First, let’s take a look (pun definitely intended) at what you’ll need. Grab a graphite pencil, some paper to draw on and an eraser. We recommend using an electric eraser because we’ll be erasing smaller areas later for highlighting. Now you’ve got your supplies, let’s get drawing! 

How to draw an eye: 

Drawing the eye structure:
We’ll start with a few circles for the base of the eye. These will be erased later so don’t worry too much about them. 
1. Lightly sketch a circle first.
2. Add another circle inside the first for the iris.
3. Add a third smaller circle for the pupil.
4. Draw an eye shape on top of those circles. Make sure the middle of the eye aligns with the middle of the iris and pupil. 
5. Taper the eye in and add a small point for a tear duct.

Adding definition:
6. Now, darken the outer corner and inner edge of the eyes.
7. Add the eyelid line.
8. Erase those first circles you started with.
9. Add shading to the pupil. It helps to fan the lines outward to suggest where the colour might be. 
10. Strengthen the circle and add lines for definition.

Drawing eyelashes:
11. Darken the top eyelash lines.
12. Flick the pencil upwards for lashes.
13. Use a crisscross pattern for realistic eyelashes. For a realistic eye drawing, it’s a good idea to vary the lines and direction of the lashes. 
14. Add definition to the bottom eyelash line of the eye.
15. Begin adding small wisps of eyelashes on the lower lash line.
16. Vary the lines in direction and length again.

Shading and highlights:
17. Add light shading to the outer corner to show depth.
18. Blend with a finger to enhance the shadows around the outer corner and iris. 
19. Erase areas inside the iris for highlights, keeping the pupil dark. This will help look like light reflecting off the eyes. 
20. Show off your work, you’re all done! You can now add charcoal pencils or coloured pencils for a pop of colour or leave as is. 

Now you’re well on your way to creating a realistic eye drawing! 

Looking for more? Check out our how to create more realistic drawings how-to video. Or put your skills to the test with this wedding portrait drawing in graphite pencil project.