How to Draw a Trash Can: Easy 10-Step Cartoon Tutorial

Looking for a fun, everyday object to practice your cartooning skills? This tutorial is perfect for young artists ages 5+ to master basic shapes like cylinders and ovals. All you need is a pencil, an eraser, and a piece of paper to bring this little trash can to life.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A colorful, finished cartoon trash can drawing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Rim

Pencil sketch showing the top rim and side walls of a cylindrical trash can.

Draw two long, parallel curved lines to form the sides of the can, then connect them with short curves at the top and bottom. Add a curved line across the top third to define the rim. Teacher's Tip: Keep these lines light; they act as the skeleton for your drawing.

Step 2: Defining the Body

Drawing the rounded bottom and side contours of the trash can.

Use overlapping curved lines to sketch the rounded sides of the can, finishing with a curved line at the base. Tip: Think of this as drawing a tall, slightly squashed soda can.

Step 3: Adding Depth

Adding a curved line near the base to create a 3D effect.

Draw a curved line near the bottom that follows the shape of the base. This adds a sense of volume. Tip: Make sure the curve matches the angle of the bottom line to keep it looking realistic.

Step 4: Drawing the Lid

Sketching the lid of the trash can with a flattened oval shape.

Sketch a flattened oval for the lid, adding a curved line across it to give it dimension. Connect it to the rim with a straight line. Tip: Imagine the lid is slightly tilted, which makes the drawing look more dynamic.

Step 5: Constructing the Handle

Drawing a detailed handle on the side of the trash can with bolt circles.

Use small straight lines to create a five-section handle, adding tiny circles at the ends for bolts. Tip: Use a ruler if you struggle with straight lines, but freehand is great for practice!

Step 6: Refining Handles

Refining the side handles of the trash can by erasing overlapping lines.

Outline the 'C' shaped handles on the sides, erasing any overlapping lines. Tip: This is where your eraser becomes your best friend—clean up those intersections for a professional look.

Step 7: Adding Overflowing Trash

Adding a lumpy trash bag and paper sack spilling out of the trash can.

Draw a lumpy trash bag and a paper sack spilling out of the top. Tip: Use irregular, wavy lines for the bag to make it look soft and full.

Step 8: Fun Details

Drawing small details like an apple core to add character to the trash.

Add an apple core and other scraps to the pile. Tip: The apple core is just a 'U' shape with a stem—keep it simple and recognizable.

Step 9: Final Touches

Adding vertical rectangular panels to the trash can body for texture.

Add vertical rectangular panels to the side of the can for texture. Tip: Keep the spacing between these rectangles even to show the can's structure.

Step 10: Coloring Time

The final colored trash can drawing with grey tones and shading.

Color your trash can! Use shades of grey for a metallic look, or get creative with bright colors. Tip: Use a darker grey on one side to create a simple shadow effect.