Step 1: Gather materials

Before you begin, get a pencil, paper, eraser, and a reference image of an owl for guidance.

Step 2: Draw a light circle

Begin the process by sketching a faint circle to represent the head of the owl. This will serve as your base to build upon.

Step 3: Draw two vertical lines

Add two faint vertical lines dividing the head. One should be in the middle, and the other one should be off to one side to create an oval shape.

Step 4: Draw two horizontal lines

Inside the head’s outline, draw two horizontal lines slicing through the center horizontally and vertically. These will mark guidelines for the eyes and beak placement.

Step 5: Sketch rough circular shapes for eyes

Using the guidelines, create two large circles along the horizontal line for the eyes of the owl. Ensure the circles are symmetrical on both sides of the vertical line.

Step 6: Add smaller circles inside

Draw smaller circles within each eye to indicate pupils. Shade these inner circles leaving a tiny white spot for reflections.

Step 7: Shape up the eyes’ surroundings

Add detail around each eye by sketching almond-shaped structures around them. Then add some contour lines for texture and feather effect around those shapes.

Step 8: Draw a small triangle for the beak

On the vertical guideline between both eyes, create a small triangular shape slightly below where both horizontal lines intersect. The tip of this triangle should point downwards.

Step 9: Sketch curved lines for facial feathers

Draw short u-shaped curves below and around both eyes, connecting them to form a pattern that resembles an upside-down heart on each side of your owl’s face.

Step 10: Create body guideline

Below your owl’s head, lightly sketch an elongated oval that extends downward. This will serve as the owl’s body outline.

Step 11: Draw wings’ outline

On both sides of the body, draw wing-like structures that curve downwards and connect with the body’s upper part. These lines will act as guides for your owl’s wings.

Step 12: Add feather details on wings

To detail your owl’s wings, sketch curved lines moving from the shoulder towards the bottom edge of each wing. Vary line sizes to give the appearance of layered feathers.

Step 13: Sketch legs and talons

Draw two short lines extending down from the base of the body for legs. At the end of each leg, sketch three curved talons acting as owls’ sharp claws.

Step 14: Refine and erase guidelines

Now it’s time to adjust your lines and add finishing touches, like more remaining feathers, then erase all guidelines in your drawing. Your owl should now be complete!

Follow these 14 steps to draw a beautiful and lifelike owl. Enhance your drawing skills by practicing this illustration often. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try adding individual features to make your owl unique!