How to Draw in Perspective

The world of drawing implies having knowledge as well as skill to try to obtain the best results in each creation. Those people who are interested in going one step further in their drawings should bet on giving them a depth that is realistic; and for this you must know how to draw in perspective.

To do so, it is necessary to choose vanishing points through which the horizon line of the drawing can be placed, in addition to creating lines that are born from those points and that allow the placement of the respective elements that make up the drawing.

Since the lines return in view of the horizon, the drawing will thus have an element that will enjoy depth. Next we are going to explain the steps you must follow to know how to draw in perspective, being our recommendation that you start with simple figures before starting with very elaborate creations.

Instructions for drawing in perspective

Next we are going to teach you how to draw in perspective, attending to different ways of doing it:

Using a single vanishing point

1. In this case, you will first need to draw a horizon line across the paper. In this way you should think about the place where you want the eye level of the person viewing the drawing to be. Draw this line lightly with a pencil, which you can use a ruler for more precision.
2. Then make a pencil mark on the horizon where you want the vanishing point to be. Single vanishing point perspective has a single focal point at which all lines of interest meet. You must decide the place that should take all the attention and place a mark to create this vanishing point. Keep in mind that it does not have to be in the center, but can be placed on either side if you prefer.
3. Then you will have to proceed to draw the lines that extend to the vanishing point. To do this you will use the ruler, making it pass through the vanishing point of the horizon. You can tilt it in the direction you prefer and create the respective perspective lines. You can create as many as you want to be able to later make the drawing.
4. Once the above is done, you can draw the geometric objectyou want. You need to use the ruler to create a minimum of three or four perspective lines.
5. Once this is done, you will only have to practice until you can draw all kinds of landscapes or streets. All this will help you when it comes to mastering this model of drawing. As you learn, you will end up mastering the technique.

Although at first it may seem complicated, as you practice you will be able to achieve better results and master how to enjoy drawing in perspective.

Using two vanishing points

In the event that you want to learn to draw using two vanishing points, you must follow these steps:

1. You will first need to use a ruler to draw the horizon line on the paper. Once you have decided where you want the eye level of the person viewing the drawing to be. Draw a smooth line along the ruler.
2. Later you must point out two vanishing points on the horizon. To do this you must draw two small points that are as far away as you consider. Although there is no specific regulation to place these points, those that are placed symmetrically do not look natural. It is more realistic if the points are placed without being centered.
3. Once the above is done, it is time to draw three or four perspective lines, which must extend from each of the vanishing points. To do this, place the ruler on one of the two vanishing points and draw a smooth line towards where you want to place the subject of the drawing. Then draw two or three more lines from the same vanishing point; and then repeat the process with the other vanishing point, so that the perspective lines of both points come together.
4. Then you will have to use the perspective lines to draw the flat top of, for example, a box, so that you can practice, since from that grid it is easier for you to draw the subject.
5. Once you know the above, it’s time to start practicing. You can start with boxes or square elements that are easy to make. In this way you can learn the basics to later make more complex elaborations.

Adding a third vanishing point

If you want, you can also learn how to draw in perspective with a third vanishing point. To do this you must do the following:

1. Although in most cases two vanishing points will suffice. If you want the user to feel like they are looking at the element from above or below you will need to add a third vanishing point.
2. To get started, place a vanishing point above or below a horizon line. Create this line and add two vanishing points to it, as if you were going to use two vanishing point perspective. Then add the third vanishing point, either above or below the horizon.
3. Next you will have to draw the lines that extend from the additional vanishing point. Place the ruler over the third vanishing point and draw about three or four lines extending up or down across the horizon.
4. Later you will be able to create geometric figures with a much greater depth. This is the case of buildings in perspective, where after locating their vanishing point perspective lines, you must draw a square on those lines to make the base. You will then draw along the lines of the third vanishing point to create the sides. Finally, you will close the lower part of the figure using lines from the vanishing point of the horizon line.

What do you need to draw in perspective?

• Pencils
• Paper
• Eraser
• Rule