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How to draw Kirito’s portrait (Sword Art Online)


Welcome to this exciting drawing tutorial where you’ll learn how to draw the face of Kirito, the beloved protagonist from Sword Art Online. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your artistic journey, this step-by-step guide will help you capture the unique facial features and personality of the Black Swordsman.

Appearance and Story: Unveiling Kirito’s Essence

Before we delve into the drawing process, let’s take a closer look at Kirito’s appearance and the story behind his character. Kirito, whose real name is Kirigaya Kazuto, is a skilled swordsman and a survivor of the virtual reality MMORPG Sword Art Online. With his iconic dark-colored clothing and dual-wielding technique, he earned the nickname “Black Swordsman.” Throughout his adventures, Kirito showcases determination, resilience, and unwavering courage, making him a beloved character among fans. By understanding his appearance and story, you’ll be better equipped to portray his essence in your artwork.

To draw inspiration and explore various interpretations, it’s worth mentioning a few other similar characters with distinct appearances and relationships, such as Asuna, Kirito’s partner in Sword Art Online; Sinon, a skilled sniper from Gun Gale Online; and Suguha, his loyal sister. Each of these characters contributes to Kirito’s journey, adding depth and complexity to his story.

Materials and Tools: Gear Up for Your Artistic Adventure

Before we begin, let’s gather the necessary materials and tools to bring your drawing to life. Here’s a list of recommended supplies:

  • Pencils: HB, 2B, and 4B
  • Drawing paper or sketchbook
  • Eraser: Soft and kneaded
  • Ink Pens or fineliners
  • Colored pencils, markers, etc.

Please note that these are recommended materials, and you’re free to use any other art supplies that you’re comfortable with. Now that you’re equipped let’s dive into the step-by-step process of learning how to draw the face of Kirito.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide: Unveiling Kirito’s Face

Creating a detailed drawing of Kirito’s face involves several key steps. Throughout the process, we’ll utilize a combination of light pencil strokes to establish the basic structure. The images will serve as your visual reference. Let’s get started!

Part 1: Basic Sketch – Laying the Foundation

Begin by creating a basic structure of the sketch to establish the proportions. Use light pencil strokes to outline the shape of his head and placement of facial features.. Remember, the red color in the image indicates the current drawing step. Starting from step 2, you’ll notice the grey color which represents the basic proportions sketch, and the black color will show the previously drawn lines.

Step 01

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Part 2: Refining the Sketch – Adding Details and Proportions

In this stage, focus on refining the basic sketch by adding more details to Kirito’s face. Pay close attention to his characteristic hairstyle, facial expressions, and the intricate elements of his eyes. Gradually develop the proportions and features with light pencil strokes, ensuring accuracy and capturing the essence of his character.

Step 02

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Step 03

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Step 04

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Step 05

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Step 06

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Step 09

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Step 10

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Part 3: Inking – Outlining and Final Touches

Once you’re satisfied with the refined sketch, it’s time to ink your drawing. Using a fine pen or marker, carefully trace over the essential lines to create clean and bold outlines. Pay attention to the intricate details, such as the strands of hair and the expressions in Kirito’s eyes. After outlining, erase the underlying pencil marks to reveal your finished inked drawing.

Step 11

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Part 4: Coloring and Shading – Bringing Kirito to Life

Now comes the exciting part—coloring and shading! Select your desired color palette and bring Kirito’s face to life with vibrant hues. Add depth and dimension by shading the different areas of his face, considering the light source and creating subtle variations. Experiment with blending techniques and highlights to add realism and capture the essence of Kirito’s character.

Step 12

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Tips and Techniques: Elevate Your Artistry

As you embark on your artistic journey, here are some valuable tips and techniques to help you refine your skills:

  • Study reference images to understand Kirito’s unique facial features and expressions.
  • Experiment with different shading techniques, such as hatching and cross-hatching, to add depth to your artwork.
  • Practice capturing emotions by paying attention to the subtleties of Kirito’s facial expressions.
  • Use blending tools, such as blending stumps or cotton swabs, to achieve smooth transitions between colors and shades.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they are an essential part of the learning process. Embrace them as opportunities for growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to master drawing Kirito’s face?

A: Mastering any skill takes time and practice. The duration may vary depending on your current skill level and the amount of time you dedicate to practice. Remember to enjoy the journey and celebrate your progress along the way.

Q: Are there specific drawing techniques that can help me improve my overall artwork?

A: Absolutely! Here are a few techniques to enhance your drawing skills:

  • Practice sketching regularly to improve your hand-eye coordination.
  • Study anatomy to better understand facial proportions and structures.
  • Experiment with different art styles and mediums to broaden your artistic horizons.

Congratulations on completing this step-by-step drawing tutorial on capturing Kirito’s face! With each stroke of your pencil and each moment spent honing your skills, you’ve unlocked your artistic potential. Keep practicing, exploring, and creating. Share your artwork with the world and inspire others to embark on their own creative journeys. Don’t forget to support us by sharing this tutorial with your friends and considering a small donation on Buy Me a Coffee. For more exciting tutorials and updates, follow us on:

Now, go forth and create your masterpiece!

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