How to Draw an Emoji

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Learn how to draw emoji features for a joyful, teary expression. This drawing for beginners uses a round face, sparkling eyes, large tears, and an open smile.

Preview of Emoji drawing
Preview of Emoji drawing

What You Will Need

  • Drawing paper
  • Pencil and eraser
  • Black pen or marker

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Time needed:

10 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Outline the Round Face

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 1 showing the open-sided outline of a round face

Draw a large circle using separate upper and lower curves. Leave small openings at both sides near the horizontal center.

Pro Tip: Sketch lightly and turn the paper while shaping the circle.

Step 2: Add Eyes and Brows

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 2 showing two round eye outlines and curved eyebrows

Draw two large incomplete circles inside the upper face. Place one short curved eyebrow above each eye.

Pro Tip: Keep equal space between each eye and the outer face.

Step 3: Fill the Shining Eyes

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 3 showing two large glossy eyes with paired highlights

Add dark curved pupils inside both eyes. Leave one large round highlight and one tiny highlight open in each pupil.

Pro Tip: Match the highlights to make both eyes sparkle together.

Step 4: Draw the Left Tear

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 4 showing one large tear beneath the left eye

Add a large teardrop flowing from the outer corner of the left eye. Point it toward the eye and round its hanging end.

Pro Tip: Let the tear overlap the open section of the face outline.

Step 5: Add the Right Tear

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 5 showing matching tears flowing from both eyes

Mirror a second teardrop beneath the right eye. Match its length and rounded lower shape with the first tear.

Pro Tip: Compare both tear tips before darkening their outlines.

Step 6: Finish the Laughing Mouth

how to draw an emoji - Emoji Step 6 showing a wide laughing mouth completing the teary emoji

Draw a wide open mouth in the lower face. Divide it with a top opening and a rounded tongue shape along the bottom.

Pro Tip: Center the mouth between the tears and beneath the eyes.

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

how to draw an emoji - Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

  • Emoji originated in Japan, and the word combines terms for picture and character.
  • Digital platforms may display the same emoji with slightly different artwork.
  • Large tears and an open smile combine two strong emotional symbols.

Pin it now, Draw later!

how to draw an emoji pinterest pin

Erase uneven guides and strengthen the round face, glossy eyes, tears, and mouth. Your easy emoji drawing is complete, so add classic yellow, blue, and warm mouth colors.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

Printable Emoji Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Emoji Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I draw a smoother circle?

Build it from several light arcs before tracing one clean outline.

Should both tears be identical?

They should feel balanced, but small natural differences are acceptable.

Can I change the expression?

Yes, adjust the eyebrows and mouth while keeping the same round face.

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