How to Draw Susan B. Anthony: Easy 9-Step Portrait Guide

Bring history to life by drawing a portrait of suffragist leader Susan B. Anthony. This tutorial is designed for students and beginners, requiring only a pencil, eraser, and paper. Follow these steps to master facial proportions and capture her iconic, determined expression.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

Finished portrait of Susan B. Anthony, colored and ready for display.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Eyes

Close-up sketch of Susan B. Anthony's eyes showing iris and pupil placement.

Start by drawing two curved lines for the upper eyelids. Add smaller circles inside for the irises and pupils. Teacher's Tip: Keep the eyes level with each other to ensure the face looks balanced from the start.

Step 2: Defining Brows and Nose

Detailed sketch showing the addition of eyebrows and the bridge of the nose.

Add pointed eyebrows above the eyes and use soft, curved lines to indicate the bridge of the nose. Tip: Use a light touch for the nose bridge to keep the face looking soft rather than harsh.

Step 3: Adding the Mouth

Drawing the mouth and nostrils with simple curved lines.

Draw the nostrils and the line of the mouth using gentle curves. Tip: A small, straight line for the mouth helps convey a serious and focused expression.

Step 4: Shaping the Face

Outlining the face shape and adding the chin dimple.

Outline the jawline and the hair framing the forehead. Don't forget the small dimple on the chin! Tip: Use long, sweeping strokes for the face shape to keep it smooth.

Step 5: Drawing the Hair and Ear

Adding the hair outline and the ear detail.

Draw a large curve over the head to define the hair and add the ear on the side. Tip: Keep the hair lines flowing naturally to mimic the texture of a bun.

Step 6: The Neck and Collar

Drawing the neck and the collar with a central button detail.

Draw two lines for the neck and a 'V' shape for the collar. Add a small circle at the center of the collar. Tip: This circle acts as a brooch or button, a classic detail of her era.

Step 7: Adding Shoulders

Adding the lace collar and shoulders to the portrait.

Extend scalloped lines from the neck to create the lace collar, then draw the shoulders. Tip: Use a steady hand for the scalloped edges to make the lace look delicate.

Step 8: Adding Texture

Adding fine details and texture lines to the hair and dress.

Use short, light lines to add texture to the hair and clothing. Tip: Vary the length of your lines to create a more realistic, layered look.

Step 9: Final Touches

Finalized line art of the Susan B. Anthony portrait.

Refine your lines and add any final shading to the hair and fabric. Your portrait is now complete! Tip: Erase any stray guidelines to make your drawing pop.

Step 10: Coloring

Add color to your portrait. Use dark tones for her hair and muted colors for her dress to maintain a historical, authentic feel.