Learn how to draw cartoon penguin shapes with an adorable upright pose. This drawing for beginners uses smooth curves, simple facial features, and balanced symmetry.
What You Will Need
- Drawing paper
- Pencil and eraser
- Black marker and coloring pencils
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:
21 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Draw the Head Arch
Make a tall upside-down U shape near the page center. Leave both lower ends open for the body.
Pro Tip: Keep the arch broad and smooth to create a rounded head.
Step 2: Add the Flippers
Extend a long pointed flipper from each open side. Curve both flippers downward and slightly away from the body.
Pro Tip: Compare both flipper tips so they finish at similar heights.
Step 3: Draw Eyes and Beak
Place two round sparkling eyes inside the head. Add a small diamond-shaped beak between them with a curved lower edge.
Pro Tip: Center the beak slightly below the eyes for a friendly face.
Step 4: Frame the Face
Draw two tall inward-curving arches around the eyes. Let both curves descend toward the beak and end near the shoulders.
Pro Tip: Leave a narrow gap between the arches above the beak.
Step 5: Shape the Belly
Continue two inner curves downward from the face. Round them into a wide flat-bottomed belly beneath the flippers.
Pro Tip: Make the belly widest near its lower half for a soft silhouette.
Step 6: Finish the Feet
Add one small foot under each side of the belly. Divide their front edges into three softly rounded toes.
Pro Tip: Keep the feet low and wide to ground the penguin securely.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Penguins use their flippers to steer through water while swimming.
- A penguin’s contrasting body colors create a naturally bold silhouette.
- Rounded shapes make young cartoon characters appear especially gentle and friendly.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Smooth the body contours, darken the outer feathers, and add color to the beak and feet. Your cartoon penguin is finished, so try giving it a snowy setting.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Cartoon Penguin Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the penguin symmetrical?
Draw a light centerline and compare matching features on both sides.
Why does my penguin look too narrow?
Widen the lower belly while keeping the head slightly smaller above it.
Can I change the flipper pose?
Yes, angle one or both flippers outward to suggest waving or movement.
