Draw It Again: The Power of Redrawing a Favorite
Redrawing a favorite character again and again isn't boring, it's practice. Learn why repetition builds drawing skill and confidence in kids.
Redrawing the same favorite character again and again is one of the best ways for kids to improve. Each version gets smoother and more confident, and kids can see their progress clearly. Repetition is practice, and practice builds skill.
Some parents worry when a child draws the same thing over and over. In reality, repetition is how skills grow.
Why repetition works
- Muscle memory. The hand learns the movements.
- Confidence. Each version gets easier.
- Visible progress. Compare first and tenth drawings.
- Experimentation. Small changes each time.
Weird favorites
Kids often fall in love with one character. The Crusty Goobers are a common favorite, and How to Draw: Crusty Goobers 2 gives kids who finished the first book even more weird characters to draw again and again.
Make repetition interesting
- Change expression each time.
- Change outfit.
- Change setting.
- Change size.
- Change style (fast, slow, pen, pencil).
Track progress
Date each version and line them up. Kids are often amazed. See how kids learn the value of practice.
Questions parents ask
Is it OK if my child draws the same thing over and over?
Yes. Repetition builds muscle memory, confidence and skill.
How does redrawing help kids improve?
Each version gets smoother as the hand and eye learn, and progress is easy to see.
How can I make repetitive drawing more interesting?
Encourage changes in expression, outfit, setting, size or style each time.
More in ways to learn to draw, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
- Guidelines and Outlines: Why Planning Lines HelpGuidelines and outlines help kids plan size and placement before drawing. Learn why planning lines help and how How to Draw books use them.
- The Benefits of Step-by-Step Drawing for KidsStep-by-step drawing breaks pictures into small steps kids can follow. Learn the benefits: confidence, focus, following directions and real skills.
- The Grid Drawing Method: Why It Works for KidsThe grid method helps kids draw accurately by copying one square at a time. Learn how grid drawing works, its benefits and how to get started.
- Drawing Maps: Geography Skills From a PencilDrawing maps teaches kids direction, scale and how places connect. Try these map-drawing activities, from a bedroom map to an alien planet.
