Learning how to draw scroll shapes is a fun way to practice curls, curved paper edges, and simple character details. This step by step drawing guide breaks the scroll into clear parts, so beginners can build the picture calmly and confidently.

What You Will Need

• Pencil
• Eraser
• Black marker or pen
• Red pencil or colored pencil for guide lines
• Drawing 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:

16 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the Spiral Start of the Scroll

Start near the top of the page with a spiral that curls inward. Let the outer curve grow wider, then extend the line gently to the right to begin the open scroll shape.

Pro Tip: Keep the spiral loose, because clear spacing helps the rolled paper edge look easier to read.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing begins with a loose spiral sketch and a short extending curve to show the first rolled edge.]

Step 2: Pull Down the Scroll’s Paper Sides

Under the rolled edge, draw two long lines that lean slightly outward. Add a gently lifted point at the upper right corner, so the paper looks like it is opening.

Pro Tip: Keep the two side lines close in length, so the scroll paper feels balanced.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing progresses from a spiral sketch to a rolled top edge with two long paper sides and a lifted corner.]

Step 3: Add the Rolled Bottom Edge

Below the two side lines, draw a horizontal rounded rectangle shape. Curve the top and bottom edges gently to show the thickness of the rolled paper.

Pro Tip: Make the bottom edge a little wider than the paper body, so the rolled shape looks clearer.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing progresses with a rolled top, long paper sides, and a rounded bottom roll added to complete the main form.]

Step 4: Extend the Lower Paper Section

From both sides of the bottom roll, draw two long lines downward. Let the lines open slightly outward to form the lower part of the unfolding scroll.

Pro Tip: Start the lower lines from the roll’s edges, so the paper sections connect naturally.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing progresses with a lower paper section extending beneath the rounded bottom roll.]

Step 5: Draw the Bottom Spiral Roll

At the bottom of the lower paper section, add a horizontal rolled spiral edge. Let the left curve curl inward, then connect the right paper corner gently to the roll.

Pro Tip: Match the bottom spiral with the upper roll’s direction, so the whole scroll feels unified.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing progresses with the lower paper section finished by a bottom spiral roll and connected paper corner.]

Step 6: Add a Cute Face

In the middle of the upper paper section, draw two round eyes with small highlights inside. Below and between the eyes, add a tiny curved smile to give the scroll a friendly expression.

Pro Tip: Keep both eyes at the same height, so the expression looks neat and cute.

[Alt Text: A scroll drawing progresses from the completed rolled form to a cute scroll with round eyes and a small smiling mouth.]

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

• Scrolls were used long before modern books became common.
• Many old scrolls were made from paper, parchment, or papyrus.
• Drawing a scroll is great practice for curved lines and rolled shapes.

Pin it now, Draw later!

Trace your favorite lines with a black marker, then erase any light guide marks. You can color the scroll cream, tan, or pale yellow for an old paper look. Take your time and try this drawing for beginners again to make your next scroll even smoother.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Scroll Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this scroll drawing good for beginners?

Yes, this easy drawing tutorial uses simple curves, long lines, and rounded shapes. Each step adds only one small part at a time.

How can I make my scroll look more ancient?

Add light brown shading near the rolled edges and corners. You can also draw tiny cracks or soft uneven lines on the paper.

Can I draw this scroll without the cute face?

Yes, you can leave the paper blank for a classic scroll. You can also write a small message inside the scroll when the shape is finished.