An elf is a mythological creature of German folklore. The elves of old generally resemble tiny humans. They were considered mischievous, causing diseases, bad dreams, or stealing children. Some were thought to be benevolent or helpful.
Elves remain a part of popular culture. They are seen everywhere from Christmas decorations to Keebler brand cookies and crackers. Even Santa Claus himself is said to be a "jolly old elf."
A number of anime and manga feature elfin characters, which may be identified by their large, pointed ears. These may mix Japanese and European mythologies. For example, in the anime Sword Art Online, elves of all shapes and sizes inhabit a video game world called ALfheim Online.
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Would you like to draw an elf cartoon in anime or manga style? This easy, step-by-step anime cartoon drawing tutorial is here to show you how. All you will need is a pencil, an eraser, and a sheet of paper. You may also wish to color your finished character.
If you liked this tutorial, see also the following drawing guides: Elf, Elf on the Shelf, and Anime Cat Girl.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Drawing an Anime Elf
1. Begin by drawing a circle. This will serve as a guide as you sketch the face.
2. Draw guide lines across the circle - a straight vertical line and two horizontal lines. These lines should meet at a perpendicular angle. Then, use a series of curved lines to draw the triangular chin.
3. Use the horizontal guide lines to help you place the squared anime eyes. Outline the upper and lower eyelids with thick curved lines. Enclose a large oval between them. Contour the upper lids and sides of the eyes with curved lines. Draw thick curved lines to form the eyebrows. Use additional curved lines to outline the bridge and tip of the nose, as well as the mouth.
4. Erase guide lines from the face. Then, begin sketching the hair. Use overlapping curved lines and curved lines that meet at points to form the strands. Note how the hair falls across one eye. Then, draw a long curved line across the side of and below the face.
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5. Erase unnecessary lines from the hair. Use a curved line to outline the edge of the hair and one side of the face. Then, extend curved lines outward and double the back upon themselves to enclose the pointed ears. Detail the curves inside each ear with overlapping curved lines.
6. Use long, curved lines to outline the hair and top of the head. Texture the hair with additional curved lines.
7. Extend curved lines below the head to outline the neck and shoulders. Draw diagonal lines on the neck and horizontal lines across the top of the chest to indicate the tendons and collarbone.
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8. Use long curved lines - some meeting at points - to complete the outline of the elf's hair. Texture the hair with vertical lines.
9. Detail the expressive eyes with overlapping ovals.
Color your anime elf. In anime and manga, cartoons of elves are often marked by unusual hair colors, such as green, pink, or blue.
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The Complete Anime Elf Drawing Tutorial in One Image
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