How to Draw a Computer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Drawing a computer might seem daunting, especially if you’re not an artist. But with a step-by-step approach, even beginners can create a recognizable and even impressive computer drawing. This guide will walk you through the process of drawing a desktop computer, including the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. We’ll break it down into simple shapes and stages, making it easy to follow along. So, grab your pencils, erasers, and paper, and let’s get started!
## Materials You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather the necessary materials:
* **Pencil:** A standard HB pencil is ideal for sketching and outlining. A softer pencil like 2B or 4B can be used for shading.
* **Eraser:** A good quality eraser is essential for correcting mistakes and cleaning up lines. A kneaded eraser is helpful for lifting graphite without damaging the paper.
* **Paper:** Choose a smooth drawing paper for best results. Printer paper works in a pinch, but thicker paper will handle erasing and shading better.
* **Ruler (Optional):** A ruler can be helpful for drawing straight lines, especially for the monitor and keyboard.
* **Sharpener:** Keep your pencils sharp for crisp lines.
* **Reference Image (Optional):** Having a picture of a computer in front of you can be helpful for visualizing the proportions and details.
## Step 1: Sketching the Monitor Shape
1. **Draw a Rectangle:** Start by sketching a large, slightly elongated rectangle. This will be the main shape of the monitor screen. Don’t press too hard with your pencil, as this is just a guideline.
2. **Add the Monitor Stand:** Below the rectangle, draw a smaller, slightly wider rectangle. This will form the base of the monitor stand. Overlap the bottom of the larger rectangle slightly.
3. **Refine the Stand:** Sketch a trapezoid shape connecting the base of the stand to the back of the monitor screen. This trapezoid will represent the neck of the monitor stand, providing support.
4. **Round the Edges:** Using your eraser, gently round the corners of the monitor screen and the base of the stand. This will make the computer look more modern and less boxy. Aim for subtle curves, not drastic rounding.
## Step 2: Adding Details to the Monitor
1. **Draw the Screen Bezel:** Inside the main rectangle, draw a smaller rectangle, leaving a border around the edges. This border represents the bezel surrounding the monitor screen. Keep the border width consistent.
2. **Add Speaker Grills (Optional):** Some monitors have built-in speakers. If you want to include them, draw small, closely spaced vertical lines at the bottom of the monitor screen, below the bezel. You can draw a rectangle, and then fill it with lines for easier drawing.
3. **Power Button:** Locate the power button, usually at the bottom right or center of the monitor. Draw a small circle or oval to represent the button. You can add a power symbol inside the circle if you like.
4. **Adjustments:** Review your monitor sketch and make any necessary adjustments to the shape and proportions. Erase any unnecessary guidelines.
## Step 3: Sketching the Keyboard Shape
1. **Draw a Long Rectangle:** Below the monitor, sketch a long, thin rectangle for the keyboard. Make sure it’s proportionally sized compared to the monitor. A keyboard should be significantly wider than it is tall.
2. **Slight Angle (Optional):** Instead of drawing a perfectly straight rectangle, you can slightly angle the top edge upwards. This will give the keyboard a more ergonomic and realistic appearance.
3. **Refine the Shape:** Round the corners of the keyboard rectangle slightly, similar to how you rounded the monitor corners. Again, aim for subtle curves.
## Step 4: Adding Keyboard Keys
1. **Divide into Rows:** Lightly sketch horizontal lines across the keyboard rectangle to divide it into rows. The number of rows will depend on the level of detail you want to include, but typically 4-5 rows are sufficient.
2. **Sketch Key Groups:** Within each row, sketch small squares or rectangles representing the individual keys. Don’t worry about drawing every single key; instead, focus on creating the overall impression of a keyboard. Keep the spaces between the keys consistent.
3. **Angle Keys (Optional):** If you want to add more realism, slightly angle the keys in the center of the keyboard upwards, creating a slightly curved surface. This simulates the natural curvature of a keyboard.
4. **Key Details (Optional):** You can add some key details, such as the space bar (a long, horizontal rectangle in the bottom row) and the Enter key (an L-shaped key on the right side). Simplify the shapes; you don’t need to draw every detail.
## Step 5: Sketching the Mouse Shape
1. **Draw an Oval:** To the right of the keyboard, sketch a small oval shape for the mouse. The size should be proportional to the keyboard and monitor.
2. **Refine the Shape:** Slightly flatten the bottom of the oval to create a more ergonomic shape. The mouse shouldn’t be perfectly symmetrical.
3. **Draw the Buttons:** Add two small, slightly curved rectangles on top of the oval, representing the left and right mouse buttons. Leave a small gap between the buttons for the scroll wheel (if you’re drawing a modern mouse).
4. **Scroll Wheel (Optional):** If you’re drawing a mouse with a scroll wheel, add a small circle or oval between the left and right buttons.
5. **Cable (Optional):** If you want to draw a wired mouse, add a thin line extending from the front of the mouse to suggest the cable. You don’t need to draw the entire cable, just a small portion to indicate its presence.
## Step 6: Outlining and Refining
1. **Outline the Sketch:** Once you’re happy with your sketch, use a darker pencil or a fine-liner pen to outline the main shapes of the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Trace over the lines you want to keep, and refine any wobbly or uneven lines.
2. **Erase Pencil Lines:** After outlining, carefully erase the original pencil sketch lines. This will leave you with a clean and defined drawing.
3. **Add Line Weight:** Vary the thickness of your lines to add depth and visual interest. Thicker lines can be used for the outer edges of the monitor and keyboard, while thinner lines can be used for details like the screen bezel and key outlines.
## Step 7: Adding Shading (Optional)
1. **Determine Light Source:** Decide where the light is coming from. This will determine where the shadows fall on your drawing.
2. **Lightly Shade:** Use your pencil to lightly shade the areas that are furthest from the light source. Start with a light layer of shading and gradually build up the darkness. Use smooth, even strokes.
3. **Add Highlights:** Leave some areas unshaded to create highlights. These are the areas that are closest to the light source. You can use your eraser to lift graphite and create brighter highlights.
4. **Shade the Monitor:** Add shading to the monitor stand and the screen bezel. Consider adding a subtle gradient to the monitor screen to simulate the glow of the display.
5. **Shade the Keyboard:** Add shading to the sides of the keyboard and between the keys to create depth.
6. **Shade the Mouse:** Add shading to the sides and bottom of the mouse.
7. **Consider Reflections:** Add subtle reflections, such as a small reflection on the monitor screen, to enhance realism.
## Step 8: Adding Final Details and Polish
1. **Add Text to Keys (Optional):** If you want to add more detail, you can lightly sketch letters and symbols onto some of the keys. Don’t try to write out every key; just add a few recognizable characters to suggest the presence of text.
2. **Add a Background (Optional):** You can add a simple background to your drawing, such as a desk or a wall, to provide context and visual interest. Keep the background simple so it doesn’t distract from the main subject.
3. **Review and Adjust:** Take a step back and review your drawing. Make any final adjustments to the lines, shading, and details.
4. **Sign Your Artwork:** Don’t forget to sign your drawing! Add your initials or signature in a corner of the paper.
## Tips for Drawing a Computer
* **Use References:** Look at real computers or pictures of computers for reference. Pay attention to the proportions, shapes, and details.
* **Start with Basic Shapes:** Break down the complex shapes into simple geometric forms like rectangles, ovals, and lines.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Erase:** Drawing is a process of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to erase and redraw lines until you’re happy with the result.
* **Practice Regularly:** The more you practice, the better you’ll become at drawing.
* **Pay Attention to Proportions:** Make sure the different parts of the computer (monitor, keyboard, mouse) are proportionally sized relative to each other.
* **Keep Lines Light at First:** When sketching, keep your lines light and loose. This will make it easier to erase and correct mistakes.
* **Vary Line Weight:** Use different line thicknesses to add depth and visual interest to your drawing.
* **Experiment with Shading:** Shading can add dimension and realism to your drawing. Experiment with different shading techniques to find what works best for you.
* **Be Patient:** Drawing takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing, and you’ll improve over time.
* **Have Fun!** Drawing should be an enjoyable experience. Relax, be creative, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Incorrect Proportions:** Failing to get the proportions right can make your drawing look unrealistic. Pay attention to the relative sizes of the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
* **Drawing Too Dark Too Early:** Starting with dark lines can make it difficult to erase and correct mistakes. Keep your lines light and loose at first.
* **Ignoring Perspective:** Ignoring perspective can make your drawing look flat and unrealistic. Consider the angle from which you’re viewing the computer and adjust the shapes accordingly.
* **Overcomplicating the Drawing:** Trying to include too many details can make your drawing look cluttered and confusing. Focus on the essential details and simplify the rest.
* **Not Using References:** Drawing without references can make it difficult to capture the correct shapes and proportions. Use real computers or pictures of computers for reference.
* **Giving Up Too Soon:** Drawing takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing, and you’ll improve over time.
## Conclusion
Drawing a computer is a fun and rewarding project that can be enjoyed by artists of all skill levels. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can create a realistic and impressive computer drawing. Remember to practice regularly, use references, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a little patience and effort, you’ll be able to draw a computer that you’re proud of.
Now that you know how to draw a computer, try drawing other electronic devices like laptops, tablets, or smartphones. You can also experiment with different styles and techniques to create unique and original drawings. Happy drawing!