ORIGINAL DRAWING LESSON
Drawing Lips in a Three-Quarter View
Today, we'll learn how to easily draw anatomical lips in a three-quarter view. Don't worry, we'll do this step by step, and you'll definitely succeed!
STEP 1 / 12
Step 1
Draw the middle line—this is the most important construction line. It defines the curve, tilt, and expression of the lips. Draw a soft, curved line that follows a smile. Don't make it perfectly straight, or the lips will look flat.
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STEP 2 / 12
Step 2
With light, curved lines, outline the boundaries of the upper and lower lips, using the central guide line and setting their general shape.
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STEP 3 / 12
Step 3
Refine the contour of the middle line, making it more natural and fluid, so the future lips look realistic.
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STEP 4 / 12
Step 4
Clearly define the center of the lips with a thin yet expressive line to correctly establish their geometry and symmetry.
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STEP 5 / 12
Step 5
Above the upper lip, lightly sketch the location of the philtrum (the vertical groove), which is an important anatomical feature.
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STEP 6 / 12
Step 6
On the surface of the lower lip, draw two auxiliary ovals, which will later help to correctly convey the volume and placement of highlights when shading.
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STEP 7 / 12
Step 7
With smooth lines, refine and detail the final contour of the upper lip, emphasizing its unique shape.
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STEP 8 / 12
Step 8
In the same way, work on and refine the line of the lower lip, harmoniously connecting it with the upper lip.
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STEP 9 / 12
Step 9
Use lines to sketch the shaded areas in the philtrum region and on the chin line to immediately indicate the main volume.
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STEP 10 / 12
Step 10
Darken the upper lip, making it tonally darker, as it receives less light due to its anatomical position.
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STEP 11 / 12
Step 11
Carefully darken the lower lip, but leave the areas where the auxiliary ovals were sketched light, thereby creating volumetric highlights.
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STEP 12 / 12
Step 12
Work on the skin around the lips so they fit organically into the face. With a light, even stroke, add a tone above the upper lip (in the philtrum area) and under the lower lip, where the shadow should be more noticeable to create the illusion of volume. The drawing is ready!
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