The Grid Drawing Method: Why It Works for Kids
The 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.
The grid method helps kids draw accurately by breaking a picture into small squares and copying one square at a time onto a matching blank grid. It builds observation, proportion, patience and pencil control, and produces impressive results that boost confidence.
Artists have used grids for centuries to copy and enlarge images. It works just as well for kids.
How grid drawing works
1. The original picture has a grid over it.
2. The child has a matching blank grid.
3. They copy what is in each square, one at a time.
4. Gradually, the full picture appears.
Benefits
- Observation. Looking closely at each square.
- Proportion. Everything ends up the right size.
- Patience. Square by square.
- Pencil control. Short, careful lines.
- Confidence. Accurate, impressive results.
- Calm. Many kids find it soothing.
A friendly first grid book
Draw by Grid: Cute Cartoon Monsters is a great start, with friendly monsters that are fun to reveal square by square.
Tips
- Start with one row at a time.
- Use a finger to keep your place.
- Draw lightly at first.
- Look carefully where lines cross square edges.
Who it is for
Grid drawing suits careful, patient kids and many children from about age 7. Younger children can try it with bigger squares. See why grid drawing suits careful, anxious kids.
Questions parents ask
What is the grid drawing method?
A technique where a picture is divided into squares and copied one square at a time onto a matching blank grid.
What are the benefits of grid drawing for kids?
It builds observation, proportion, patience, pencil control and confidence.
What age can kids start grid drawing?
Many children can start around age 7. Younger kids can try with bigger squares and help.
More in ways to learn to draw, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
- Is Tracing Good for Kids? Yes, and Here's WhyIs tracing good for kids? Yes. Tracing builds pencil control, confidence and pre-writing skills, and it's a natural first step toward drawing.
- Is It OK for Kids to Copy Drawings?Is it OK for kids to copy drawings? Yes, copying is how most artists learn. Here's why it helps, and how to move from copying to creating.
- Everything Is Shapes: The Easiest Way to Teach DrawingEverything is made of shapes. Teaching kids to see circles, squares and triangles inside objects is the easiest way to teach drawing.
- How Drawing Builds Spatial Reasoning in ChildrenSpatial reasoning is a key skill for math and science. Learn how drawing, especially grid drawing, helps kids understand size, position and shape.
