← PORTRAIT PRACTICE

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GRADES 3–5 · Hair · Simple Portraits

Draw Coils and Texture: Use Fewer Lines

Name ____________________ Date __________

WHAT YOU WILL MAKE

Create a detailed first study and a simplified version with five to ten main marks, focusing on draw coils and texture. Use the subject steps as practice before making this final pair or set.

Shared feature reference for Hair
Shared feature reference. It may not show this task’s exact pose, accessory, or style. Use the teacher’s matching reference too.

Draw it step by step

Texture can be suggested without drawing every hair. Translate the observed feature into a clear, simplified drawing. Keep its identifying shape while reducing detail.

  1. Look at the reference and choose three important curves, angles, or shapes. Make a tiny plan using only those.
  2. Observe the silhouette and hairline.
  3. Make light and dark groups that follow the hairstyle.
  4. Add short curved marks in selected places; keep some areas quiet.
  5. Make a second version with fewer marks. Remove texture and small shadows; keep the outline changes that communicate the form.

Watch out → Try this

Common drawing problem: Adding small details before the main shapes and placement are clear.

Repair: Return to the first subject step: Observe the silhouette and hairline. Compare the biggest shapes before refining.

Check your work: Did you preserve the observed shape instead of filling everything with marks? Can someone identify the feature in the simpler version? Explain which marks you kept.

Materials: pencil, eraser, paper, and a mirror or teacher-approved reference. Optional black drawing pen; no painting required.

Draw Coils and Texture: Use Fewer Lines · Practice page

Name ____________________ Make light trials first. Divide a box further if your task needs extra versions.

1 · Observe and plan
2 · First drawing
3 · Change one choice
4 · Independent application

My evidence: Did you preserve the observed shape instead of filling everything with marks? Can someone identify the feature in the simpler version? Explain which marks you kept.

I changed __________________ because I noticed __________________.

My next practice goal: __________________________________________________