This easy drawing tutorial will help you draw a cross with soft, rounded arms.
Take your time, and focus on smooth curves and balanced proportions.
By the end, you will have a clean, beginner-friendly cross shape.
What You Will Need
- Pencil or stylus
- Eraser (optional)
- Black marker or pen (for final lines)
- Paper or a drawing tablet
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:
20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Draw the First Curved Stroke
Start with a thick curved line that opens to the right, like a rounded “C.”
Let the top and bottom ends extend slightly outward, and keep it smooth.
Pro Tip: Keep the curve evenly rounded, and do not close the open side yet.
Step 2: Add the Upper Vertical Curve
Above the first shape, draw a tall curved stroke with a rounded top.
Let it meet the lower shape near the middle, and leave a small opening below.
Pro Tip: Keep the top curve’s width close to the lower shape’s width.
Step 3: Complete the Right Arm
From the center area, draw a rounded arm to the right with a soft capsule end.
Trace the top outline a bit darker to smooth the outer edge and joins.
Pro Tip: Make the right arm about as long as the left arm for better symmetry.
Step 4: Draw the Lower Stem
From the opening under the center, pull a long stroke downward for the stem.
Curve the tip gently to the right, and refine the outer outline where needed.
Pro Tip: Drop the lower stem straight down from the center to keep the cross balanced.
Step 5: Add the Right Outline of the Stem
Draw the stem’s right outer edge down from the center opening.
Round the bottom into a fuller teardrop shape, then meet the left edge smoothly.
Pro Tip: Keep the stem equally wide on both sides, and avoid making the bottom too pointy.
Step 6: Add Small Inner Curves
Inside the left arm, add a short curved line to suggest a gentle turn.
Add another small inner curve near the bottom to make the end feel rounded.
Pro Tip: Keep these inner curves short and light, and do not touch the outer outline.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- The cross is one of the oldest symbols used in art and design.
- Rounded cross shapes are common in logos because they feel friendly and soft.
- Simple symbols like a cross are great practice for smooth curves and symmetry.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Go over your final outline with a clean, steady line, and erase any sketch marks.
If you like, add light shading along one side to give the cross more depth.
Now you know how to draw a cross step by step—try drawing it in different styles next.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Cross Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the cross look more symmetrical?
Lightly sketch a vertical centerline first, and match the left and right arm lengths.
What if my curves look shaky?
Use slower strokes, draw from your shoulder, and redraw the curve in one smooth pass.
Can I change the style of the cross?
Yes, you can make the arms sharper, thinner, or more rounded to create new looks.
