How to Draw a Donut

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This easy drawing tutorial shows you how to draw a donut step by step.
You will build simple shapes first, then add icing and sprinkles.
Take your time and keep your lines light until the end.

Preview of Donut drawing
Preview of Donut drawing

What You Will Need

  • Pencil or black marker
  • Eraser
  • Paper
  • Colored pencils or markers (optional)

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  • 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:

14 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the Top Arc of the Donut

how to draw a donut - Step 1 shows the first line of an easy donut drawing: a large curved top arc forming the beginning of the donut’s outer shape.

Start with one large curved line, like an upside-down bowl.

Keep both ends open for now, so you can complete the shape later.

Pro Tip: Keep the arc balanced, with the highest point centered.

Step 2: Add a Small Wavy Line on the Lower Left

how to draw a donut - Step 2 of the donut drawing adds a short wavy line under the left side of the outer arc, starting the lower edge without closing the full shape yet.

Under the left end of the arc, draw a short wavy curve to suggest a bumpy edge.

Let it flow out from the left side, but don’t close the full bottom shape yet.

Pro Tip: Keep the waves small and smooth so they match the donut’s round shape.

Step 3: Add a Matching Wavy Line on the Lower Right

how to draw a donut - Step 3 of the donut drawing adds a second wavy line on the lower right, matching the left-side wave to balance the donut’s outer edge.

Under the right end of the arc, draw another short wavy curve to balance the shape.

Keep its length and bumps similar to the left side, at about the same height.

Pro Tip: Place it lightly first, then adjust so both waves feel equally bumpy.

Step 4: Draw the Donut Hole

how to draw a donut - Step 4 of the donut drawing adds a small circle near the lower center to create the donut hole inside the outer shape.

Draw a smaller circle near the lower center to make the donut hole.

Leave a small gap between this circle and the wavy outer edge.

Pro Tip: Make the hole about one-third of the donut’s width for a natural look.

Step 5: Draw the Bottom Curve to Close the Outer Shape

how to draw a donut - Step 5 of the donut drawing adds a large bottom arc that connects both sides, completing the donut’s outer ring around the center hole.

Starting under the left wavy edge, draw a large curved line around to the right.

Connect smoothly into both sides to complete the donut’s outer ring.

Pro Tip: Make the bottom curve evenly rounded, so it doesn’t look lopsided.

Step 6: Add Sprinkle Details on the Icing

how to draw a donut - Step 6 of the donut drawing adds short sprinkle marks across the icing on the top half, giving the donut a decorated look.

Draw several short little lines on the icing area to make sprinkles.

Vary their directions and spread them out evenly without crossing the outline.

Pro Tip: Use a medium amount of sprinkles, and leave some open space.

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

how to draw a donut - Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

  • Donuts are often fried, which gives them a soft inside and crisp outside.
  • Sprinkles come in many shapes, including rods, balls, and tiny stars.
  • Many donuts have icing on top because it helps toppings stick.

Pin it now, Draw later!

how to draw a donut pinterest pin

Trace your final lines darker and erase any sketchy marks you do not need.
Color the icing a fun shade and add sprinkles in multiple colors for contrast.
Now you know how to draw a donut—try drawing a whole donut box next!

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

Printable Donut Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Donut Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the donut look more 3D?

Add a second inner line around the outer edge and the hole to show thickness.
You can also shade lightly under the icing to suggest depth.

What if my donut hole is not centered?

Lightly erase and redraw the circle, using the donut’s widest middle as a guide.
A small shift is fine, as long as it looks balanced overall.

Can I draw different icing styles?

Yes—change the wavy line into bigger drips, smaller scallops, or smooth icing.
You can also add zigzags, stripes, or little dots for texture.

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