This easy drawing tutorial shows how to draw a cheerleader step by step.
We will build the picture in small, calm stages, so beginners can follow along.
Take your time, and let each new line feel simple and steady.
What You Will Need
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Black pen or marker (optional, for outlining)
- Coloring tools (crayons, markers, or colored pencils)
- Paper
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: Sketch the Top Curve and Bangs
Start with a wide curved line near the top, like the top of a head.
Add three pointy bangs underneath, with the middle one tallest and the side pieces sweeping outward.
Keep the ends of each bang slightly rounded so it feels like hair.
Pro Tip: Vary the bang heights, with the center highest for a natural look.
Step 2: Add the Bow and Ponytail Curve
Add a small bow at the top center, with two rounded loops and a tiny knot.
From the right side of the bow, draw a long smooth arc curving upward and back to show the ponytail direction.
Keep the curve flowing so the hair feels bouncy.
Pro Tip: Keep the bow modest, about half the width of the bangs.
Step 3: Add the Face Shape and Features
Draw a rounded face under the bangs, letting the chin taper softly.
Add small half-circle ears on both sides, then place two simple round eyes, short eyebrows, and a tiny nose dot.
Finish with an open smiling mouth, and add a small curved line inside for the tongue or mouth split.
Pro Tip: Keep the eyes level, and place them slightly above center.
Step 4: Add the Left Pom-Pom and Raised Arm
Draw a big round pom-pom on the upper-left side, using many petal-like bumps for fluff.
From under the pom-pom, pull a slanted arm line down toward the side of the face, as if it is lifted high.
Make the arm line a touch thicker so it feels like a uniform sleeve.
Pro Tip: Keep the outer bumps similar in size to make the pom-pom look round.
Step 5: Add the Right Pom-Pom and the Other Arm
Draw a second big pom-pom on the right side, keeping it close in size to the left one, with many fluffy bumps.
From underneath it, add the other slanted arm line, mirroring the first raised arm.
Let the pom-pom overlap a bit of the hair edge to show depth.
Pro Tip: Match the arm angles on both sides to keep the pose balanced.
Step 6: Add the Upper-Body Uniform
Add a simple shirt shape under the head, letting the sides drop from the armpits.
Draw a small V-neck opening, then add two curved stripes near the bottom for uniform trim.
Let the hem curve slightly upward to keep the pose lively.
Pro Tip: Keep the shirt slightly narrower than the arm span for a fitted look.
Step 7: Add the Pleated Skirt and Hem Trim
Under the shirt, sketch a flared skirt shape that widens to both sides.
Drop several pleat lines from the waist so each panel falls like a small fan.
Finish with a thin trim line along the bottom hem to match the top.
Pro Tip: Start pleats at the waist, and let spacing widen slightly at the hem.
Step 8: Add One Leg and a Sneaker
From under the skirt, draw one straight lower leg, keeping it short for a cute cartoon look.
Sketch a rounded sneaker with an oval toe, then add a thick curved sole underneath.
Finish with a small band at the ankle to show the sock.
Pro Tip: Make the sole curve slightly larger than the shoe top for a stable look.
Step 9: Add the Second Leg and Sneaker
Draw the second lower leg under the skirt on the other side, matching the first leg’s length.
Add the second sneaker with a rounded toe and a thick sole line.
Finish with a simple strap or opening line so both shoes share the same details.
Pro Tip: Keep both shoes the same size, and line up the toes for balance.
Step 10: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Cheerleaders often use pom-poms to make motions look bigger and brighter.
- A simple bow and ponytail can help a character look sporty and ready to perform.
- Cartoon cheerleaders usually have short legs and a big head for extra cuteness.
Pin it now, Draw later!
You now have a full cheerleader drawing with raised pom-poms, a uniform, and sneakers.
For coloring, try a bright uniform color and a lighter shade for the trim.
Add gentle shading under the bangs, under the skirt, and beneath the shoes to ground the pose.
One common beginner mistake is making the two pom-poms different sizes, so compare them as you outline.
Keep practicing this step by step drawing, and try changing the colors or facial expression next time.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Cheerleader Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the pom-poms look fluffier?
Add more small bumps around the edge, and vary a few bump lengths slightly.
What if my face looks uneven?
Lightly mark a center line first, then place the eyes at the same height.
How can I change the pose without starting over?
Keep the head and uniform, then redraw the arms at a new angle before adding pom-poms.
