Welcome, aspiring artists and fellow art enthusiasts! In this step-by-step drawing tutorial, we will delve into the world of Sword Art Online and learn how to draw Suguha Kirigaya, the charming Princess Leafa, in her real-life appearance. Prepare your pencils, ignite your imagination, and let’s embark on this artistic adventure together!
Meet Suguha in Real Life
Suguha Kirigaya, also known as Princess Leafa or simply Leafa, is a skilled player of ALfheim Online (ALO) and an integral character in the SAO universe. With her short black hair and dark grey eyes, Suguha exudes a sense of mystery and allure. Her endearing, almost blackish eyes perfectly capture her emotions, especially when she finds herself in the presence of her cousin.
While she possesses a cute and youthful appearance, she has also experienced significant growth recently. Suguha’s captivating charm lies in her ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from excitement to embarrassment, through her expressions.
Materials and Tools
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s make sure you have the necessary materials and tools ready. While you are free to use any drawing tools you prefer, here are some recommendations:
- Pencils: It is best to use a set of pencils with varying lead hardness (2B, 4B, 6B) for sketching and shading.
- Paper: Choose a smooth, medium-weight drawing paper that can handle pencil strokes without smudging.
- Eraser: Have a soft eraser handy for correcting mistakes and refining your sketch.
- Inking Pens: For the final inking stage, consider using waterproof, archival ink pens with different tip sizes for line variation.
- Coloring Materials: If you wish to add color to your drawing, colored pencils or markers can be used.
Step-by-Step Drawing Guide
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of bringing Suguha Kirigaya to life on paper. Remember, each image represents a specific step in the guide. The red color indicates the current drawing step, while the grey color represents the basic proportions sketch. The black lines show previously drawn elements. Follow along and take your time to master each stage of the drawing process.
Part 1: Basic Sketch
In this initial stage, we will focus on creating a solid foundation for our drawing. Use light pencil strokes to establish the basic structure and proportions of Suguha Kirigaya’s figure. Pay close attention to her overall pose. Remember, this step sets the groundwork for the refined sketch.

Part 2: Refining the Sketch
Now that we have the basic structure in place, it’s time to refine the sketch and add more details to Suguha’s likeness. Pay attention to the intricate elements, such as her eyes, nose, mouth, and clothing. Take your time to capture her unique personality and bring out the essence of Princess Leafa. Use the previously drawn lines as a guide and gradually refine the sketch until it accurately represents the character.












Part 3: Inking
Once you are satisfied with the refined sketch, it’s time to bring out the boldness and clarity of Suguha Kirigaya’s features by inking the drawing. Grab your preferred ink pens and carefully outline the finalized sketch. Emphasize the contours, shadows, and important details to make your artwork pop. Don’t rush this stage, as precision and attention to detail are key to achieving a polished final result.

Part 4: Coloring and Shading
If you wish to add color to your drawing, this is the stage where you can bring Suguha Kirigaya to life. Choose your desired coloring materials, whether it’s colored pencils or markers, and carefully apply the colors to achieve a harmonious and vibrant composition. Consider the lighting and shading to add depth and dimension to your artwork. Experiment and have fun with this stage, as it allows you to infuse your personal style into the drawing.
That covers how to draw Kirigaya Suguha, and she’s just one of several Sword Art Online characters we’re planning to add guides for, so there’s more from that world on the way. You can also check out video versions of some guides on the YouTube channel if that’s more your speed. Sign up for the weekly digest using the form at the top of the page, or follow along on Pinterest and Facebook so you don’t miss when the next one drops.