This easy drawing tutorial shows how to draw a backpack step by step.
You will build the bag shape first, then add straps, arms, and a cute face.
It is a friendly drawing for beginners that uses simple rounded lines.

What You Will Need

• Pencil
• Eraser
• Black pen or fine liner
• Paper
• Colored pencils or markers (optional)

Here are my RECOMMENDED Art Supplies!

• Crayola Coloring Set (140 Pieces – Mega Value!)
• 24 Colored Crayon Set
• A4 Printer Paper
• Crayola Coloring Pencils
• HP Home Printer with Instant Ink!

Time needed:

11 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the Backpack Main Shape

Start with a large rounded rectangle, with an extra-round bottom edge.

Add a simple side pocket bump on each side to suggest volume.

Keep the outline smooth and evenly curved.

Pro Tip: Keep the bag centered by lightly marking a middle line first.

Step 2: Add the Top Zipper and a Small Charm

Draw a curved zipper band across the top of the backpack.

Add two or three zipper pulls, then hang a round charm near the top.

Draw a simple star inside the charm circle.

Pro Tip: Follow the top curve so the zipper looks attached to the bag.

Step 3: Draw the Front Pocket and Its Zipper

Add a large rounded pocket on the lower front of the bag.

Make the pocket top edge slightly flatter than the bottom curve.

Draw a thin zipper line across the pocket and add a small zipper pull.

Pro Tip: Keep the pocket border parallel to the bag edge for a neat look.

Step 4: Add the Right Shoulder Strap

Draw a curved strap behind the backpack on the right side, dropping from the top.

Use two parallel lines to show the strap’s width and thickness.

Let the strap end sit near the right side pocket area.

Pro Tip: Make the outer curve longer and the inner curve slightly shorter for depth.

Step 5: Add the Top Handle

Draw a small arched handle at the top center of the backpack.

Use double lines and connect it lightly to the top edge.

Keep the handle low so it feels realistic.

Pro Tip: Keep the handle low so it feels like a real backpack handle.

Step 6: Add the Left Shoulder Strap

Draw the matching left strap behind the backpack, similar to the right strap.

Use double lines again so both straps feel soft and padded.

Let it hang naturally down the left side.

Pro Tip: Start the left strap at the same height as the right strap.

Step 7: Add the Left Waving Arm

Draw an arm coming out from the left side of the backpack.

Add a small hand with 3–4 rounded finger bumps to show a wave.

Overlap the arm slightly with the bag edge so it feels connected.

Pro Tip: Make the hand slightly larger than the arm for a clearer wave.

Step 8: Add the Right Arm and Hand

Draw a second arm on the right side, angled slightly downward or outward.

Add a rounded hand and separate the fingers with simple curved lines.

Place it near the side pocket area so the pose feels stable.

Pro Tip: Keep line thickness consistent on both hands for a unified character.

Step 9: Draw a Cute Face on the Backpack

Place two round eyes on the upper front of the backpack.

Add pupils with small highlights, then draw a tiny nose or open oval mouth.

Darken the face lines so the expression stands out clearly.

Pro Tip: Set the eye height lightly first, then add pupils for better symmetry.

Step 10: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

• Backpacks often look cuter with rounded corners and soft curves.
• Zipper pulls and charms are easy details that add personality.
• Simple faces work best when the eyes are large and level.

Pin it now, Draw later!

You have drawn a backpack with straps, pockets, and a friendly face.
Erase extra sketch lines and smooth any wobbly curves in the outline.
Try coloring the bag in a bright school color like blue or pink.
Add light shading under the pocket flap and beneath the straps.
One common beginner mistake is making the straps different lengths.
If that happens, adjust one strap before you darken the final lines.
Keep practicing this step by step drawing, and try more easy drawing tutorials next.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Backpack Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my backpack look even on both sides?

Draw a light center line and match the curves left to right.

What if my zipper line looks crooked?

Redraw it lightly along the top curve before you ink it.

How can I make the face look cuter?

Make the eyes slightly bigger and keep the mouth small and centered.