How to Draw Simba: Easy Step-by-Step Guide for Kids

Bring the Pride Lands to life with this easy-to-follow guide, perfect for young artists ages 7+. You will only need a pencil, an eraser, and a sheet of paper to capture Simba’s curious expression. Follow these steps to build confidence in your character drawing skills while practicing basic geometric shapes.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A vibrant, finished drawing of Simba from The Lion King, ready for coloring.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Head Shape

Pencil sketch showing the initial outline of Simba's head, brow, and neck fur.

Start by sketching the outline of Simba's head. Focus on the pointed brow and the 'W' shape for the upper lip. Teacher's Tip: Use short, quick strokes at the base of the neck to create the look of soft fur.

Step 2: Adding Ears and Facial Features

Detailed sketch of Simba's ears, open mouth, teeth, and nose structure.

Draw wide 'C' shaped lines for the ears, adding a smaller inner shape for depth. For the mouth, sketch the lower jaw and teeth. Teacher's Tip: Keep the teeth small and sharp to maintain his cub-like proportions.

Step 3: Sketching the Forelegs

Outline of Simba's front legs and paws showing toe placement.

Draw the front legs using overlapping ovals for the toes. Connect them to the body with long, smooth curves. Teacher's Tip: Use a 'zigzag' motion for the back of the legs to represent tufts of fur.

Step 4: Defining the Back and Belly

Sketch showing the transition from Simba's back to his belly and rear leg.

Create the back using a series of curved, jagged lines. Connect these to the rear leg and belly. Teacher's Tip: Imagine the spine line as a gentle arch to give Simba a playful, crouching posture.

Step 5: Shaping the Rear Leg

Refining the shape of Simba's hind leg and belly coloration.

Use smooth, curved lines to define the structure of the hind leg. Teacher's Tip: Ensure the leg looks sturdy by making the top part wider than the bottom.

Step 6: Finishing the Paws

Detailing the toes on Simba's hind foot.

Complete the rear leg by drawing the rounded, irregular shapes for the toes. Teacher's Tip: Keep the toes slightly uneven to make them look more natural and organic.

Step 7: Drawing the Tail

Sketching the long, curved tail extending from Simba's body.

Extend two long, 'S' shaped lines from behind the rear leg to form the tail. Teacher's Tip: A flowing tail adds movement to your drawing, making Simba look like he's ready to pounce.

Step 8: Adding the Tail Tuft

Adding the final tuft of fur to the tip of Simba's tail.

Add the tuft of fur at the end of the tail using short, jagged lines. Teacher's Tip: Vary the length of these lines to make the fur look fluffy.

Step 9: Drawing the Eyes

Detailed close-up of Simba's eyes with pupils and highlights.

Draw the eyes with a pointed corner and a central oval. Shade the pupil carefully. Teacher's Tip: Leave a tiny white dot unshaded in the pupil to create a 'glint' or sparkle, making Simba look alive.

Step 10: Bringing Simba to Life with Color

Final colored illustration of Simba, showcasing his golden fur and characteristic features.

Color your Simba using sandy yellows and warm oranges. Teacher's Tip: Use a darker shade of gold for the shadows under his chin and legs to give him a 3D look.