Great, then use the download button below to get your free tutorial.
Easy How to Draw an Elf Tutorial Video and Elf Coloring Page
Elf Drawing
Now your students can mix a little bit of body drawing practice with the holidays by learning how to draw an elf. This simple cartoon version has a basic human shape, but with an oversized head and pointy ears. And the great thing about drawing oversized heads is that it makes that cute face SO much easier to do.
This tutorial will walk students through drawing the symmetrical body and his colorful set of elf clothes. And those that wish to draw a girl elf can improvise on adding some more hair, or other accessories. This tutorial is not the one and only way to draw an elf, rather just a starting point for students to create their own.
Coloring tip: If coloring with crayons, try pressing extra hard on one side to create a little bit of a shadow. Or you are using markers, then an extra layer will do the trick too. The Stabilo® brand that I link to in my materials list do this shading trick really well.
Why Draw with Guides?
You may have noticed that all of the tutorials on this website have a dashed vertical line and horizontal line running through the center of each step. If students make their own centered lines on their own paper, before drawing, they will have an easy reference to follow. All they need to do is fold their sheet of paper in half both ways, make a crease, and unfold. The best part is, by the time the drawing is done and colored in, the creases will have disappeared!
Must-Have Christmas Elf Drawing Details
- Pointy ears – all elves have pointy ears, even Christmas elves.
- Short stature – elves are always short, averaging 3-4 feet.
- Festive colors – elves love Christmas and always dress in festive colors.
- Rosy cheeks – elves live in a cool climate and have a youthful appearance; both give them rosy cheeks.
- Point hats and shoes – the pointy hats and shoes are iconic to elves.
1. How to Draw a Cartoon Christmas Elf
Cartoon Christmas elves are fun to draw because you can draw them your way. Art for Kids Hub is a good place to learn to draw a cartoon elf.
2. How to Draw Buddy the Elf
Buddy the Elf is a beloved character from the movie Elf. Draw an animated version of Buddy with Art Land.
3. How to Draw a Japanese Christmas Elf
A Christmas elf that looks like it popped out of an anime is a unique way to depict Santa’s Little Helper. Art ala Carte does an awesome job with one of these.
4. How to Draw an Among Us Christmas Elf
A Christmas elf being the imposter is quite a shocker. Draw one with Cartooning Club How to Draw.
5. How to Draw Elf on the Shelf
Elf on the Shelf graces the mantles of homes all over the world. You can draw one with Cartooning Club.
6. How to Draw a Cute Elf
Most Christmas elves are cute, so why not draw them that way? Draw So Cute draws one of the cutest Christmas elves.
7. How to Draw an Elf Squishmallow
Many kids will get Squishmallows in their stockings and under the tree. You can draw a Squishmallow elf with Draw So Cute.
8. How to Draw an Elf Face
The elf’s face is the most important part of the elf. Art for Kids Hub shows how to draw the face up close.
9. How to Draw a Folding Elf Surprise
Christmas cards are best when they are handmade. This folding elf surprise by Art for Kids Hub is so unique and fun.
10. How to Draw a Christmas Elf Female
Not all elves are male. You can draw a female elf too, so you can learn how to depict every elf with Draw it cute.
How To Draw A Christmas Elf Step-By-Step
Supplies
Step 1: Draw the Head and Ears
Draw the lower half of the head and the ears. There’s no need to draw the top of the head because a hat will cover it.
Step 2: Draw Hat
Draw the hat on top of the head. You can draw the classic Santa hat in red, a pointy elf hat, or something unique.
Step 3: Draw Face
Draw the round nose, bright eyes, and smile for the elf. You can also draw hair coming out from under the hat, but this isn’t necessary.
Step 4: Draw Upper Body
Draw two arms coming down and an abdomen. Then add a collar, buttons, and belt.
Step 5: Draw Lower Body
Draw pant legs followed by pointy elf shoes. This will complete the elf aside from any details you want to add.
Step 6: Color
Color the elf in a way that you envision it. Red and green are traditional, but it’s fun to get creative.
Tips For Drawing A Christmas Elf
- Give it a personality – imagine what the elf will be like, and it can help you fine-tune the drawing.
- Use acrylics – this is a good way to brighten up your elf.
- Draw more than one – elves always work together, so draw Santa’s whole workshop of elves.
- Add toys – add toys or candy to the elf picture to make it more unique.
What Is A Christmas Elf Called?
A Christmas elf is often called Santa’s Little Helper because of the tasks they do for Santa at Christmastime.
When Did Christmas Elves Originate?
Christmas elves were first introduced in 1856 when Louisa May Alcott wrote a book called “Christmas Elves.”
What Do Christmas Elves Symbolize?
Christmas elves symbolize holiday cheer and Santa’s Naughty and Nice list. They are the ones who tell Santa who has been naughty or nice.
