How to Draw Pictures on an Etch A Sketch

Master isolated techniques for creating detailed artistic imagery on the Etch A Sketch®. Start by learning how to create, then master, basic curves and angles by coordinating the movement of both knobs at the same time. Try to create a perfect circle. Figure out other artistic effects, such as how to create different shading effects by filling in spaces with lines placed next to each other in different concentrations (with darker areas having more lines overall).

Practice drawing freehand on paper in a manner that imitates the way drawings must be done on an Etch A Sketch®. While freehand drawing generally allows you to pick up the pencil and outline the entire picture, then fill in the details, an Etch A Sketch® drawing requires that you start in one portion of the page, fill it in with all the detail, then move to another section. Practice drawing this way on paper, then move into creating drawings done in a single, connected pencil line.

Plan a drawing that will work on an Etch A Sketch®. Make sure this image has no disconnected sections and that every line is connected to every other line on at least one side (although lines can be disconnected at one end if you're good at retracing your steps).

Figure out how best to execute your drawing in one line. Make a pencil sketch of the drawing and try to figure out where in the image would be the best spot to start.

Move the Etch A Sketch's® cursor to the position you want it to be in before you start to draw. Erase the Etch A Sketch's® current lines.

Draw the image. Go slowly and carefully. You may need to try several times before you're successful.