How to Draw a Pair of Shorts (Easy Step by Step)
You'll learn to draw a pair of shorts using simple shapes and curved lines. This easy step-by-step guide will show you how to create the waistband, sides, legs, and a cute drawstring bow.
- Start drawing shorts using simple, familiar shapes.
- Form the waistband, sides, and legs with curved lines.
- Create a cute drawstring bow using a bumpy knot and two loops.
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Shorts are a fun first clothing drawing because they are made from simple shapes you already know. You will use curved lines for the waistband, sides, and legs, plus a bumpy knot and two loops for the bow. The drawstring bow gives them a cute, finished look.
- Easy
- 10 minutes
- 8 steps
You need: paper, a pencil, an eraser, and crayons or markers for coloring.
Start drawing
In this article (7 sections)
How to draw a pair of shorts step by step
How to Draw a Pair of Shorts · tinyhandscreate.com
Step 1: The waistband top
Draw a long, gently curved line across the top, then bend each end down a little to make short sides. It looks like a wide, shallow upside-down tray.
Step 2: Right side and string
On the right, draw a long curved line that starts at the waistband and bows outward as it goes down. Then, near the middle, draw a small hook shape like a little number 7 for the top of the drawstring.
Step 3: The bottom hems
Draw two gently curved lines near the bottom, one on the left and one on the right, with a gap between them. The right one connects to the end of the right side.
Step 4: The leg gap
In the gap at the bottom, draw a narrow upside-down V with a rounded top. Its two lines end where they meet the hems.
Step 5: The belt line
Under the waistband, draw a slightly slanted line from the left edge to the right edge, but stop in the middle to leave a gap. Add a small loop on each side of the gap for the bow.
Step 6: Left side and pocket
On the left, draw a long curved line from the waistband down to the bottom hem to match the right side. Then draw a curved pocket line inside it that swoops from the belt line down to the left side.
Step 7: The knot
In the gap in the middle of the belt line, draw a small bumpy blob. This is the knot that holds the drawstring.
Step 8: Pocket, loop and string
On the right, draw a curved pocket line that swoops from the belt line down to the right side. Then add a small loop on the right of the knot, and draw a long, narrow loop hanging down from the knot for the drawstring.
All done!
Go over your lines with a marker, then color it in.
Finished your pair of shorts? Keep the pencils out and learn how to draw a rocket or how to draw a shooting star next.
Tips for drawing a pair of shorts
- Draw the left and right sides the same way, so the two legs end up matching in width.
- The leg gap is the trickiest part. Start at the rounded top and let the two lines slant outward as they go down to the hems.
- Leave a gap in the belt line before you start the loops. The knot fills that gap, so the bow is easy to place.
- Make the two pockets curve the same way, one on each side, so the shorts look balanced.
Free pair of shorts coloring page
Want to go straight to coloring? Open this pair of shorts coloring page at full size and print it. It is the same drawing you just learned, with clean lines ready for crayons or markers.
How to color your pair of shorts drawing
Try bright stripes or polka dots in summer colors like sunny yellow, sky blue, or coral, with a drawstring in a different color. For a creative twist, give the shorts a beach pattern with tiny palm trees or fish.
Pair of shorts fun fact for kids
Many shorts have a drawstring inside the waistband. You pull it tight and tie a bow so the shorts stay up without a button or zipper.
Questions about drawing a pair of shorts
What shapes do I need to draw shorts?
You need curved lines for the waistband, the sides, and the bottom hems. Add a narrow upside-down V for the gap between the legs, then a bumpy knot and loops for the drawstring.
How do I make my shorts look like they have a drawstring?
Draw a small knot in the gap in the middle of the belt line, then add a loop beside it and a long loop hanging down. Letting the string curve a little makes it look soft.
How can I make my shorts look more fun?
Add patterns like stripes, stars, or waves on the legs. A drawstring in a bright contrasting color makes them stand out.
