Use a wood mannequin for figure drawing and develop both drawing and observation skills in kids and adults alike.
Updated September 2024
Do you have a drawing mannequin? You might remember one from your own childhood. Basically it’s a wooden figure with joints that can be positioned and studied for observational drawing.
It’s a great place to start when your child is ready to move on from body tracing and expresses a desire to draw the human body.
How to Use a Drawing Mannequin with Kids
MATERIALS
- Paper
- Pen or pencil (any drawing tool will work)
- Wood mannequin
INSTRUCTIONS
- Set up drawing invitation
If your child is expressing a desire to work on their drawing skills as it relates to people and bodies, set up a simple but inviting art activity.
Set out some paper, a drawing tool, and the mannequin. - Observe closely
Observational drawing is drawing what you see. So, before your child can begin draw, they need to spend some time observing closely the form of the mannequin. They can arrange the mannequin into a pose first.
- Draw!
After spending some time observing the mannequin, your child can draw what they see. We like to teach children to look at the shapes and lines that they see and draw those, rather than get bogged down with the details.
- Repeat!
Rearrange the mannequin and try it again!
You can also check out our Drawing Skills Master Class! Our engaging virtual lessons and follow-along booklets cover the essentials of drawing for kids, including mastering lines and shapes, creating realistic shading and value, and understanding the magic of perspective.
More Drawing Ideas for Kids
- How to Make Frida Kahlo Portraits for Kids
- 13 Art Prompts for Kids to Foster Creativity
- How to Draw Abstract Self Portraits
- Figure Drawing with Kids
- Drawing Faces for Kids
- The BEST Art Supplies for Drawing
Does your child want to explore the world of drawing and expand their skills? Check out our three-part Drawing Skills Master Class for kids! Your child can learn to draw at home with 3 unique modules: Line & Shape, Light & Shadow, and Perspective. With at-home video lessons and easy-to-follow printable workbooks, your child will build skills and confidence as they learn to draw!
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Photo by Rachel Withers
