How to Draw Trees Step by Step (Easy for Beginners)

Drawing trees is a great way to practice shapes, shading, and line work. In this guide, you’ll learn how to draw a simple tree step by step, even if you’ve never picked up a pencil before.

Let’s start with a simple sketch of a tree with a trunk and leafy top, using just pencil and paper.

🌳 Materials You’ll Need

Pencil (HB or 2B)
Eraser
Paper or sketchbook
Optional: colored pencils or pens

✏️ Step-by-Step: Draw a Simple Tree

Step 1: Draw the Tree Trunk

Start with a vertical line in the center. This is your guide. Then draw two slightly curved vertical lines for the sides of the trunk.

High-contrast pencil drawing of tree trunk and main branch bases with shading and a vertical guideline, on white pape

Step 2: Add the Main Branches

From the top of the trunk, draw a few large branches splitting outwards. Keep them uneven and organic.

Dark pencil drawing of tree trunk with three textured branches and strong vertical shading, shown on white textured paper

Step 3: Outline the Canopy

Sketch the rough shape of the foliage. Use light, wavy lines to create a fluffy cloud shape.

Tree drawing with trunk and branches shaded in dark pencil and bold outline of cloud-like canopy above, on white background

Step 4: Add Texture to the Bark

Inside the trunk, draw vertical lines and slight curves to simulate bark texture. You can also darken one side for light shading.

Step 5: Detail the Leaves

Add small squiggly lines and tiny curves inside the canopy to suggest leaf clusters. Don’t worry about being perfect!

Detailed pencil drawing of a tree with high-contrast foliage texture and shaded bark, showing leaf clusters and canopy depth

Step 6: Shade and Final Touches

Use gentle shading to darken parts of the foliage and trunk. Blend with your finger or a blending stump if you wish.

🎉 Final Result

You’ve drawn your first tree! It’s okay if it’s not perfect—trees are all different. Keep practicing by changing the trunk shape, canopy size, or adding background.