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How To Draw A Bear

Here’s a tutorial (in speed sketch mode) for my drawing class showing how to draw a bear from photographic reference (which is probably the safest way to draw a bear).

I begin with a light, gestural blocking of basic shapes and develop it from there.

I switch back and forth from line to tonal shading.

Take note of how I reposition the pencil in my hand — I change my grip — so that I can draw with the side of the point as well as the tip. This allows me to use different pressures and angles which aren’t possible when holding the pencil as if I am writing. This grip also lets me use my entire arm instead of just my wrist and fingers. Try it. See how it feels.

For those who need to know, I’m using a 5B drawing pencil from start start to finish. There’s no eraser in sight. If I make a mistake I just draw over it.

 

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Alvalyn Lundgren

Alvalyn Lundgren is a creative entrepreneur, podcaster, and author who has been freelancing for more than 40 years. She is the founder of Alvalyn Creative, a strategic creative consultancy focusing on brand strategy, visual design, and illustration for businesses, organizations, and independent authors. She is also the founder of several educational initiatives: Freelance Road Trip, Occuprise Network, and Alvalyn Creative Academy, and teaches part time in professional design programs with UCLA Extension and ArtCenter Extended Studies. She resides in southern California. She is the creator of Freelance Road Trip — a business school and podcast for creative freelancers. She teaches design and design practice in certificate programs and independently. Her new book, "Freelancing By Design: Essential Strategies and Proven Tactics To Build a Thriving Freelance Business From Your Creative Work" releases on July 1, 2026.

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