horse outline drawing easy for kids

Easy Horse Outline Drawing for Kids: Simple Step-by-Step Guide

By Brian Anderson
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Are your little artists eager to try their hand at drawing? Why not start with an easy and fun subject like a horse? Horses are fascinating creatures, and their simple outlines make them perfect for young artists learning to draw. With just a few basic shapes and lines, your kids can create their own horse masterpieces.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of drawing a horse step by step, using simple shapes that your kids can understand and imitate. With a little patience and practice, they'll be horse-drawing pros in no time!

Understanding Horse Outlines

Before we start drawing, it's essential to understand that a horse's outline can be broken down into simple shapes. This makes it easier for kids to draw and helps them understand the horse's basic structure.

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Horse Coloring Book For Children Hand Drawn Vector, Horse Hand Drawn, Horse Coloring Book, Horse Vector PNG and Vector with Transparent Background for Free Download
Horse Coloring Book For Children Hand Drawn Vector, Horse Hand Drawn, Horse Coloring Book, Horse Vector PNG and Vector with Transparent Background for Free Download
a cartoon horse that is outlined in black and white
a cartoon horse that is outlined in black and white
a horse with a butterfly on it's head in the grass coloring pages for kids
a horse with a butterfly on it's head in the grass coloring pages for kids

When we look at a horse, we can see that its body is roughly oval-shaped, its head is a circle, and its legs are long, straight lines. Once your kids understand these basic shapes, they can start to draw a horse.

Drawing the Basic Horse Shape

To start drawing a horse, have your kids draw an oval shape on the paper. This oval will serve as the body of the horse. Remind them not to draw too wide or too short an oval, as this can affect the overall look of the horse.

a horse that is outlined in black and white, it looks like he's standing
a horse that is outlined in black and white, it looks like he's standing
the outline of a horse is shown in black and white, it appears to be running
the outline of a horse is shown in black and white, it appears to be running
someone is drawing a horse with a pencil
someone is drawing a horse with a pencil

Next, have them draw a smaller circle above the oval for the horse's head. This circle should touch the oval at the top, indicating where the horse's neck meets its head. Your kids can then erase any unwanted lines, leaving them with a simple horse outline.

Adding Details to the Horse Outline

Once the basic horse shape is in place, it's time to add some details. Have your kids draw two small circles at the front of the horse's head for the eyes. These circles should be touching the main circle, giving the horse a friendly and alert expression.

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Next, they can draw a small rectangle below the eyes for the horse's nostrils. This addition will give the horse more character and make it look more realistic. They can also draw a longer, curved line below the nostrils for the horse's mouth.

the outline of a horse is shown in black and white, with words below it
the outline of a horse is shown in black and white, with words below it
the outline of a horse's head
the outline of a horse's head
a black and white drawing of a horse on a pillow cover with the outline of a running horse
a black and white drawing of a horse on a pillow cover with the outline of a running horse
Free Printable Horse Outlines
Free Printable Horse Outlines
a horse that is standing up in the middle of a line art style drawing, it's black and white
a horse that is standing up in the middle of a line art style drawing, it's black and white
How to Draw a Horse Outline
How to Draw a Horse Outline

Drawing Horse Legs and Hooves

Now that the horse's body and head are complete, it's time to add the legs and hooves. This step is crucial in making the horse look balanced and more lifelike.

Have your kids draw four long, straight lines coming down from the oval body. These lines should be roughly the same length, representing the horse's legs. They can then draw smaller ovals at the end of each line for the horse's hooves.

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Drawing Horse Leg Positions

When drawing horse legs, it's essential to show the horse in action or resting. For example, they can draw the horse's legs bent, as if it's running or trotting. Alternatively, they can draw the legs straight down, showing the horse standing still.

a horse running in the grass with mountains in the background coloring page for adults and children
a horse running in the grass with mountains in the background coloring page for adults and children
a man writing on a chalkboard with a horse drawn on it in front of him
a man writing on a chalkboard with a horse drawn on it in front of him
Jazdecký kôň | Omaľovánka na stiahnutie
Jazdecký kôň | Omaľovánka na stiahnutie

Another fun variation is drawing the horse rearing up on its hind legs. For this, they can draw two of the horse's legs lifted up and the other two bent at the knee, supporting the horse's weight. This position is challenging but undoubtedly impressive!

Drawing Horse Manes and Tails

A horse's mane and tail are essential features that can add movement and texture to the horse outline. Your kids can draw flowing, wavy lines for the mane, starting from the horse's neck and running down to the shoulders. They can also draw a long, flowing line for the horse's tail, starting at the base of the horse's rump and extending down to the hind legs.

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For a more realistic look, they can add shorter, wavy lines throughout the mane and tail, showing where the horse's hair is flowing in different directions.

Adding Equipment to the Horse Outline

Once the horse outline is complete, your kids can add equipment to make their drawing more engaging. For example, they can draw a saddle on the horse's back, complete with reins and stirrups. They can also draw a bit in the horse's mouth, showing that the horse is being ridden.

Alternatively, they can draw a halter on the horse's head, indicating that the horse is being led or trained. They can also add a bridle, bit, and lead rope for a more detailed look.

Drawing Horses in Motion

To draw horses in motion, your kids can use what they've learned about horse outlines and add some action lines. These lines show the direction of the horse's movement and can help to create a sense of speed and animation.

For example, they can draw wavy lines behind the horse, showing where it's kicking up dust or sweat as it runs. They can also draw curved lines in front of the horse, showing where it's moving towards or away from the viewer. These techniques will help your kids create dynamic, lively horse drawings.

Encourage your kids to keep practicing and exploring their artistic skills. With time and patience, they'll master the art of horse drawing and be proud of their accomplishments. Happy drawing!

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