The Tutorial That Will Make You Rethink How You Draw Rocks

Of all the subjects that put a fire into your creative ideas, drawing a rock would probably barely give off a spark unless you are are studying geology. But there could very well be times that you might need to draw rocks. When that happen, you might discover (as I have) that they can actually be interesting to study, draw and can add some interesting aspects to your art. Drawing rocks will be another skill you can add to your ever-growing internal portfolio.

learning how to draw a rock

Rocks are not hard to draw, though it might seem challenging when you first try to brainstorm how to go about it.

Check out these basics for how to draw any type of rock.

Warm up! Drawing smooth rocks

drawing rocks that are smooth

Step 1:

Draw a basic round oval with an uneven shape.

Step 2:

Using whatever medium you choose, shade the smooth rock shape around the sides and bottom. Leave a lighter (if not white) area where the light would hit the rock.

Step 3:

Add some shading under the rock. This will strengthen, define and ground your rock.

Getting more complicated: A jagged or misshapen rock

This is the rock that you will most likely need to understand how to construct. This is very basic but as you begin to understand the shaping and shading process, you will become more prolific and confident with your rendering.

drawing rocks that are large and misshapen

Step 1:

Draw an uneven, somewhat jagged top shape of your rock per the desired perspective. Add the bottom part of the rock in the same uneven, jagged manner. It may take a while — it never seems to look like at rock at this stage, thus making you needlessly re-draw it until you get it right. There is no need to worry too much at this stage since the shading is where it will actually be taking shape for the most part.

Step 2:

Now, shade in where your jagged lines may have created natural crevices and where overhang will create shading on the sides. Then shade the top of the rock where subtle shadowing may occur due to an uneven surface.

Even more advanced: How to draw crystal-like rocks

Crystal rocks are easy to draw with these steps that break it down into simple shapes.

Drawing crystals

Step 1:

Form and connect a series of triangular shapes and triangular “rooftop” shapes together.

Step 2:

Draw the bottom edge of the rock, which is usually formed like any other jagged rock.

Step 3:

Shade where the light would not hit at the angle you want your rock placed. This will enhance the lovely faceted look of the crystals.

See? It is fun to get a primer on drawing rock shapes.

Simple or detailed, your rocks will blend in nicely when you have added the other supporting details of the setting your rocks are placed it. Water, dessert sands and any soft greenery is sure to make you rocks look great in their natural setting.

blending rocks into scenery

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