How to Draw a Ribbon

Last updated:

| Post in:

Learning how to draw ribbon is a gentle way to practice curved lines and simple shapes. This easy drawing tutorial uses rounded loops, a small center knot, and flowing tails. Take your time with each step, and let the ribbon feel soft and light.

Preview of Ribbon drawing
Preview of Ribbon drawing

What You Will Need

  • Pencil
  • Eraser
  • Drawing paper
  • Black marker or pen
  • Coloring tools, such as crayons or colored pencils

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:

29 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the First Ribbon Shape

how to draw a ribbon - Step 1

Start with a soft, curved triangular outline. Keep the left side rounded and leave the right side open for the next ribbon part. This first shape will become one loop of the ribbon.

Pro Tip: Let the bottom edge curve upward slightly so the ribbon feels more natural.

[Alt Text: A beginner ribbon sketch starting with one curved open outline shape.]

Step 2: Add the Right Ribbon Outline

how to draw a ribbon - Step 2

Draw a second rounded, curved outline on the right side. Leave its opening facing left so it feels balanced with the first ribbon piece. Try to make both loops feel wide and soft.

Pro Tip: The right outline can be slightly larger to make the ribbon look more open.

[Alt Text: A ribbon sketch progressing from one open loop to two rounded open ribbon loops.]

Step 3: Draw the Center Knot

how to draw a ribbon - Step 3

Draw a small rounded square between the two ribbon sides. Let it connect both sides to form the center knot of the ribbon. This small shape helps hold the bow together.

Pro Tip: Keep the center knot fairly small so the ribbon loops look light and balanced.

[Alt Text: A ribbon sketch refined with two loops connected by a small rounded center knot.]

Step 4: Add the Left Ribbon Tail

how to draw a ribbon - Step 4

Draw a strip flowing down and left from the bottom of the center knot. Add a small V-shaped notch at the end to make it look like a cut ribbon tail. Keep the tail loose and slightly curved.

Pro Tip: Keep both edges of the tail slightly curved instead of making them too straight.

[Alt Text: A ribbon drawing progressing with a left tail added below the center knot.]

Step 5: Add the Right Ribbon Tail

how to draw a ribbon - Step 5

Draw another strip flowing down and right from the bottom of the center knot. Add a pointed notch at the end so both ribbon tails feel naturally balanced. The two tails should look like they hang from the same knot.

Pro Tip: Keep the right tail close in length to the left one, but let the angle vary slightly.

[Alt Text: A ribbon drawing progressing with both hanging tails added below the center knot.]

Step 6: Add Knot Wrinkle Lines

how to draw a ribbon - Step 6

Add a few short curved lines beside the center knot. Let the lines reach outward from the knot edges to show the ribbon being gathered. These small details make the ribbon look gently folded.

Pro Tip: Keep the wrinkle lines short and light so they do not overpower the bow shape.

[Alt Text: A ribbon drawing refined with short wrinkle lines around the center knot.]

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

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

Fun Facts

  • Ribbons are often used to decorate gifts, clothing, hair, and celebration crafts.
  • A bow is made by folding ribbon into loops and tightening it at the center.
  • Drawing ribbon is great practice for smooth curves and simple symmetry.

Pin it now, Draw later!

how to draw a ribbon pinterest pin

Now your ribbon drawing has loops, a center knot, hanging tails, and small fold details. You can trace the final lines with a marker, then color the ribbon in red, pink, blue, or any shade you like. Keep practicing this step by step drawing, and try using your ribbon on cards, gifts, or cute character drawings.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

Printable Ribbon Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Ribbon Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this ribbon drawing good for beginners?

Yes, this ribbon drawing for beginners uses simple curves and clear shapes. Each part builds slowly, so it is easy to follow.

How can I make my ribbon look softer?

Use rounded corners and gentle curved lines. Avoid sharp angles except for the small notches at the tail ends.

Can I decorate the ribbon after drawing it?

Yes, you can add dots, stripes, sparkles, or a soft shadow. Small decorations can make the ribbon feel more cheerful.

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!