This easy drawing tutorial shows how to draw an arrow step by step using simple shapes. Take your time, keep lines smooth, and enjoy this drawing for beginners.
What You Will Need
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Black marker or pen (optional)
- 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:
11 minutes.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Step 1: Shape the Arrowhead
Start with a rounded heart-like shape near the top of the page. Let the top come to a gentle point, and leave a small notch at the bottom center.
Pro Tip: Keep both sides the same size by checking the curves left and right.
Step 2: Add the Shaft Guide Line
From the notch under the arrowhead, sketch one long straight line going downward. Place it centered so the arrow will feel balanced.
Pro Tip: Use your whole arm to guide the line so it stays straighter.
Step 3: Build a Rounded Shaft
Add two parallel lines around the guide line to give the shaft thickness. Round the bottom by connecting the sides with a smooth U-shaped curve.
Pro Tip: Keep the gap between the two sides even from top to bottom.
Step 4: Draw the Left Feather
At the bottom of the shaft, add a puffy three-bump feather shape on the left side. Start where it touches the shaft, then curve outward and back in.
Pro Tip: Make the feather about twice the shaft width for a neat proportion.
Step 5: Draw the Right Feather
Mirror the feather on the right side with a similar three-bump shape. Match the height and roundness so the two sides look like a pair.
Pro Tip: Compare the top bumps on both sides and adjust until they align.
Step 6: Add Feather Detail Lines
Inside the feather area, sketch two short curved lines to suggest soft texture. Keep these lines lighter than the outer outline.
Pro Tip: Light detail lines look cleaner and help the arrow stay simple.
Step 7: Color in your drawing!
Fun Facts
- Arrows were used for hunting and sport in many cultures for thousands of years.
- Fletching (the feathers) helps an arrow fly straighter by adding stability.
- Some arrows use plastic vanes instead of feathers for durability.
Pin it now, Draw later!
You now have a clean arrow drawing with a rounded arrowhead, a smooth shaft, and simple feathers. Try tracing the final outline with a pen, then erase any extra pencil marks. For color, shade one side of the shaft slightly darker to show roundness, and add a soft shadow under the feathers.
A common beginner mistake is making the shaft sides uneven, which can make the arrow look bent. Practice this step-by-step drawing again with lighter lines first, then refine your outline. If you enjoyed learning how to draw an arrow, try drawing a set of arrows with different feather shapes for more practice.
Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide
FREE Download Printable Arrow Drawing Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my arrow look straight?
Use a light center guide line first, then build the shaft evenly on both sides.
What if my arrowhead looks lopsided?
Check the left and right curves, then erase and redraw one side to match the other.
Can I draw a different style of arrow?
Yes, you can change the arrowhead shape or add more feather bumps for a new look.
