How to Draw Steven Universe: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to bring the Crystal Gems' leader to life? This tutorial is perfect for young artists ages 6+ looking to master cartoon proportions. Grab your favorite pencil, an eraser, and some paper to start building Steven's iconic look through simple, geometric shapes.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A vibrant, finished illustration of Steven Universe, ready for coloring.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Head Shape

Pencil sketch showing the initial outline of Steven Universe's head and jawline.

Lightly sketch the shape of Steven's head. Use soft, curved lines to outline his ear, sideburns, and jawline. Teacher's Tip: Keep your pencil grip loose to ensure these lines stay light and easy to adjust later.

Step 2: Forming the First Arm

Drawing the first arm and hand of Steven Universe using simple parallel lines.

Extend two parallel lines down from the neck to create the arm. Use small 'U' shapes for the fingers. Tip: Draw the fingers slightly rounded to give them a natural, cartoonish look.

Step 3: Adding the Second Arm

Adding the second arm and hand to the Steven Universe character sketch.

Repeat the process on the other side of the head to form the second arm. Ensure the sleeve length matches the first arm for balance. Tip: Check that your hand size is consistent with the first one you drew.

Step 4: Defining the Torso

Sketching the torso and shirt line for Steven Universe.

Draw vertical lines below the arms to outline the abdomen. Add a horizontal curved line to separate the shirt from the pants. Tip: Keep this line slightly curved to suggest the roundness of Steven's belly.

Step 5: Sketching the First Leg

Drawing the first leg and sandal of Steven Universe.

Outline the leg bent at the knee and draw the sandal. Add details for the toes and sandal straps. Tip: Use short, quick strokes for the sandal straps to make them look like fabric.

Step 6: Adding the Second Leg

Completing the second leg and adding zipper detail to Steven Universe's pants.

Draw the second leg and sandal to match the first. Add two small vertical lines at the top of the pants for the zipper detail. Tip: Ensure the legs are spaced evenly to keep the character looking balanced.

Step 7: Drawing the Star Emblem

Adding the iconic star emblem to Steven Universe's shirt.

Draw a five-pointed star on the center of the shirt. Tip: If you struggle with the star, draw a light circle first and place the points of the star along the edge of the circle.

Step 8: Adding the Hair

Sketching the curly, voluminous hair of Steven Universe.

Use connected, wavy lines to enclose Steven's signature curly hair. Tip: Don't worry about making it perfectly symmetrical; Steven's hair is naturally messy and fun!

Step 9: Facial Features

Adding the facial features including eyes, nose, and smiling mouth to the Steven Universe drawing.

Draw the eyes, nose, and mouth. Add teeth and a tongue inside the mouth for extra detail. Tip: Draw the pupils as small, dark circles to give him an expressive, happy look.

Step 10: Bringing Him to Life with Color

The final colored drawing of Steven Universe.

Time to color! Use pink for the shirt and sandals, yellow for the star, and blue for the jeans. Tip: Use a light peach or tan for his skin to complete the classic look.