some old art works of mine

Seeing my old sketches made me think about how much I loved the process of creating these cartoon characters back then! It wasn't always easy, but there are a few things I learned that really helped me improve, especially when trying to get that expressive anime feel in my 'character illustration.' First off, starting with simple shapes is a game-changer. When I was sketching these characters with their 'big eyes' and 'wavy hair,' I'd often begin with basic circles for the head and then build out the features. This helps immensely with proportions and getting the overall pose right before diving into intricate details like a 'collared shirt and skirt.' It’s like building a basic mannequin first, which makes dressing them up and giving them personality so much easier! Paying attention to the direction of the gaze and the tilt of the head, even in a simple 'pencil sketch,' can add so much life. Another tip I found incredibly useful was studying different expressions. You can see in some of my artworks, like the one with the 'winking eye' and 'puckered mouth,' or another with a 'wide smile,' how much expression can convey personality and mood. I used to spend time practicing drawing just eyes, then just mouths, then combining them. Looking at real people, or even other artists' 'anime-style character' designs, helps a lot in understanding how to exaggerate features effectively without making them look unnatural. Don't be afraid to really push those emotions! For unique touches, don't be afraid to experiment. One of my characters even has 'swirly ears' and another a cool 'horned helmet'! These little details are what make a character truly memorable and give them a distinct identity. Think about what makes your character unique – is it a quirky accessory, a distinct hairstyle, or a specific outfit? Even something as simple as a 'large bow' can completely change a character's vibe and tell a story about them. These elements are what make an 'old artwork' still feel fresh and exciting today. And let's talk about materials! Most of these were done as 'pencil sketches' in my trusty 'spiral-bound sketchbook.' There's something so satisfying and forgiving about the feel of pencil on paper. You don't need expensive digital tablets or fancy paints to start; a good old pencil, an eraser, and a sketchbook are absolutely perfect for practicing your character designs. I found that just daily sketching, even short 15-minute sessions, made a huge difference in my hand-eye coordination and confidence. It's all about consistency! If you're interested in drawing specific characters, like if you're trying an 'Ellie Williams drawing' or any other fan art, remember to pay attention to their key features but also inject a bit of your own style. It’s a wonderful way to learn from existing designs and to show your appreciation for a character. What I learned from drawing these characters is that consistency, observation, and passion are absolutely key. Every line, every shade, even the ones in my 'old artworks' from years ago, taught me something new and helped me evolve as an artist. Don't be afraid to look back at your own progress! I hope sharing these old pieces and a few of my insights encourages you to pick up your own pencil and start sketching! What kind of characters do you love to draw?