Grumpy Faces drawing books: step by step or grid?

Two books, one cast of Grumpy Faces characters by cartoonist Kevin Coulston. Best for kids who find grumpy funnier than happy.

Ages 5+
By Kevin Coulston
2 books

Step by step · a great first book

How to Draw: Grumpy Faces

Grumpy Faces shows how a few exaggerated features can give a cartoon a wonderfully cranky personality. Kids build the expressions in stages rather than copying a finished face all at once.

This step-by-step face drawing book suits children who like expressive characters and humorous art. Once they complete a lesson, changing an eyebrow or mouth can turn the same head into a very different personality.

See it on Amazon More about this book on FirstArtBooks.com

Grid · for careful, puzzle-loving kids

Draw by Grid: Grumpy Faces

Grumpy Faces turns 50 comically cranky expressions into grid drawing projects. The method helps children observe how a brow, eye, or mouth is placed to create the mood.

This book suits ages 5 and up who enjoy funny faces and a careful drawing process. Once the character is copied, an artist can alter one feature to see how quickly grumpy becomes surprised or silly.

See it on Amazon More about this book on FirstArtBooks.com

Which one should you get?

Same characters, different kinds of practice. Pick step by step for a first drawing book. Pick grid for a kid who likes puzzles, or who already has the step-by-step book.

	Step by step (How to Draw)	Grid (Draw by Grid)
What your kid does	Adds one new line or shape at a time, in six steps, then draws the whole character again.	Copies the picture one lettered square at a time onto a matching blank grid.
Feels like	Learning how a cartoonist builds a character.	A calm drawing puzzle.
Best for	A first drawing book, ages 5 and up.	Careful, patient kids and anyone who likes accuracy.
Builds	Seeing shapes inside characters, following directions, confidence.	Observation, proportion and pencil control.

Getting both? Many families start with the step-by-step book, then add the grid book when their kid wants a calmer challenge with the same characters.