A desk is a great object to practice simple 3D shapes and neat lines.
In this easy drawing tutorial, you will build the desk one part at a time.
Take your time, and keep your lines light until you are happy.
What You Will Need
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Black pen or marker (optional, for clean outlines)
- 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:
20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Block in the Desktop Shape
Start with a long, gentle curve for the front edge of the desk.
Add two upward-curving side edges, then connect a shorter back edge to form a flat trapezoid top.
Keep the shape wide and simple for now.
Pro Tip: Keep the back edge shorter than the front to suggest perspective.
[Alt Text: Step 1 of how to draw a desk: a wide, flat desktop is sketched as a shallow trapezoid with a curved front edge.]
Step 2: Add Thickness and a Drawer Handle
Draw a second long line under the top to show the desk’s thickness.
Connect the sides with short vertical lines to form the front face.
Add a small rounded rectangle in the center as a drawer handle or slot.
Pro Tip: Match the curve of the thickness line to the front edge so it feels like one solid board.
[Alt Text: Step 2 of how to draw a desk: the desktop is given thickness with a front face, and a small rounded-rectangle handle is added in the center.]
Step 3: Draw the First Desk Leg
Under the left side of the desktop, draw a tall vertical rectangle for the first leg.
Round the bottom corners slightly to keep the style soft and friendly.
Add an inner vertical line to show the leg’s thickness.
Pro Tip: Line the leg up with the desktop edge first, then pull it straight down for a stable look.
[Alt Text: Step 3 of how to draw a desk: a single rectangular desk leg is added under the left side of the thick desktop, with a slight inner line for depth.]
Step 4: Add the Second Desk Leg
Under the right side of the desktop, draw a second vertical leg matching the first one.
Keep both leg bottoms aligned so the desk looks level.
Add an inner vertical line on this leg too for thickness.
Pro Tip: Place the right leg slightly inward to keep the desk balanced and symmetrical.
[Alt Text: Step 4 of how to draw a desk: a matching second desk leg is added under the right side, creating a stable two-legged front view.]
Step 5: Add a Small Stool Under the Desk
Draw an oval under the desk for the stool seat.
Add a short band underneath to show the seat’s thickness.
From the underside, draw three to four rounded legs that spread outward.
Pro Tip: Start all stool legs from the same bottom rim and angle them outward for a stable 3D look.
[Alt Text: Step 5 of how to draw a desk: a small round stool is added under the desk, with an oval seat, a thick rim, and several short rounded legs.]
Step 6: Add a Desk Lamp and Stationery
On the left side of the desktop, draw a small lamp base.
Add a curved stem and a dome-shaped lampshade with an inner rim line.
On the right side, sketch a closed book and a tilted pencil for a study scene.
Pro Tip: Make the lamp and book sit on the desktop by lightly touching their bottoms to the top edge line.
[Alt Text: Step 6 of how to draw a desk: a curved desk lamp is added on the left of the desktop, and a small book with a pencil is added on the right.]
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Desks have been used for writing and studying for hundreds of years.
- Many desks include drawers to store pencils, papers, and small tools.
- A lamp on a desk helps focus light on the page and reduces shadows.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Trace your final lines with a pen if you want a clean cartoon look.
Erase extra sketch lines and smooth any wobbly edges.
You can add small details like wood grain, stickers, or a shadow under the legs.
Now you know how to draw a desk step by step—try drawing another desk with different items on top.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Desk Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my desk look more 3D?
Make the back edge shorter than the front edge, and keep your thickness lines parallel.
Small perspective changes can make a big difference.
What if my desk legs look uneven?
Check the bottoms of both legs and adjust them to the same height.
You can lightly draw a guide line across the bottom to help.
Can I change the style of the desk?
Yes—try thicker legs, sharper corners, or add more drawers.
You can also decorate the desktop with different books and supplies.
