THE GRID METHOD
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The grid method is a technique used to create an accurate representation of a subject, such as a portrait, by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable sections.
Here are the steps to using the grid method to draw a portrait:
1. Gather your materials:
Drawing paper or canvas
Pencil
Ruler
Reference photo (the portrait you want to draw)
Grid template (optional, can be drawn manually)
2. Choose a reference photo:
Select a clear and well-lit reference photo of the portrait you want to draw. Ensure that the photo is high-resolution and has enough detail for you to work with. You can use the ones below or use your own! Go to unsplash.com to find your own reference or take your own photo. If you use my template, make sure the photo is square.
If using one of the photos above, skip to step 5!
3. Determine the size of your drawing:
Decide on the size and proportions of your drawing. You can use a ruler to measure the dimensions on both your reference photo and your drawing paper to maintain accuracy. If you are using your own photo, make sure it is square if you use my template!
4. Create a grid on your reference photo:
Divide your reference photo into a grid of squares or rectangles. The grid should be simple and evenly spaced. You can use a ruler and pencil to draw the grid directly on the photo or use image editing software to add a grid digitally. There are apps you can use to do this! DrawingGrid works great.
5. Create a corresponding grid on your drawing paper:
If you have chosen a 1:1 scale for your drawing, draw the same grid on your drawing paper with the same number of rows and columns as the grid on your reference photo. If you've scaled up or down, maintain the same proportions. For the template I made, your work will be 8"x8"
Make a grid on your paper!
a. Place your template on your paper and trace around it
b. On each side of your paper, make a mark on the edge at the 2", 4", and 6" marks
c. Line your ruler up with the marks, and draw your grid
6. Start with one section of the grid:
Begin by focusing on one section of the grid at a time. Start in one corner and work your way across or down the grid systematically. This approach helps you break down the complex portrait into smaller, more manageable pieces.
7. Observe and draw what you see:
Carefully observe the details, lines, and shapes within the chosen grid section of the reference photo. Replicate these details as accurately as possible onto the corresponding section of your drawing paper.
8. Pay attention to proportions and angles:
Use the grid lines as reference points to help you accurately reproduce the proportions and angles of the features in the portrait. Pay close attention to the relationships between different parts of the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
9. Repeat for each grid section:
Continue to work your way through each grid section of the reference photo, replicating the details and features onto your drawing paper.
10. Just make an outline of your figure because we will be painting it! Take a picture of your drawing and upload to your google site!
Modified Grid Pattern
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