How to Draw Christmas

Originally, Christmas tree ornaments were made of colored glass and were the primary decorative pieces. In continuation of this tradition, these ornaments still find a definite place in the festival decorations. If you are sketching a Christmas tree, you may well be required to sketch the ornaments. Here is a step-by-step guide to teach you how to draw Christmas ornaments:

• Understanding the composition. If you observe the fundamental geometrical design of an ornament, you will realize that is simple. It is composed of a circle, rectangle, straight lines, and curves. Some of them are juxtaposed and others are partially overlapping.

• Preparations. Keep a number of pencils, a sharpener, an eraser, and colors, handy. Sketch with a light hand as you may need several iterations before reaching to the final work.

• Drawing the basic structure. Start with the largest section, which is a large circle. This is the primary structure of the ornament and the others are only accessories. It features the decorative elements of the piece and visible from a distance. You will do good to use a circular stencil, compass, or any other instrument for precision drawing. The reason is that the real life pieces are set in perfect spherical shapes, and a freehand work is not likely to replicate the effect.

• Rectangles. Draw a slightly overlapping rectangle near the top of the sphere. Its width is kept at almost 3 to 4 times its length. Rub off the overlaid portion of the rectangle such that it appears to be an adjoined part of the sphere. Another rectangle, half the size of the original one is placed along the width of the bigger rectangle, thereby forming the topmost portion.

• Hook. The Christmas ornaments are meant to be hanged on the branches of the tree. A hook is used for the purpose. It appears like a mirror image of a double-lined question mark. A threaded loop can also be used in the place of the hook.

• Flat or spherical. Depending upon your choice and considering the difficulty level, choose between a flat circular pattern and a spherical appearance. The only way to create a sphere is to tweak the design pattern on the primary circle. For instance, if your design features color bands along the circumference, you can use slightly curved stripes instead of the straight ones. This brings out a ball-like structure. Any design molded this way will produce the desired results. However, if your design is figurative or complex, refer to a picture to get the proportions right.

• Color patterns. The Christmas ornaments are invariably available in vibrant colors, including crimson, fiery red, yellow, orange, blue, silver, and gold, among others. While deciding upon the color scheme, always imagine your piece against a leafy green background. The use of glittering colors will add to the charm of your ornament.