Hot air balloons can fly to amazing heights! Take your drawing to new heights by building on a few simple shapes to create this 5-step design.
Step 1: Start with a large circle shape with a small ellipse beneath it and an even smaller ellipse beneath that one. Notice the distance between shapes.
Step 2: Add curves that follow the cross contours of the round shape. This will be the seams/sections of the balloon. Draw a small rhombus beneath the smallest ellipse. This will be the bottom of the basket.
Step 3: Add curved lines on each balloon seam for stripes. Get creative and add more stripes or other patterns as desired. Make the rhombus into a small cube shape with lines attaching to balloon.
Step 4: Erase part of original circle no longer needed. Connect basket with more lines. Add tone using a series of different pressures. Start filling the tone section by section using a quick, curved back-and-forth motion. Keep the left side of each section light while the right side of each section should be darker (more pressure with pencil). The left section of the basket should be lighter than the rest.
Step 5: Blend tones using a blending tool or finger. Go over some of the darker tones to create more contrast. Use a different pressure on the designs so they stand out.
Extra time: Blend tones further for a smooth finish. Use a kneaded eraser to highlight the lightest areas of the balloon sections. Add criss-cross pattern on basket for a woven appearance.
