How to Draw a Cactus
It’s drawing time! Today, we’re going to learn how to draw a cactus in just a few easy steps. This cactus drawing tutorial is super simple, perfect for kids or anyone who wants to draw a cute cartoon-style cactus!
In just 6 simple steps, you’ll learn how to draw a smiling, potted cactus with arms that looks like it came straight out of a cartoon. You can even download our free printable at the end to follow along.
You’ll Need:
- Paper
- Pencil or marker
- Printable step-by-step guide (grab it at the end!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Draw the Pot
Start by drawing a wide rectangle near the bottom of your paper. This is the top of the cactus pot. Underneath it, draw a slightly smaller trapezoid shape to make the base. It should look like a little flowerpot.
Step 2: Make the Cactus Body
From the top of the pot, draw a big oval or tall jellybean shape going up. This is your main cactus. Make the top rounded, it’s okay if it’s a little bumpy.
Step 3: Add Two Arms
Let’s give your cactus some arms. On one side, draw a curved line going out and up, then curve it back in toward the body. Do the same on the other side so your cactus looks like it’s raising its arms to say hi!
Step 4: Draw the Face
Time to add some personality. In the middle of your cactus, draw two small circles for eyes and a happy smile just underneath. You can even add some eyelashes or eyebrows if you want.
Step 5: Add Spikes
Let’s make it look more cactus-y! Draw small lines or tiny V shapes all over the body and arms. These are the cactus spikes. Don’t worry about spacing, they can go wherever you like.
Step 6: Decorate the Pot
Now for some fun, decorate your cactus pot. You can draw zigzag lines, hearts, dots, or stripes. Make it your own.
Final Touch – Color It In
Grab your crayons or markers and color in your cactus. You can go with classic green and brown, or make a rainbow cactus with a neon pot, it’s your creation, so go wild with colors.
Want to Practice Again?
Grab your free cactus drawing printable below and keep drawing anywhere you go.
Gallery Time: Share Your Cactus Drawing
We’d love to see your cool cactus drawing. Ask a parent or teacher to tag @drawtwist on social media or email it to us to be featured in our Artist Gallery.
Your artwork might inspire other young artists to start drawing too so don’t be shy, share your masterpiece with the world!
Cactus Fun Facts
- Cactus plants store water inside their thick stems so they can survive in hot deserts.
- Some cacti only bloom at night and have flowers that smell super sweet.
- There are over 2,000 types of cacti – some are tiny, and some grow taller than a house!
- Cactus spines aren’t leaves, they help protect the plant from animals and sunburn.
- The saguaro cactus can live over 150 years and grow arms like a tree.
Find more easy drawing ideas:
How to Draw Wings, How to Draw a Butterfly, How to Draw a Turtle, How to Draw a Cat, Easy Octopus Doodle Ideas to Try, Simple Whale Doodle Drawing Ideas
