Before you can draw a forest, you need to be able to draw a tree. A pine tree is a common, basic tree that can be drawn by anyone. The more detailed you want the drawing to be, the longer it will take to complete. Careful observation, patience and practice are the keys to success when learning to draw anything.
Instructions
Practice
1. Find a picture or photo of a pine tree, or sit outside with a live specimen for a model.
2. Practice sketching different parts of the tree to better understand the texture and three-dimensional forms that make it up.
3. Observe and sketch all of the parts individually before you put them together.
Basics
4. Start with the simplest and largest shape: a cone.
5. Divide this cone into several stacked cones.
6. Draw the needles, making sure to follow the curve of the cone. Add dimension by layering the needles with overlapping lines. The closer the point of view, the more texture is needed.
Details
7. Focus on details, like the shape of the trunk and root system. Do roots bulge up from the ground? Does long grass surround the trunk? Emphasize the flare at the base.
8. Draw long, squiggly, unconnected lines on the trunk and branches to show the wood grain. Make the bark denser (lines closer) toward the edges of the tree where the bark wraps around the trunk.
9. Determine where your light source is coming from and use shading to bring the tree to life as a cylindrical object.
10. Vary the weight of your pencil stroke to develop depth. Draw shadow at the base and where branches meet the trunk.
