How to Draw Raphael: Easy 10-Step TMNT Tutorial

Ready to bring the toughest turtle to life? This tutorial is perfect for young artists ages 6+ who want to master character drawing. Grab a pencil, an eraser, and some paper to follow along as we break down Raphael’s iconic look into simple, manageable shapes.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A vibrant, finished illustration of Raphael from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, showcasing his red mask and green skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Jawline

Pencil sketch showing the initial curved jawline and chin of Raphael's face.

Draw a smooth, curved line to form the side of Raphael's face and chin. Teacher's Tip: Keep your pencil pressure light so you can easily adjust the shape if it looks a bit lopsided.

Step 2: Closing the Head Shape

The completed outline of Raphael's head shape.

Complete the head by drawing a matching curved line on the opposite side. Tip: Imagine you are drawing a rounded egg shape; this helps keep the proportions balanced.

Step 3: Adding the Mask

Raphael's face outline with the ninja mask and side ties added.

Draw two curved lines across the top of the face for the mask, adding small knots on the sides. Tip: Make the mask lines slightly wavy to show where the fabric wraps around his head.

Step 4: Sketching the Torso

Outline of Raphael's neck and upper torso area.

Extend two curved lines downward from the chin to create the neck and shoulders. Tip: Keep these lines smooth to give him that strong, heroic posture.

Step 5: Drawing the Belt

Raphael's torso with the signature belt and 'R' buckle added.

Draw a circle for the buckle with an 'R' inside, then add the belt straps. Tip: Use a ruler if you struggle with straight lines, but freehand adds more character!

Step 6: Defining the Shell

Detailing the chest and abdominal area of the turtle shell.

Add the abdominal muscles and the shell outline. Tip: Think of the shell as a series of overlapping plates; keep your lines clean to show the texture.

Step 7: Sketching the Feet

Adding the feet to the bottom of the turtle character.

Use simple curved shapes to outline the feet at the bottom of the torso. Tip: Keep the feet slightly wider than the legs to make him look sturdy.

Step 8: Adding Arms and Weapons

Drawing the arms and the sai weapons held by Raphael.

Draw the arms and his signature sai weapons. Tip: For the sai, draw a triangle first, then add the side prongs—it makes the shape much easier to manage.

Step 9: Final Facial Details

Adding the eyes and angry expression to Raphael's face.

Add the eyes and a furrowed brow to give him his signature 'tough' look. Tip: Use small ovals for the eyes and keep the brow lines sharp to show his personality.

Step 10: Color Your Masterpiece

The finished, colored drawing of Raphael from TMNT.

Time to bring him to life! Use a bright red for his mask and a deep green for his skin. Tip: Use light pressure for the base color, then press harder for the shadows to add depth.