How to Draw a Sneaker – Step by Step

In this step by step drawing lesson, we’ll draw a sneaker. This subject may appear a little intimidating, but it’s easier to draw than you may think. We’ll take it a step at a time and use simple shapes to piece the drawing together.

Let’s get started.

Step 1 – Draw Two Basic Shapes

We’ll begin by drawing two basic shapes. The shape on the left will become the back portion of the sneaker while the shape on the right will become the middle. For this reason, be sure to leave enough space on the right for the toe and enough space at the top for the top of the shoe.

Step 2 – Draw the Toe of the Sneaker and the Top

Next, we’ll draw a simple, curved line for the toe of the sneaker. This line extends out from the shape that was drawn for the middle portion. We’ll also add a slightly curved line for the top of the sneaker. On the inside of this line, we’ll draw an ellipse for the opening.

Step 3 – Draw Lines for Some of the Initial Details

Now we have the basic overall shape of the sneaker in place. We can next begin adding some of the details. We’ll draw a line for the tongue of the shoe. Notice that this line works its way all the way down to the toe.

We’ll also draw a deformed circle for the label on the side and a line for where the sole meets the canvas. A line is also drawn for the right flap of the shoe. Here again, this line should extend all the way down to the toe of the sneaker.

Step 4 – Draw Openings for the Shoe Laces

Now we’re ready to add the openings for the shoe laces. Each opening is made up of two slightly deformed circles. These circles are deformed since we’re not viewing the shoe directly from the side. Because of the angle, we see these openings more as ellipses, rather than circles.

We’ll also add the pinstripe down the sole. A slightly thicker line can be used here.

While we’re at it, we’ll refine the bottom contour of the shoe and add a curved line for the rubber toe.

Step 5 – Add Some Shoe Laces

Using the openings as a guide, we’ll next add the shoe laces. Notice how the shoe laces overlap the openings. Pay special attention to where each shoe lace makes its way across the tongue. Take your time and work slowly. Draw lightly with your pencil.

Step 6 – Add the Star and Some Stitching

Next, we’ll draw a star on the inside of the label on the side. Here again, this star is slightly deformed because of the angle. We’ll also draw a few dashed lines for the stitching. You can take this a little further, if you wish. You may decide to add double stitching or add a bit more to the label. Perhaps you’ll decide to add your own logo.

Step 7 – Finish the Drawing of a Sneaker with Ink

You may decide to make your drawing a little more polished by adding ink over the top of your pencil lines. Use a technical drawing pen or even a brush and go over your sketch. Be sure to include some variety in the marks. Locations where the shoe is a little thicker are great places to make the line a little thicker. This helps to create the illusion of form and adds variety.

You can also add a bit of shading using hatching. In this case, a bit of shadow is added under the shoe. Some shading is also applied to the inside of the shoe and down the tongue – under the laces. Less light is hitting in these areas so it makes sense to add some shadow here. Shading also adds the sense of volume and makes your drawing appear a little more realistic.

After the ink has dried completely, you can use a kneaded eraser to remove any remaining pencil marks from the surface.

Now our drawing of a sneaker is complete.