Ganesha (also spelled Ganesh or Ganapati) is the beloved elephant-headed Hindu deity known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, beginnings, and creativity. Today let’s learn how to draw Ganesha step by step.
For this easy how to draw Ganesha tutorial all you need is a pen. There is also a printable pdf that you can download for free at the bottom of this post and then enjoy some quiet art time without your screens!
Supplies Used:
- Sketchbook- I made this sketchbook last week! How to Make a Sketchbook out of an old bookhow to drawing ganesha Video:
- Pens https://amzn.to/3wQgQGe
- Mechanical Pencil https://amzn.to/3g6gJAj
- Eraser https://amzn.to/32eP8EV
HOW TO DRAW GANESHA STEP BY STEP:
Step 1: Sketch the Head and Trunk
Start by lightly sketching the head shape of Ganesha. Think of a rounded oval for the face, then add a long, swirling elephant trunk that curves gracefully downward
Tip: Don’t stress about perfection — the trunk can have a natural curve that makes your drawing unique.
Step 2 : Add Large Ears
Ganesha’s ears are large and expressive. Draw an ear on each side of the head, shaping them like gentle waves. They don’t need to be perfectly symmetrical, variation gives life to your art. The ears will always be in movement and never both in the same exact position.
Step 3 : Draw the Crown
Atop the head, sketch a crown. This can be simple or detailed, many artists add ornamental points, jewels, or a center gem.
Step 4 : Outline the Body, Arms and Hands
Below the head, draw a curved torso with a larger belly, traditionally seen in Ganesha imagery. Add a shawl or draped cloth around his shoulders if desired.
Ganesha is often depicted with multiple arms. For an easy drawing, draw one hand raised in blessing and another holding a sweet (laddoo) which a symbol of rewards and prosperity
Step 5 : Add the Legs
Draw legs in a folded or seated position, typical of many Ganesha art styles. Keep the lines gentle and curved this gives your sketch a calm, balanced look.
Step 6 : Add Facial and Jewelry Details
Now go in with a fine pen to draw, eyes with peaceful expression, decorative jewelry, tiny circles for pearls on the crown and necklace and extra detailing on the shawl and accessories
DOWNLOAD HERE: Click here to download the printable guide
Looking for another traditional sketchbook drawing project? Learn how to draw Goddess Lakshmi step-by-step using simple ink lines
Here is another example showing How to draw Ganesha step by step. You can add color to it in the end or leave it with just ink lines.
How to Draw Ganesha Step by Step in a Sketchbook Video
Draw along with me in my How to Draw Ganesha YouTube Video or click the video box below
Conclusion
Want to transform this drawing technique into a colorful handmade card? Follow my full Ganesha card tutorial with markers using water-based dual brush pens. You can also download these 3 free Ganesha coloring pages immediately and enjoy coloring them in!
I hope you enjoyed today’s How to Draw Ganesha Step by Step tutorial + Video. I love drawing Ganeshas on the first page of all of my new sketchbooks! If you want to try recreating this motif using other art mediums, check out my complete guide on easy DIY Ganesha craft ideas for home for clay, canvas, and paper tutorials.
