Learn how to draw a Day of the Dead skeleton character in festive clothing. This step-by-step drawing uses bold curves, simple bone motifs, and a large traditional-style hat.
What You Will Need
- Drawing paper
- Pencil and eraser
- Black pen or marker
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Time needed:
12 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Draw the Wide Hat
Draw a broad curved brim with a narrow band inside it. Add a small rounded crown above and an inner curve beneath the brim.
Pro Tip: Keep both ends of the brim at nearly the same height.
Step 2: Add the Skull
Outline the skull beneath the hat with rounded cheek corners. Add circular eye sockets, a heart-shaped nose opening, and a row of rounded teeth.
Pro Tip: Place the nose halfway between the eye sockets and teeth.
Step 3: Draw the Arms and Hands
Sketch two bent sleeves beneath the skull. Add cuffs and overlap the small crosshatched hands at the center.
Pro Tip: Draw the nearer hand last so the overlap remains clear.
Step 4: Detail the Jacket
Add two pointed lapels beside the neck. Draw a central spine shape with short curved ribs extending outward.
Pro Tip: Keep the rib marks short enough to fit between the jacket sides.
Step 5: Build the Lower Body
Draw a small pointed waist and a rounded pelvis motif with four oval openings. Extend two long narrow legs downward from it.
Pro Tip: Space the leg lines evenly beneath the pelvis shape.
Step 6: Finish the Boots
Add one wide boot at the end of each leg. Curve each toe upward into a small decorative spiral.
Pro Tip: Align the boot soles to keep the standing pose steady.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, honors loved ones who have died.
- The celebration is especially associated with Mexico and takes place in early November.
- Decorative skeleton figures often appear joyful and wear detailed festive clothing.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Erase extra guidelines and reinforce the clean shapes. Your Day of the Dead drawing is complete, so consider adding bright floral colors and personal decorative patterns with care and respect.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Day Of The Dead Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decorate the hat further?
Yes, add balanced flowers, dots, or curved bands without crowding the outline.
How can I make the skull more expressive?
Adjust the eye-socket shapes and gently tilt the tooth line.
Which colors fit this drawing?
Use vivid colors you enjoy while keeping dark outlines around the main forms.
