How to Draw Squirtle: Easy 10-Step Pokémon Guide

Ready to bring your favorite Water-type Pokémon to life? This tutorial is perfect for young artists ages 6+ who want to practice basic shapes and character proportions. Grab your pencil, eraser, and paper, and let's start sketching this iconic turtle together.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A vibrant, finished illustration of Squirtle, the Water-type Pokémon, ready for coloring.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sketching the Head and Jaw

Pencil sketch showing a circular head shape with a rounded jawline for Squirtle.

Start by drawing a light circle for the head. Then, add a rounded jawline extending from the bottom. Teacher's Tip: Keep your pencil pressure light so you can easily erase the overlapping lines later!

Forming the Body

Squirtle drawing showing a larger circle added below the head to form the body.

Draw a larger circle beneath the head to serve as the main body. Ensure the two shapes overlap slightly to create a natural neck connection.

Drafting the First Arm

Drawing the first arm with V-shaped fingers on the side of the body.

Sketch an irregular shape for the arm using curved lines. Add two small 'V' shapes at the end to define the fingers. Tip: Keep the fingers rounded to match Squirtle’s soft, cartoon style.

Adding the Second Arm

Repeat the process for the opposite arm. Try to mirror the size of the first arm to keep your character balanced.

Sketching the Legs

Adding two legs with three pointed toes each at the bottom of the body.

Draw two irregular shapes at the base of the body for the legs. Add three small points at the end of each foot to represent toes.

Cleaning Up Your Sketch

The drawing after erasing unnecessary guide lines for a clean outline.

Carefully erase the overlapping guide lines inside the head and legs. This makes your drawing look clean and professional.

Detailing the Shell and Belly

Adding shell details and belly plates to the Squirtle drawing.

Draw the shell edge using wavy lines. Add a curved line across the chest and 'V' shapes for the belly plates. Tip: Use a ruler or steady hand to keep the perpendicular lines on the belly straight.

Drawing the Tail

Adding the signature curly, rounded tail to the Squirtle drawing.

Draw a rounded, swirling shape for the tail. This gives Squirtle his signature look! Make sure the spiral starts from the center of the tail shape.

Adding Facial Features

Adding the eyes, mouth, and nostrils to complete the face.

Draw a curved mouth and two small nostrils. For the eyes, draw two large ovals with smaller ovals inside for pupils. Add a small line above each eye for the brow.

Adding Color

The final colored Squirtle drawing with blue skin and a brown shell.

Time to bring him to life! Use shades of light blue for the skin, and yellow and brown for the shell. Tip: Try using colored pencils and layering your colors for a smooth, vibrant finish.