Learn how to draw a cartoon skull with simple sockets and crossed bones. This step by step drawing helps beginners practice symmetry, rounded forms, and overlapping objects.
What You Will Need
- Drawing paper
- Pencil and eraser
- Black marker or colored 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:
18 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Outline the Skull
Draw a wide rounded cranium with flattened lower sides. Close the center bottom using four smooth, tooth-like loops.
Pro Tip: Sketch a vertical centerline to balance both halves.
Step 2: Add the Eye Sockets
Draw two large round eye sockets inside the lower half. Leave a generous space between them for the nose.
Pro Tip: Check that both sockets sit at the same height.
Step 3: Draw the Nose Opening
Add a small inverted heart shape between and below the sockets. Keep its pointed end facing upward.
Pro Tip: Center the nose opening directly above the middle teeth.
Step 4: Begin the Crossbones
Draw a diagonal bone extending from beneath the skull toward the lower left. Round its exposed end with two lobes.
Pro Tip: Keep both long bone edges nearly parallel.
Step 5: Add the Opposite Upper Bone
Draw another diagonal bone toward the upper right with a rounded double-lobed end. Add a small central block where the bones overlap.
Pro Tip: Use the central block to hide complicated crossing lines.
Step 6: Complete the Crossbones
Extend two more bone ends downward from behind the center block. Finish each with paired rounded lobes.
Pro Tip: Match the diagonal angles so the crossbones feel balanced.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- The adult human skull is commonly described as having 22 bones.
- The skull protects the brain and supports the structures of the face.
- A skull and crossbones is a long-established warning symbol.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Darken the sockets and nose, clean the overlaps, and erase any center guides. Your cartoon skull is complete, so try adding a bold border or banner.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Cartoon Skull Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the skull symmetrical?
Compare matching points on both sides of a light vertical guideline.
Should the eye sockets be perfect circles?
No, slightly uneven rounded shapes can give the skull more character.
Can I draw the bones without the center block?
Yes, but plan which bone passes in front and erase hidden crossing lines.
