How to Draw Chibi

One of Japan’s most-gifted books of Christmas 2023. A gifty, professional-level guide on how to draw anime-manga in a cute “miniature” style. From a top commercial illustrator, foundational techniques for beginners and committed artists

In the simplified chibi-style where every line counts, the smallest adjustments affect the entire composition. Building good habits from expert advice is crucial!

How to Draw Chibi is penned by expert illustrator Chiharu Yumenouchi from the front lines of commercial chibi character art—from official merch design of the multibillion-dollar hit series Demon Slayer and cult bestseller Apothecary Diaries, to original art exhibits, McDonalds ads, Pokémon Pocket cosmetics, music videos, Hatsune Miku figure designs, and much much more.

Packed tight with cuteness, this nifty guide teaches professional methods you wish you knew, and know-hows that bring out “tiny and adorable” charms to their fullest. Illustrated demonstrations do much of the heavy lifting so you can grasp the concepts at a glance—perfect for visual learners not so fond of reading long blocks of text.

Learn all kinds of techniques, from the basics of composition to facial expressions, poses, fashion variations, and color palette. You’ll also find step-by-step directions on making custom stickers, keychains, and pin badges, plus character design suggestions for popular themes like school uniforms, princes, and wizards. This book is brimming with hints to help spark your own creations! And, as a bonus, it also has downloadable poses data you can trace and practice!

Features of this book include:

• Beginner-friendly: clear explanations on a simpler drawing style, starting from the basics.
• Illustrated demonstrations that are easy to grasp.
• Tips for drawing out expressions and poses that you may not know had a name.
  

Contents:

• Chapter 1: The Basics of Chibi Characters
• Chapter 2: Expressions and Poses
• Chapter 3: Fashion and Accessories
• Chapter 4: Coloring Techniques
• Chapter 5: The Creative Process
• Chapter 6: Theme-Based Design Guides
• Chapter 7: Pose Reference Collection

Chiharu Yumenouchi is a prolific commercial illustrator known best for their merchandise design, a portfolio representing a wide array of hit series such as Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, Apothecary Diaries, Bungou Stray Dogs, and Haikyuu to name a few. Beyond familiar franchises, Yumenouchi’s work is also characterized by exceptional variety, involving art exhibits, pop-up shops, film promotion bonuses, music video illustrations, collab café goods, confectionary brand tie-ins, game cosmetics, and figurine character designs. An exceptional professional artist that industry brands turn to for merchandizing their products, Yumenouchi is an incredible teacher for aspiring artists to turn to likewise for advice. Follow their social media for more in their iconic chibi and yume-kawaii (dreamy-cute) style!