How To Draw a Baseball

Here’s an easy drawing tutorial on how to draw a baseball.

Step-By-Step Process on How To Draw a Baseball

Step 1: Lightly Sketch the Basic Circle

Begin by lightly drawing a circle to establish the overall shape of the baseball. Use soft, loose strokes rather than a single hard outline. This allows you to adjust the proportions easily and keeps the sketch looking natural. Focus on creating a balanced, symmetrical form. Since the baseball is spherical, aim for smooth curvature all around. Keep the lines faint at this stage — they are just guidelines and will be refined later.

Step 2: Define the Seam Guidelines

Inside the circle, sketch the curved seam lines that wrap around the surface of the ball. These lines should arc in opposite directions to suggest the three-dimensional form. Lightly draw elongated “S”-shaped curves that follow the contour of the sphere. Make sure the seams feel like they are wrapping around the ball rather than sitting flat on the surface. Keep your strokes soft and adjustable.

Step 3: Add the Stitches and Refine the Outline

Along both seam lines, begin adding the stitches. Draw small, evenly spaced curved marks that cross the seam lines from side to side. The stitches should follow the curvature of the ball to enhance the sense of volume. Once the stitches are placed, refine the outer circle by darkening the final outline. Clean up any unnecessary construction lines while keeping the drawing crisp and clear.

Step 4: Apply Shading for Depth and Realism

Decide on a light source (for example, from the upper left). Gradually build shading on the opposite side using soft, layered strokes. Use light cross-hatching or gentle blending to create a smooth transition from light to shadow. Darken the area closest to the edge opposite the light source to create roundness. Add a subtle cast shadow beneath the baseball to anchor it to the surface. Keep the highlight area lighter to maintain the illusion of a spherical form.