How to Learn to Draw Manga and Develop Your Own Style

Become familiar with manga and anime. A crucial step in learning to draw manga is to study the art styles of Japanese artists and understand the different components that set manga apart from other types of art. For instance, the eyes are normally the main focus of the face and contain the most detail. Furthermore, a variety of different manga styles exist, and it can be helpful to study them before deciding which one appeals to you the most.

Practice manga characters and/or animals without books. Before purchasing a how-to-draw book, attempt to learn the basics on your own. Because instructional books are normally written by a single artist, the images may be drawn in one style. To prevent unconsciously absorbing his or her style, it is best to practice for a while. With many references and guides on the Internet, you can search the basics of manga anatomy and do your best to learn them. Avoid trying to copy other artists' styles. Focus on what techniques they have used, then practice using your own style. Push this even further by forcing yourself to make different versions, don't just stick to one style but try out a variety to see what works best for you.

Follow each step in drawing books. Rather than skipping to the final product and copying it, it is best to lay out each step. The directions will guide you through the process of starting from scratch and developing each essential part of the face, so you can eventually draw on your own without the book's guidance. If you attempt to cheat and skip ahead, you may have difficulties with remembering and learning the anatomy of manga. Furthermore, attempt to draw your own character so that you can start to develop your own style.

Practice drawing your favorite characters. Although you should not completely adapt another artist's style, copying their work can help you decide what design you prefer. If you enjoy that particular style, bits of that technique will eventually carry over to you. Although this method can be used as a starting point for style development, you should not solely rely upon it; otherwise, you may have difficulties with creating original designs. Experimenting is the best way to develop your own style. As already said, try different versions of whatever you want to draw. Push yourself beyond what you think you can do to discover just what you really can do. Look at what you've done without over-thinking it and mark out which pieces resonate most with you. Those are the ones directing you toward what you need to keep developing as your personal style.

Do not allow others to discourage you. Although it is important to remain open to suggestions, remember that there is a difference between constructive criticism and demeaning remarks. As long as you remain dedicated towards drawing, you have a chance to improve your art. All artists work at different paces, so remain focused upon your own path and avoid comparing yourself to others.