How to Draw Sunglasses: 30-Minute Step-by-Step Guide

What you'll learn

Drawing sunglasses involves breaking down the complex shapes into simple geometric forms like circles, ovals, and rectangles. This helps beginners understand spatial relationships and proportions in everyday objects.

What you'll need

✏️ Pencil (HB or 2B)🩹 Eraser📄 Paper or sketchbook⏱ 30 minutes of focus

Step-by-step: how to draw sunglasses

Start by drawing two large ovals side by side for the lenses. Ensure they're aligned horizontally.

Add a rectangle connecting the top of the lenses for the bridge of the sunglasses.

Sketch two smaller rectangles extending from the sides of the ovals for the temples (arms) of the sunglasses.

Refine the lens shapes, adding subtle curves where necessary to mimic the actual shape of sunglasses.

Add thickness to the temples by drawing lines parallel to the original rectangles.

Finish by adding details such as any visible screws, hinges, and reflections on the lenses.

Before you start: what to look at

Notice the curve of the lenses' bottom edges: they rarely form a perfect oval and often have a slight upward curve. Observe where the bridge meets the lenses, as this can vary in width and thickness. Pay attention to how light reflects on the lenses, which can highlight their curvature and transparency.

Pro tips for drawing sunglasses

—Keep your initial lines light. This makes it easier to adjust proportions as you refine the drawing.

—Imagine the sunglasses in three-dimensional space and consider how the arms connect to the lenses.

—Use consistent spacing to ensure symmetry, especially between lenses.

—Look for distinctive features of different sunglasses models to add character to your drawing.

Common mistakes drawing sunglasses

—Misaligning the lenses, making one appear higher or larger than the other.

—Forgetting to add thickness to the temples, resulting in flat-looking arms.

—Overlooking the curvature of the bridge, leading to a stiff, unrealistic connection between lenses.

Self-evaluation checklist

Evaluate the symmetry and proportion between the lenses and other parts. Ensure the geometric forms are clear and accurately represent the object. Check that adjustments made during refinement maintain the overall balance.

Frequently asked questions

How do I draw realistic reflections on the lenses?

Identify where the light source is and lightly sketch simple shapes, like ovals or lines, on the lenses to represent reflections. Keep them subtle and ensure they follow the lens curvature.

What should I focus on to maintain symmetry?

Check the alignment of the lenses and the consistency in their size and shape. Use light guidelines to ensure the bridge and temples are evenly positioned and symmetrical.

How can I make the frames look three-dimensional?

Add parallel lines to indicate thickness, especially on the temples and bridge. Use shading along the edges and beneath the temple tips to enhance the depth and volume of the frames.

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