Developing your drawing style: How to find your own style – without copying

You admire other artists and wonder, "How do I find my own drawing style?" The good news is: you don't have to "invent" a style. You develop it over time – here I'll show you how, without copying anyone else.

Especially in the beginning, we often look to others for inspiration. That's perfectly normal – and even a good thing! But at some point, the desire arises to create something of your own . Something that is recognizable and that suits you.

In this article, I'll show you step by step how to develop your own drawing style – with practical tips, inspiration, and a dose of serenity.

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🔸 1. Inspiration is allowed – copying is just the beginning

You can let yourself be inspired. Look at different artists, analyze what you like: – Is it the lines? – The faces? – The humor or the colors?

A little trick: Choose 3-5 favorite styles and try to create your own mix from them. That way you're not too close to any one particular style.

🔸 2. Draw regularly – even if it doesn't look "special".

Your style develops through doing, not thinking . The more you draw, the more habits, preferences, and idiosyncrasies emerge automatically.

👉 Tip: For 30 days, draw a subject every day – e.g., animals, hands, or everyday objects – and pay attention to how you draw , not just what.

🔸 3. Invent small rules for yourself to specifically develop your drawing style.

Your style thrives on recognition. Consider, for example:

– Do I always use thick lines? – Do my characters have large eyes? – Do I make shadows minimal or heavy?

Such small decisions make your style unique – without you having to consciously plan it.

🔸 4. Observe how you draw automatically

If you sketch completely freely from your mind – without a template – your natural style often reveals itself.

Draw, for example, a face, an animal, or a plant from memory. Then you can compare: ➡️ What patterns do you recognize? ➡️ What do you always do intuitively the same way?

🔸 5. Make conscious changes – to avoid getting stuck.

Sometimes habits creep in that bore you. Then it's time to develop your style further .

→ Try drawing with different materials → Do everything with only 3 lines → Or exaggerate certain features (e.g., oversized heads)

This way you stay active and your style grows with you.

🔸 6. Your style can change – that's not a style faux pas

Many believe they have to find the one style . But: style is a process , not a fixed goal.

What suits you today may feel different tomorrow – especially if you are growing as an artist, finding new themes, or simply want to try something new.

You don't have to invent your "own style"—you can develop your drawing style by drawing, reflecting, and enjoying the process. It's like a fingerprint: it emerges automatically when you stay true to yourself.

✨ Want to develop your style and looking for simple drawing ideas to practice? 👉 Then get my free drawing exercises, my books, or check out my other blog posts →

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