Draw a Bendy Character: Easy Step-by-Step Guide!

Unleash Your Inner Animator and Draw Bendy!

Have you ever been captivated by a character so much that you just had to bring them to life on paper? Bendy, the mischievous star of Bendy and the Ink Machine, has that effect on people. His vintage cartoon charm, mixed with a touch of the macabre, makes him an irresistible subject for artists of all levels.

This isn’t just another drawing tutorial; it’s an invitation. A chance to step into the wonderfully weird world of Joey Drew Studios and learn to capture the essence of its most iconic creation. So, grab your pencils (or stylus!) and prepare to unleash your inner animator!

Bendy: A Cartoon Icon Reimagined

Bendy and the Ink Machine isn’t just a game; it’s a love letter to the golden age of animation, with a dark and twisted twist. The game’s popularity stems from its compelling story, unsettling atmosphere, and, of course, its unforgettable visual style.

Bendy’s design is a masterclass in classic cartooning, drawing inspiration from characters like Mickey Mouse and Felix the Cat. Yet, he’s undeniably unique, with his devilish grin, pie-cut eyes, and constantly dripping ink, creating a striking and memorable visual. This fusion of classic and creepy has resonated with millions, making Bendy a modern cartoon icon.

Why Draw Bendy? More Than Just a Doodle

Drawing Bendy is more than just creating fan art; it’s a fantastic exercise in understanding cartoon style and character design. His simple yet expressive features make him an ideal subject for beginners.

By breaking down his form into basic shapes, you’ll learn to construct a character from the ground up. You’ll learn to capture movement and expression with simple lines. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s just plain fun! There’s a unique satisfaction in bringing this inky imp to life with your own hands.

Your Step-by-Step Journey Begins Now

Think drawing Bendy is beyond your capabilities? Think again! This tutorial is designed to be easy to follow, even if you’re a complete beginner.

We’ll guide you through each step, from the initial sketch to the final details. We’ll use simple shapes and clear instructions to ensure success. Prepare to be amazed at what you can achieve!

Embrace Your Creativity

Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things! This is your chance to experiment, explore, and discover your own artistic style.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, drawing Bendy is a journey of creative discovery. So, dive in, have fun, and let your imagination run wild! Who knows, you might just surprise yourself with what you can create.

Why is Bendy so appealing? It’s more than just his mischievous grin or those iconic pie-cut eyes. To truly capture Bendy on paper, understanding his origins and the world he inhabits is key. Let’s dive into the ink-soaked history of this cartoon icon.

The Ink-Credible World of Bendy: A Brief Backstory

Bendy’s world is steeped in mystery and old-school charm.

It’s a world that draws you in with its vintage aesthetic and keeps you hooked with its dark secrets.

To appreciate Bendy fully, we need to understand where he came from.

The Rise of Joey Drew Studios

Imagine a bustling animation studio in the 1930s.

That’s Joey Drew Studios, the birthplace of Bendy and his cartoon companions.

In the game Bendy and the Ink Machine, the studio is presented as a once-thriving hub of creativity.

However, it slowly descends into disrepair and eerie silence.

The studio’s decline is shrouded in mystery, hinting at dark experiments and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

This fictional studio, with its ink-stained walls and haunting atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for Bendy’s unsettling adventures.

It’s a place where dreams and nightmares intertwine, fueling the game’s unique appeal.

In Tribute to TheMeatly

Credit where credit is due: Bendy and the Ink Machine is the brainchild of TheMeatly.

This indie developer brought Bendy to life, crafting a world that resonates with gamers and artists alike.

TheMeatly’s vision is evident in every aspect of the game, from the character designs to the overarching storyline.

Without his creative spark, Bendy wouldn’t exist.

His unique blend of horror and cartoon nostalgia is a testament to his artistic talent.

Deconstructing Bendy’s Timeless Design

Bendy’s design is a masterclass in retro cartooning.

He embodies the rubber hose animation style, characterized by fluid movements and exaggerated expressions.

This style, popular in the early 20th century, gives Bendy his bouncy, unpredictable nature.

His simple yet striking features – the devilish grin, the pie-cut eyes, and the iconic horns – make him instantly recognizable.

The constant dripping ink adds a layer of unease, hinting at the darkness lurking beneath his cheerful facade.

It is a perfect blend of classic cartoon charm and unsettling horror elements.

Bendy’s visual appeal is a key factor in his widespread popularity.

Beyond Bendy: Meeting the Supporting Cast

Bendy isn’t alone in the world of Joey Drew Studios.

The game features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique designs and backstories.

Boris the Wolf, Bendy’s loyal companion, offers a touch of innocence in the studio’s bleak environment.

Alice Angel, with her twisted beauty and haunting presence, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

These characters, along with others like Sammy Lawrence, enrich the Bendy universe and make it a compelling world to explore.

Drawing these characters alongside Bendy can be a fun way to expand your artistic skills and further immerse yourself in the game’s lore.

Gather Your Art Supplies: The Tools of the Trade

Now that we’ve journeyed through the ink-stained world of Bendy and understood his vintage charm, it’s time to prepare for our artistic adventure. Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s gather the necessary tools. Think of this as prepping your animation studio, just like Joey Drew would have! Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

The Analog Artist’s Arsenal

For those who prefer the tactile experience of pencil on paper, you’ll need a few essential items. The beauty of drawing is its accessibility; you likely already have most of these!

• Pencils: A classic choice. A simple #2 pencil is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with different grades (HB, 2B, etc.) to achieve varying levels of darkness and shading. A mechanical pencil can also be useful for finer details.
• Paper: Smooth, white paper is ideal for drawing Bendy. Avoid paper that is too rough, as it can make it difficult to achieve clean lines. Sketchbooks or drawing pads are perfect for keeping your Bendy creations organized.
• Eraser: A good eraser is essential for correcting mistakes and cleaning up your drawing. A kneaded eraser is particularly useful for lifting graphite without damaging the paper.
• Ink (Optional): For a bolder, more defined look, consider using ink to outline your drawing. Fine-tipped markers or drawing pens are excellent choices. Experiment with different line weights to add depth and visual interest.

The Digital Drawer’s Desk

Prefer creating your art on a screen? No problem! Digital art offers a plethora of possibilities, from limitless color palettes to the undo button – a true artist’s best friend.

Software Suggestions

• Adobe Photoshop: An industry standard, Photoshop is a powerful tool for digital art. It offers a wide range of brushes, filters, and editing options.
• Procreate: This iPad app is a favorite among artists for its intuitive interface and robust features. It’s perfect for creating high-quality artwork on the go.
• Clip Studio Paint: Another popular choice, Clip Studio Paint is specifically designed for creating illustrations and comics. It offers a wealth of tools for line art, coloring, and special effects.
• Autodesk Sketchbook: A free option that still packs a punch! Sketchbook provides a clean and user-friendly interface, making it a great starting point for beginner digital artists.

Whether you choose a paid program or a free one, ensure it is compatible with your device and your drawing style.

Inspiration Station: Gathering Reference Images

Now, this is where the real magic happens! While creativity comes from within, inspiration often comes from without.

Before you even put pencil (or stylus) to paper, take some time to gather reference images of Bendy. Look at different poses, expressions, and details. Pay attention to the way his body moves and how his features are simplified.

Having a clear understanding of Bendy’s design will help you capture his essence in your own artwork. Search online, browse screenshots from the game, or even create your own reference poses using a Bendy toy or figure.

With your art supplies gathered and your mind brimming with inspiration, you’re now fully prepared to embark on your Bendy drawing adventure. Let’s get started!

The right tools in hand, we’re ready to embark on our artistic journey. Forget complex techniques for now; we’re starting with the basics. This approach makes drawing Bendy accessible, building a solid foundation for artistic exploration.

Step-by-Step Guide: Drawing Bendy from Simple Shapes

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to deconstruct Bendy’s iconic design into easily manageable steps.

Don’t worry about perfection; focus on the process and having fun. Remember, every artist starts somewhere.

Step 1: Laying the Foundation – Head and Body

We begin with the fundamentals, the building blocks of our cartoon character. Grab your pencil and let’s start with two simple shapes: a circle and a bean.

The circle will serve as the base for Bendy’s head. Lightly sketch it; we’ll refine it later.

Below the circle, draw a bean shape for the body. This will give Bendy his signature cartoonish slouch. Think of it as a slightly tilted oval with a curve.

These two shapes are the essential foundation for capturing Bendy’s form.

Step 2: Adding Limbs – Simple Lines and Shapes

Now, let’s give Bendy some limbs! Using simple lines, connect the head and body.

These lines don’t need to be perfectly straight. Remember, we’re aiming for a classic cartoon look.

For the arms, draw two slightly curved lines extending from the sides of the "bean" body.

For the legs, use similar lines extending downwards. Keep them relatively short and stubby.

These simple lines establish Bendy’s basic pose and proportions.

Step 3: Defining the Icon – Features and Form

Time to inject some Bendy-ness into our sketch! This is where we start defining his iconic features.

Let’s begin with that signature wide grin. Draw a large, curved line for the mouth. Add a smaller curved line inside to suggest the lower lip.

Next, add his devilish horns. These are simple, curved triangles positioned on top of his head.

Now, let’s refine the shape of his head and body, making the lines flow smoothly and organically. Erase any unnecessary guidelines.

This step brings Bendy’s recognizable silhouette to life.

Step 4: Inking (Optional) – Bold Outlines

If you want a bolder, more defined look, now’s the time to ink! Carefully trace over your pencil lines with a fine-tipped marker or drawing pen.

Experiment with different line weights. Thicker lines can add emphasis and visual interest.

Remember, inking is optional. If you prefer the softer look of pencil, you can skip this step.

Inking adds contrast and a polished look to your Bendy drawing.

Step 5: Erasing – Cleaning Up the Lines

Once the ink has dried (if you chose to ink), it’s time to erase any stray pencil marks.

Use a good eraser to clean up your drawing, leaving only the crisp, defined lines of Bendy.

This step ensures a clean and professional finish.

Step 6: Adding Personality – Gloves and Bowtie

Now for the fun part: adding details that bring Bendy’s personality to life! Let’s add his iconic gloves and bowtie.

Draw two simple circles or ovals at the ends of his arms for the gloves. Add a few small lines to suggest wrinkles or folds.

For the bowtie, draw a simple knot at the base of his neck. Then, add the two bow loops, shaping them like stylized wings.

These details are essential for capturing Bendy’s charm.

Step 7: Adding Depth – Subtle Shadows

Finally, let’s add some subtle shadows to give Bendy depth and dimension.

Think about where the light source is coming from and add shadows to the opposite side of his body, head, and limbs.

Use light, gentle strokes to create the shadows. Avoid making them too dark or harsh.

Subtle shading adds realism and visual interest to your Bendy drawing.

Remember to reference visual examples (images or videos) at each step. This will greatly enhance clarity and guide the reader effectively through the drawing process.

The simple shapes have transformed into Bendy himself – congratulations! But the adventure doesn’t end here. Now that you’ve mastered the fundamental form, it’s time to unleash your artistic potential and truly make Bendy your own.

Beyond the Basics: Level Up Your Bendy Art!

Drawing the basic Bendy is like learning the first chords on a guitar. You’ve got the foundation, but the real music comes from experimentation and finding your own rhythm. This section is your guide to taking your Bendy art to the next level, unlocking new creative possibilities and developing a unique artistic voice.

Posing for Success: Bendy in Action

One of the most dynamic ways to improve your Bendy drawings is to experiment with different poses. Static, standing figures are a great starting point, but bringing Bendy to life through action is where the real fun begins.

Think about what Bendy might be doing: dancing, sneaking, causing mischief. Try drawing him in dynamic stances, with exaggerated movements that capture his mischievous personality.

• Consider the story you want to tell with your image.* Is he surprised? Menacing? Joyful? Let the pose reflect his emotion.

• Use reference images of dynamic poses from other cartoons or even real-life photos to help you understand how the body moves and bends.

Remember, Bendy’s rubber hose animation style allows for extreme flexibility. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of what’s physically possible!

Expanding the Ink Machine Universe: Drawing the Crew

Bendy isn’t alone in the inky depths of Joey Drew Studios. Boris the Wolf, Alice Angel, and a host of other creepy and captivating characters populate this world.

Why not try your hand at drawing them?

Challenging yourself to draw other characters will not only expand your artistic skill set, but also deepen your understanding of the Bendy universe.

Each character has a unique design and personality. Boris is the gentle giant, while Alice Angel has a twisted, unsettling beauty. Experiment with capturing their distinct features and expressions.

Drawing these characters will introduce you to new shapes, proportions, and design elements. This will improve your overall drawing abilities, making you a more versatile artist.

Deconstructing the Design: Understanding Bendy’s Appeal

Bendy’s design isn’t just random; it’s carefully crafted to evoke a specific feeling. Understanding the principles behind his design can unlock new creative avenues for your own art.

• Rubber Hose Animation: Research this classic animation style. Note how Bendy’s limbs bend and stretch in ways that defy reality.

• Retro Cartoon Aesthetic: Study cartoons from the 1920s and 30s. Notice the use of simple shapes, bold outlines, and limited color palettes.

• Character Design Principles: Explore how elements like large eyes, a wide grin, and devil horns contribute to Bendy’s personality. Are they cute or sinister? Or both?

By analyzing these aspects, you can apply similar principles to your own character designs, creating characters that are visually appealing and emotionally resonant.

Sharpening Your Skills: Resources for Aspiring Artists

The internet is a treasure trove of resources for artists of all levels. Don’t be afraid to explore and take advantage of the wealth of information available.

• Online Tutorials: Websites like YouTube and Skillshare offer countless drawing tutorials, covering everything from basic anatomy to advanced rendering techniques.

• Art Communities: Join online forums and groups where you can share your art, receive feedback, and connect with other artists.

• Reference Materials: Use online image search engines to find reference photos of poses, anatomy, and other subjects.

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The most important resource of all is consistent practice. Set aside time each day or week to draw, even if it’s just for a few minutes. The more you practice, the faster you’ll improve.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them. Every drawing is a step forward on your artistic journey. So grab your pencil, embrace your creativity, and keep drawing!

Alright, go grab your pencil (or stylus!) and start bending those characters to your will! I can’t wait to see what awesome bendy character creations you come up with. Happy drawing!