Just in before the holidays: A how to draw a Christmas tree step by step guide! You probably already know how to draw one, but just in case: here are a couple of variations and a handy guide on how to easily draw a Christmas tree. Let’s start!
How to draw a christmas tree step by step
Use the following trees to start a fun Christmas illustration!
1. Sketch
Let’s quickly sketch your bounding box. This decides where on your canvas your tree goes. It’s just an indication of how big your tree will be. After this, we add a centerline.
2. Bounding Box
Let’s draw a proper bounding box. Use the centerline to create a triangle. You can use a ruler if you want. The triangle represents the body of the tree. Next, draw the tree stump. This is a tapered rectangle connecting to the triangle.
3. Add outline of tree
Since we have a centerline it’s easy for us to work in symmetry. Draw the outline of the tree as pictured in the image above. Divide the triangle into 4 sections. At each section, the next ”layer” starts. Repeat this on the other side.
4. Bottom of tree
Draw the bottom. To add more interest to our tree let’s curve it! Note how the center is lower than the outer ends. This creates volume. Match the shape to the sides of the tree.
5. Add trunk
Add the tree trunk. As with the previous step, add a curve to the bottom. Our goal is to keep the same shape language throughout the illustration.
6. Christmas tree variations
Let’s get a little creative. You can divide your tree any way you want! Here are 3 popular examples:
Classic
Draw a wiggly line from each side to the other. I went with symmetry here but you don’t have to.
Grinch
These fun spiky lines remind me a lot of dr. Seuss’s Grinch art style. For this, I simply added spiky lines that represent the needles of the tree. Note that for this one I also mimicked the spikes on the bottom of the tree for a cohesive look.
Just remember that each layer curves!
Minimalistic
Lastly, I ditched the symmetry and went with a minimalistic line. Make sure it has a slight curve so it won’t be boring!
7. Add topper
Once you’ve chosen your design we add a tree topper! I went with the classic star.
That’s it, there you have your tree! These Christmas tree drawings are the foundation of a fully illustrated image. Once you’re done with your linework you can start adding color.
How to draw a Christmas tree easy
To sum up, I created this handy dandy visual guide on how to draw a Christmas tree:
Feel free to save it :)
Christmas tree illustration
For this illustration I chose the classic Christmas tree. I kept the outlines of the tree symmetrical but I ditched it everywhere else. This is a simple trick to give your drawing more interest!
I choose a warm background. The pinks and purples look great in contrast with the cool greens of the tree. Here’s a handy guide on how to know the difference between cool and warm colors!
I added texture and lighting information to spice things up. As a final touch, I added Santa Claus riding his sleigh!
I might do a sepeterate step by step tutorial on how I illustrated this drawing.
Keep Learning
Get weekly articles
Leave your email address below to receive exclusive art content!
I hope you liked this mini-guide on how to draw a Christmas tree step by step. Sometimes it’s nice to get reminded how to draw simple things! Speaking of, you can follow my Pinterest page for daily art inspiration.
Happy Holidays,
♡ Laura
