How To Draw a Butterfly

Here is a step-by-step process on how to draw a butterfly. 

Step 1: Basic Body & Wing Structure

• Draw a vertical oval for the butterfly’s body (thorax and abdomen).
  
• Add two large symmetrical wing outlines—top wings as wide arches, bottom wings as smaller rounded curves.
  

Step 2: Refine Wing Shape

• Define the wing edges more clearly by adding natural curves and scallops.
  
• Begin shaping the wings to look more organic and proportional.

• Lightly sketch out veins and sections within the wings.
  
• These help guide where patterns and details will go.
  

Step 3: Pattern Detailing

• Draw distinctive patterns on the wings—circles, spots, and bands.
  
• Ensure symmetry between the left and right sides.
  

Step 4: Add Antennae & Texture

• Draw antennae extending from the top of the head.
  
• Lightly texture the body with fine lines to suggest segments and fuzz.
  

Step 5: Shading & Final Touches

• Use soft shading to create depth in the wings and body.
  
• Emphasize the contrast in patterns and define edges with darker pencil lines.
  
• Clean up guidelines to reveal the final, polished butterfly sketch.