How to Draw Graffiti Letters

Last Updated: March 8, 2023 Tested

Though the style you choose for your graffiti letters is ultimately up to you, there are a few standards that go for all graphics. Method one outlines a simple, foolproof way of creating vivid, stylized graffiti letters; method two takes on the same task in a more complex, skillful manner. Pencil at the ready!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Drawing Simple Graffiti

1
Draw the outline sketch for the letters in pencil.
2
Add actual lines for the graffiti designs on the letters. Most graffiti designs are connected, intersecting or on top of one part of the other.

Advertisement
3
Fill in the basic colors.
4
Add darker tone on the graffiti colors.
5
Add more details by drawing a design on the graffiti. You can choose any design that you want. Metallic, balloon, fluffy, gummy, and so on. I chose drawing cracked lines on the sample.
6
Add the cast shadow to complete the graffiti.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Creating Complex Graffiti Design

1
Draw the outline sketches for the letters.
2
Add the actual lines for the graffiti designs on the letters. Draw pointed lines intersecting the others.
3
Erase the unnecessary lines.
4
Fill in the basic color.
5
Add the highlights and shadows.
6
Instead of adding shadows, choose a bright color that is contrasting the colors of the letters. Graffiti colors almost always have contrasting colors. However, you can also use colors that complement each other.
7
Add more designs on the background to finish the graffiti.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I draw a transparent graffiti with just a 2b pencil, hb, and 2h pencil?

Phishtacheo

Community Answer

Of course you can, just use some creativity and you can make it with pretty much any medium, even paint programs.
Question

Are there any other ways to add color to my graffiti?

Community Answer

Sure there are, just use the pencils, pens, or any other coloring utensils that you think would look good on your drawing.
Question

How do I draw the word "JohNde"?

Phishtacheo

Community Answer

If you're new to graffiti and can't think of a way to write it, just go on Google Images and search for a graffiti alphabet and write your word like that.

Warnings

If your teacher or some snitch sees your tag on a wall, fence etc., and on your binder than you can get in a lot of trouble. Only graffiti where it is permissible on school grounds etc. If there is nowhere to do so, lobby the principal and school board for a place. It's a good exercise in asking for community projects.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2
Be careful if you draw these in class.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2
If anyone starts copying your exact copy, ask them to draw it while you watch them.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2
Ask permission first, if you are thinking of drawing graffiti on someone else's property or possessions.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 3