Why Use a Grid for Portraits?
Portrait drawing is one of the most challenging art forms because human faces have complex proportions that our brains often misinterpret. The grid method helps overcome these biases by breaking the face into manageable sections.
The Challenge of Facial Proportions
Common Mistakes Without a Grid
- Eyes drawn too high on the head
- Mouth and nose incorrectly sized
- Asymmetrical features
- Incorrect spacing between features
How the Grid Solves This
By focusing on one square at a time, you draw what you actually see, not what you think you see.
Setting Up Your Portrait Grid
Choosing Grid Size
For portraits, we recommend:
- 5×5 grid: Good for simple portraits
- 6×8 grid: Better for detailed work
- 8×10 or larger: Ideal for photorealistic drawings
Positioning the Grid
Align your grid so that:
- Key features fall on grid lines (helps accuracy)
- The face is centered in the frame
- There's appropriate space around the subject
Drawing Process
Phase 1: Map the Foundation
In your first pass through the grid:
- Mark where key features intersect grid lines
- Sketch the overall head shape
- Indicate the position of eyes, nose, and mouth
Phase 2: Build the Structure
Add more detail to each section:
- Eye placement and basic shapes
- Nose shadow areas
- Mouth contours
- Hairline and ear positions
Phase 3: Add Values and Details
Develop each square further:
- Shade to create form
- Add subtle details
- Build up tonal range
Phase 4: Unify and Refine
- Erase grid lines carefully
- Blend sections together
- Add final details and highlights
Tips for Portrait Success
Study the Reference First
Before drawing, observe:
- Overall face shape
- Unique features
- Light direction
- Dominant shadows
Draw Lightly at First
Start with very light lines so corrections are easy and grid lines erase cleanly.
Focus on Shapes, Not Features
Within each grid square, see abstract shapes rather than "an eye" or "a nose."
Use Grid Labels
Label your grid (A1, B2, etc.) to keep track of which square you're working on.
Take Breaks
Step back frequently to view the whole piece—it's easy to lose perspective when zoomed in.
Common Portrait Grid Mistakes
- Grid too coarse: Use more squares for detailed work
- Ignoring the background: Include enough context
- Rushing the mapping: Accuracy in phase 1 saves time later
- Heavy-handed grid lines: They should be barely visible
Digital Grid Advantages
Using Grid Maker for portrait grids offers:
- Precise, perfectly spaced grid lines
- Customizable line color and opacity
- Labels that match your drawing paper
- Option to convert reference to grayscale (helps see values)
Practice Exercise
Try this beginner exercise:
- Find a clear, well-lit portrait photo
- Use Grid Maker to add a 5×5 grid
- Print the gridded reference
- Draw a matching 5×5 grid on your paper
- Spend 30 seconds per square mapping shapes
- Gradually refine over multiple passes
Conclusion
The grid method transforms portrait drawing from intimidating to achievable. By breaking the face into smaller sections, you can focus on accuracy and build confidence with each piece. Start with Grid Maker to create your first portrait grid today!