How to Draw a 3D Cross: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Master the art of depth with this beginner-friendly 3D cross tutorial. Designed for ages 6 and up, this screen-free activity helps young artists practice perspective using only a pencil, eraser, and paper. Follow these clear steps to turn flat lines into a bold, three-dimensional shape.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A completed, colorful 3D cross drawing showing depth and perspective.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Upper Arm

Pencil sketch of an upside-down L shape representing the top corner of a cross.

Start by drawing an upside-down letter 'L'. This forms the top corner of your cross. Teacher's Tip: Keep your lines straight and light—this is just the skeleton of your drawing.

Step 2: Defining the Right Arm

Adding a second L shape to define the thickness of the cross arm.

Draw a second 'L' shape next to the first. This creates the thickness of the upper arm and begins the right side. Tip: Try to keep the gap between the two lines consistent for a professional look.

Step 3: Completing the Right Arm

Connecting lines to form the complete outline of the right arm of the cross.

Add a backward 'L' shape to connect your previous lines. This closes the outline of the right arm. Tip: Use a ruler if you struggle with perfectly straight lines!

Step 4: Outlining the Bottom

Sketching the lower section of the cross using a backward L shape.

Draw another backward 'L' shape to begin the bottom section of the cross. Tip: Ensure your cross is centered on the page to leave room for the final arm.

Step 5: Shaping the Left Arm

Drawing the left arm and bottom section of the cross.

Add an upside-down 'L' shape to finish the bottom and start the left arm. Tip: Check your symmetry—the left and right arms should look balanced.

Step 6: Finalizing the Front Outline

Completed flat outline of the cross shape.

Draw a final sideways 'L' shape to connect everything. You now have the flat front face of your cross! Tip: Erase any overlapping lines inside the cross now to keep it clean.

Step 7: Adding Depth to the Top

Adding depth lines to the top of the cross to create a 3D effect.

Draw an upside-down 'L' connecting the top to the left arm. This creates the 'side' of the cross. Tip: This is where the 3D magic happens—keep these connecting lines short.

Step 8: Detailing the Left Arm

Adding a trapezoid shape to the left arm to show depth.

Enclose a small trapezoid at the tip of the left arm. Tip: Imagine a light source coming from the top right; this side should be in shadow.

Step 9: Completing the 3D Structure

Finalizing the 3D structure by connecting the bottom arm sections.

Connect the bottom of the left arm to the base of the cross with an 'L' shape. Tip: Ensure all your 'depth' lines are parallel to each other.

Step 10: Adding Color and Shadow

Finished 3D cross drawing with shading applied to the side panels.

Color your cross. Use a darker shade for the side panels and a lighter shade for the front face. This contrast is what makes the drawing 'pop' off the page!