How To Draw Eyelashes

Here’s a simple guide on how to draw eyelashes.

Step-by-Step Process of Drawing Eyelashes

Step 1: Sketch the Eyelid Curve

Alright, let’s start by drawing a smooth, curved line. This line represents the upper eyelid and will act as our base.

Keep your hand relaxed and use light pressure—think of it like the curve of a crescent moon. This will guide where your eyelashes will grow from, so take your time getting the arc right.

If it helps, imagine you’re sketching the closed shape of the eye. Don’t worry about any lashes yet; this step is just about placing your foundation.

Step 2: Draw Basic Eyelash Strokes

Now that we’ve got the eyelid shape, let’s begin adding the first layer of lashes. Using gentle flicking motions, draw curved lines starting at the eyelid and extending outward.

These lines should fan out in different directions—lashes near the center should go more straight out, while those toward the edges should curve slightly outward or inward.

Make sure your strokes taper—press a little at the base and lift off as you go out to make the tips thin and realistic. Keep it spaced for now; we’re going to build on it.

Step 3: Add Volume and Structure

Here’s where we start giving the lashes body.

Go back over each eyelash, thickening the base and layering in a few more in between the existing ones. This will make the lashes look fuller and more natural.

You can also darken the eyelid line now to make it resemble a lash line.

Pay attention to the angles—eyelashes aren’t straight lines; they curve, and that natural arc is what makes them look real. The variation in length and spacing will also add to the realism.

Step 4: Final Shading and Refinement

Now it’s time to bring it all together.

Start shading just above the lash line to represent the crease of the eyelid and add a touch of realism to the eye socket. Use a soft pencil or a blending tool to add a gentle gradient that blends upward. You can also soften some of the lashes by lightly going over them with a blending stump or brush to simulate depth and softness.

Finally, check your strokes—if needed, sharpen some tips or add tiny lashes in gaps to complete the look.

Equipment Needed to Draw the Eyelashes

Reference Photo – Great for understanding the direction, density, and natural curve of real eyelashes.

Drawing Paper or Sketchbook – Choose a smooth or lightly textured paper that handles fine lines well.

Pencils (HB to 4B) – Use HB or 2B for light sketches and eyelid curves; 3B or 4B for bold, dark lash lines and shading.

Eraser (preferably kneaded) – Useful for lightening edges, lifting out highlights, or cleaning up lines without smudging.

Sharpener – Essential to maintain a fine point for precise eyelash strokes.

Blending Tool (Stump or Soft Brush) – Ideal for adding subtle shading above the eyelid and softening harsh lines.

Tissue or Cotton Pad (optional) – For very light, broad blending across the eyelid area if needed.