How to Draw a Grim Reaper

Last updated:

| Post in:

Learn how to draw a grim reaper with a rounded hood and a gentle smile. This drawing for beginners builds a simple robe before adding a curved scythe.

Preview of Grim Reaper drawing
Preview of Grim Reaper drawing

What You Will Need

  • Drawing paper
  • A pencil
  • An eraser

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:

14 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Outline the Face Opening

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with a broad rounded face opening with a flatter base

Draw a broad oval with a slightly flattened lower edge. Keep its upper curve rounded to form the grim reaper’s face opening.

Pro Tip: Leave space around the oval for the outer hood.

Step 2: Add the Simple Face

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with two oval eyes and a small U-shaped smile

Draw two upright oval eyes inside the face opening. Add a small U-shaped smile centered below the eyes.

Pro Tip: Keep the eyes similar in size for a balanced expression.

Step 3: Wrap the Hood Around the Face

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with an outer hood arch surrounding the face

Draw a larger rounded arch around the face opening. Curve its lower ends inward, leaving a gap beneath the face.

Pro Tip: Keep a fairly even band between the face and hood outlines.

Step 4: Draw the Robe and Hands

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with a flared robe, curved hem folds, and two simplified hands

Extend the robe downward into a wide, folded hem. Add a rounded left hand, a short right sleeve and hand, and small fold marks.

Pro Tip: Leave the left hand’s upper edge open for the scythe handle.

Step 5: Add the Feet

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with two small feet peeking from beneath the robe

Draw two short rounded feet beneath the center of the robe. Let the hem overlap their upper edges so only the bottoms show.

Pro Tip: Keep both feet smaller than the visible hands.

Step 6: Draw the Scythe

how to draw a grim reaper - grim reaper drawing with a long scythe handle and a sweeping pointed blade

Draw a long slanted handle passing behind the left hand. Attach a broad curved blade near its top, tapering down toward the left.

Pro Tip: Break the handle lines where the hand covers them.

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

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

Fun Facts

  • The grim reaper’s broad hood creates a clear frame around the simple face.
  • The scythe’s long diagonal balances the rounded shapes in this grim reaper drawing.

Pin it now, Draw later!

how to draw a grim reaper pinterest pin

Your grim reaper now has a friendly face, flowing robe, small feet, and a scythe. This easy drawing tutorial mixes gentle curves with one strong diagonal. Try another step by step drawing with a slightly wider hood.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

Printable Grim Reaper Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Grim Reaper Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep the grim reaper’s hood even?

Compare the spaces above and beside the face before completing the outer curve.

How do I draw the grim reaper holding the scythe?

Stop the handle lines at the hand, then continue them below it.

Leave a Comment

700+ Step-by-Step How to Draw Lessons

Stop searching. Get Our Free Printable Directed Drawing Each and Every day!


20.2k others who get our daily newsletter with insider drawing tutorial!