How to Draw a Cartoon Dolphin

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Learn how to draw cartoon dolphin with a calm, beginner-friendly sequence. This easy drawing tutorial breaks the subject into simple curves and shapes that are easy to follow.

Preview of Cartoon Dolphin drawing
Preview of Cartoon Dolphin drawing

What You Will Need

  • Drawing paper
  • Pencil and eraser
  • Black fineliner or marker
  • Colored pencils or crayons

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: Start the Dorsal Fin

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 1 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "start the dorsal fin" stage.

Draw a small hooked curve for the top fin. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 2: Add the Head and Snout

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 2 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "add the head and snout" stage.

Curve the forehead forward into a rounded smiling snout. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 3: Shape the Body

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 3 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "shape the body" stage.

Sweep the back and belly downward from the head. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 4: Draw the Flippers

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 4 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "draw the flippers" stage.

Add one large front flipper and a smaller far flipper. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 5: Add the Face and Belly

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 5 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "add the face and belly" stage.

Draw a bright eye and a curved underside patch. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 6: Finish the Tail

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 6 progression of the cartoon dolphin drawing after the "finish the tail" stage.

Add two pointed tail flukes at the end of the body. Keep these new lines light and connect them smoothly to the existing drawing.

Pro Tip: Compare this addition with the nearby shapes before darkening your lines.

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

how to draw a cartoon dolphin - Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

  • The mix of rounded and angular shapes gives this cartoon dolphin a clear cartoon silhouette.
  • Building the cartoon dolphin one part at a time makes its proportions easier for beginners to compare.

Pin it now, Draw later!

how to draw a cartoon dolphin pinterest pin

Check the outline, erase any unwanted pencil marks, and add color if you like. Your cartoon dolphin step by step drawing is complete, so try it again and make the next version your own.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

Printable Cartoon Dolphin Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Cartoon Dolphin Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my cartoon dolphin drawing in proportion?

Compare each new shape with the parts already drawn, and make small corrections before adding darker lines.

Can I color the finished cartoon dolphin?

Yes. Choose any colors you enjoy, and keep a few lighter areas to make the cartoon drawing feel lively.

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