This easy drawing tutorial shows how to draw BB-8 step by step using simple circles and clean mechanical details. You will build the dome head, add the round body, then finish with panels, dots, and antennas. Take your time with symmetry, and this drawing for beginners will look neat and balanced.
What You Will Need
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Black marker or fineliner
- Plain drawing paper
- Colored pencils or crayons (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:
30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Draw BB-8’s Dome Head
Start with a smooth half-dome shape with a slightly flatter bottom. Add a short curved line under it to suggest the head’s lower rim.
Pro Tip: Keep the dome rounded, not pointy, for a BB-8 look.
[Alt Text: Step 1: BB-8’s dome head is sketched as a smooth half-sphere with a small lower rim.]
Step 2: Add the Big Body Circle
Draw a large, full circle under the head for the body. Let the head sit just above it, leaving a small gap for the neck seam.
Pro Tip: Aim for a clean circle so BB-8 feels balanced and cute.
[Alt Text: Step 2: A large circle is added under BB-8’s dome to form the main body.]
Step 3: Draw the Left Circular Panel
Add a large ring on the left side of the body, then draw a smaller ring inside it. Place it to follow the curve of the sphere like an embedded panel.
Pro Tip: Keep the spacing even to make the panel look mechanical.
[Alt Text: Step 3: BB-8’s left circular body panel is added with an inner ring.]
Step 4: Draw the Right Circular Panel
Draw a second large ring on the right side and add its inner ring. Keep it close in size to the left one, placed symmetrically across the body.
Pro Tip: Match the centers’ height first, then draw the circles.
[Alt Text: Step 4: BB-8’s right circular body panel is added with a matching inner ring.]
Step 5: Add the Bottom Curved Hatch
Draw a wide curved opening near the bottom of the body, like an upside-down smile. Add a few small shapes inside to suggest inner parts.
Pro Tip: Follow the body curve so the hatch feels wrapped on the sphere.
[Alt Text: Step 5: A curved hatch detail is added near the bottom of BB-8’s round body.]
Step 6: Draw the Head Lens
Draw a large circle on the front of the dome for the lens outer ring, then add a smaller inner circle. Add one or two short lines nearby to hint panel seams.
Pro Tip: Place the lens slightly above center so it feels like eye contact.
[Alt Text: Step 6: BB-8’s dome gets a main circular lens with a smaller inner lens.]
Step 7: Add Small Dots and Panel Dividers
Place small dots around the body like bolts or sensors. Add a few curved divider lines to break the sphere into panel sections.
Pro Tip: Use gentle arcs that follow the sphere for a 3D feel.
[Alt Text: Step 7: Small dots and curved panel lines are added across BB-8’s body.]
Step 8: Add Mechanical Segments Inside the Side Rings
Inside both large rings, add small curved or rectangular segments like clips or grooves. On the right panel, add an extra small circular detail for variety.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the panel; a little space looks cleaner.
[Alt Text: Step 8: Mechanical segments are added inside BB-8’s two large circular panels.]
Step 9: Draw the Head Antennas
Draw one thin antenna rising from the top of the dome, then add a shorter one beside it. Let them tilt slightly and connect them firmly to the dome curve.
Pro Tip: Keep antenna lines thin and straight so they look delicate.
[Alt Text: Step 9: Two thin antennas are added on top of BB-8’s dome to finish the drawing.]
Step 10: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- BB-8’s body is a sphere, which makes it great practice for drawing circles.
- Small dots and panel lines help a simple robot look detailed and mechanical.
- Antennas add character and make the head feel more “alive.”
Pin it now, Draw later!
You now know how to draw BB-8 step by step, from the dome head to the round body and panel details. Trace your final outline with a marker, then erase leftover pencil lines once the ink is fully dry.
For coloring, try white for the main body with orange panels and light gray shadows. Add soft shading along one side of the sphere and under the head seam, and leave a small highlight area to keep the body looking shiny.
One common beginner mistake is placing the side rings at different heights, which makes the body feel tilted. Keep practicing this easy drawing tutorial, and try drawing BB-8 at a slight angle to build your drawing for beginners skills.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Bb8 Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I draw a smoother circle for BB-8’s body?
Sketch lightly in small strokes, then connect the best curve into one clean outline.
What if my head looks too flat on the body?
Leave a small gap and add a clear seam line under the dome.
How can I keep the antennas from looking crooked?
Draw them with quick, straight strokes and check their angles before you ink.
