanced techniques like embossing, layering, and final shading. Nothing is skipped, so you’ll see and learn every part of the process.

During the class you will learn:

• How to plan and transfer your reference image for accurate proportions
• How to use the embossing technique to create realistic fur textures
• How to layer pencil marks to build depth and natural fur clumps
• How to add flyaway hairs, whiskers, and overlapping fur for realism
• How to use brushes to fill grooves and bring out embossed details
• How to shade subtle facial contours like the muzzle and cheeks
• How to create sharp highlights and lift out graphite for final details
• and much more…

Follow along so that by the end of the class you will not only understand how to build realism through layering and texture — but also have a stunning lion portrait to proudly display.

For the class you will need:

A4 / letter drawing paper – must be thick, at least 185gsm (can have some texture or smooth)
Your regular drawing pencils
kneaded eraser
empty ball point pen

Print out all three reference photos, but don’t transfer anything to the drawing paper yet. We will do that in class.

See you then