How to Draw Realistic Tears
Drawing a realistic tear might seem simple, but capturing the subtle details and texture requires some careful attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a tear using our Classic Drawing Pencil Set Of 104. Also, since tears are transparent and reflect light, once you learn how to draw them, you can apply these techniques to create raindrops, condensation, or any kind of dripping water.
Step 1
Begin by visualizing the shape of the tear. Sketch an elongated, rounded droplet to represent the tear rolling down. Add a few irregular shapes nearby for stray droplets. Use an HB sketch pencil with light pressure to outline the shapes.
Step 2
Tears reflect light, therefore, so draw small circular shapes inside the tear to indicate highlights. At the bottom, sketch a subtle curved line to represent the shadow the tear casts.
Step 3
Add curved lines within the blank area of the tear. These lines define different sections for shading, giving the tear depth.
Step 4
In this example, the light source is on the right, so use a 2B sketch pencil to shade the left side of the tear and the surrounding shadow. Select sky blue from the pencil set to color the tear, leaving the highlighted areas untouched. Gradually build up the shading to create a realistic transition.
Step 5
Blend the blue with a touch of gray for smoother transitions. Add hints of purple to emphasize the reflective quality of the tear. For the shadows near the tear, deepen them with the 2B pencil, softening the edges as you move outward.
Step 6
Darken the shadows where the light doesn’t reach, layering more purple for depth. Blend the colors with care to achieve a seamless gradient. Finally, add warm tones to the surrounding area to contrast the tear with the skin, making it stand out.
And there you have it! With these techniques, your tear will look realistic, capturing the subtle depth and reflections of real water. Whether it’s an anime character or a detailed portrait, adding tears can bring powerful emotion to your art. We’d love to see your creations! Share your work with us on social media using the hashtag #letsgrabie. Happy drawing!
