In this easy drawing tutorial, you will learn how to draw a dove with simple shapes.
We will build the drawing step by step, starting with the face and ending with a peaceful olive branch.
What You Will Need
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Black pen or marker
- Paper
- Optional: Colored pencils or crayons
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:
26 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Draw the Eyes and Beak
Start by drawing two round eyes, with the right eye slightly bigger.
Add a small pointed beak below them, and sketch a short split line inside.
Pro Tip: Keep both eyes on the same level to make the face feel balanced.
Step 2: Draw the Head and Body Outline
Add a large curved line over the top to form a rounded head shape.
From the chin area, draw two smooth curves downward to outline the chest and body.
Pro Tip: Keep the head slightly rounder and larger than the body for a cute dove look.
Step 3: Add the Wing and Feather Shapes
On the right side of the body, draw a long curved shape to form the wing.
Add a few rounded scallops at the end to show layered feathers.
Pro Tip: Start the wing around the body’s middle, and taper it slightly toward the tip.
Step 4: Draw the Tail Feathers
Add a short curved bump at the back-bottom to start the tail base.
Draw three rounded “petal” shapes to make the tail fan out to the right.
Pro Tip: Keep the tail small, about a short section of the wing’s length.
Step 5: Draw the Two Little Feet
Add two short legs under the body, then draw three small toes on each foot.
Stagger the feet slightly so the dove looks stable while standing.
Pro Tip: Keep the legs short and thin, and place the feet near the body’s center.
Step 6: Draw the Olive Branch in the Beak
From the front of the beak, draw a thin stem that angles outward and slightly splits.
Add a few teardrop-shaped leaves on both sides, then draw a short vein line in each leaf.
Pro Tip: Keep the stem thin and the leaves small so the eyes and beak stay clear.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Doves are often used as symbols of peace in art and stories.
- Many doves can fly quickly and change direction with strong wing muscles.
- A simple olive branch is a classic sign of friendship and calm.
Pin it now, Draw later!
Trace your final lines with a pen, then erase any extra sketch marks.
You can color the dove white or light gray, and make the leaves green.
Now you know how to draw a dove step by step—try drawing it in different poses next time!
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Dove Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How can I make my dove look cuter?
Make the head a little bigger, keep the legs short, and leave bright highlights in the eyes.
2) What if my wing looks too big?
Erase the outer edge and redraw it closer to the body, keeping the feather scallops smaller.
3) Can I draw the dove flying instead of standing?
Yes—angle the body more sideways and lift the wing higher, then shorten or hide the feet.
