how to draw dragons

Author: Kale James
100 pages

How to Draw Dragons is a step-by-step guide to mastering one of fantasy art's most iconic and enduring subjects. This book introduces you to the essential building blocks of dragon illustration—anatomy, poses, expression, and character design—through 40 dynamic projects featuring Western dragons, elemental dragons, ancient serpentine dragons, hatchlings, and dragons from global mythologies. Each drawing is designed to be approachable, making complex forms accessible for beginners while offering depth and variety for more experienced artists.

Each design is broken down using the Vault Editions 12-step drawing process, making complex dragon forms approachable, repeatable, and ideal for building confidence and skills. Whether you're a professional illustrator or fantasy art enthusiast just getting started, this guide will deepen your understanding of dragon construction, movement, and imaginative variation.

Download Included:

A custom set of Procreate brushes (liners and shaders) optimised for dragon illustration
A free digital copy of the publication – perfect for drawing on your tablet or on the go
A printable, gridded practice workbook to support your drawing progression
What you'll learn to draw:

Western Dragon Head · Western Dragon Head II · Western Dragon · Wyvern Dragon · Amphiptere · Hydra · Lindworm · Celestial Dragon · Faerie Dragon · Quetzalcoatl · Eastern Dragon · Antaboga · Fire Dragon · Lava Dragon · Ice Dragon · Crystal Dragon · Forest Dragon · Earth Dragon · Storm Dragon · Air Dragon · Water Dragon · Hatching Dragon · Hatchling · Parent & Hatchling · Undead Dragon · Dragon Skull · Attacking Dragon · Dragons Clashing · Coiled Dragon · Crawling Dragon · Diving Dragon · Dragon Guarding Treasure · Flying Dragon · Landing Dragon · Perched Dragon · Resting Dragon · Roaring Dragon · Running Dragon · Sleeping Dragon · Proud Dragon · Drawing Scales · Dragon Eyes · Ridges, Spines & Crests · Dragon Tails · Dragon Scales

With carefully written entries paired with every drawing, this book offers more than just how-to guidance—it's a deep dive into the forms, function, and mythology of dragon art across cultures and fantasy traditions.

Start your journey into dragon illustration today and bring these legendary creatures to life with bold lines, dynamic poses, and powerful symbolism.