Learn how to draw a cute cartoon squid with curled arms and a smiling face. This easy drawing tutorial helps beginners practice smooth outlines, repeated curves, and tiny details.
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:
12 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Outline the Mantle
Draw a tall teardrop shape with a rounded point at the top. Leave a small opening between the two curved ends at the bottom.
Pro Tip: Keep both sides similar so the mantle feels balanced.
Step 2: Add the Side Fins
Draw a rounded triangular fin behind each lower side of the mantle. Curve both fins outward before bringing them back to the body.
Pro Tip: Match the fins in height and width for a tidy silhouette.
Step 3: Draw the Left Arms
Extend two curling arms from the lower-left opening. Add several small oval suckers along the inner sides.
Pro Tip: Give each arm a different curl to make the pose lively.
Step 4: Add the Center Arms
Draw two long arms hanging from the center and curling inward near their tips. Place a row of small oval suckers inside each arm.
Pro Tip: Leave a narrow gap between the center arms so each outline stays clear.
Step 5: Complete the Right Arms
Add two more curled arms beneath the right fin. Decorate their inner edges with evenly spaced oval suckers.
Pro Tip: Echo the left-side curves without copying them exactly.
Step 6: Finish the Face
Draw two large circular eyes with small curved highlights inside. Add a short U-shaped smile between and below the eyes.
Pro Tip: Place the face low on the mantle for an extra-cute expression.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Squid move quickly by pushing water through a muscular funnel.
- Their suckers help them grip food and explore nearby objects.
- Most squid have eight shorter arms and two longer feeding tentacles.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Erase hidden guides, strengthen the outline, and add bright underwater colors. Your cartoon squid is complete, so try surrounding it with bubbles, coral, or tiny fish.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Cartoon Squid Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep the arms from looking tangled?
Leave small spaces between nearby curves and make every tip easy to follow.
Do all the suckers need to match?
No, slight size differences can make the arms feel more natural.
Can I give the squid a different expression?
Yes, change the eye highlights and mouth curve to show surprise, excitement, or sleepiness.
