1Step 1 of 7
Draw the head
In the upper part of your page, draw a big round head shaped like an upside down bowl. Make the bottom a little flat. Press lightly so you can fix it later.
▶ Watch this stepHow to Draw a Cartoon Octopus
This cartoon octopus is a big round head with a happy face and six wiggly tentacles. Watch each step being drawn in pencil, then copy it on your own paper. It works for kids from about age 5 and for adult beginners too.
7 easy steps 20 minutes Easy level Ages 5 and up
Copy the dark lines in each step. The grey lines are the parts you already drew.
How to draw a cartoon octopus, step by step
2Step 2 of 7
Draw the face
In the lower half of the head, draw two big round eyes. Color them dark and leave a white dot for the shine. Add a pink oval on each cheek and a happy smile between them.
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3Step 3 of 7
Add the outer tentacles
Under the head, draw four long wiggly tentacles. Two go out and down to the left and two go out and down to the right. Make each one thick at the top and thin at the tip.
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4Step 4 of 7
Add the middle tentacles
Between the outer tentacles, draw two more wiggly tentacles that go straight down.
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5Step 5 of 7
Draw the spots
On the top of the head, draw a few round spots. Make some big and some small.
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6Step 6 of 7
Add the suckers and bubbles
Along each tentacle, draw two small circles for the suckers. Beside the head, draw a few round bubbles floating up.
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7Step 7 of 7
Color your octopus
Color the head and tentacles purple and the spots dark purple. Color the cheeks and suckers pink and the bubbles light blue. Keep the eyes dark.
▶ Watch this stepTips for a better cartoon octopus
1
Draw light first
Keep your first lines soft, then press harder once you like the shape.
2
Wiggle the tentacles
Give each tentacle a gentle S shape so the octopus looks like it is moving.
3
Thick to thin
Start each tentacle wide at the head and make it thinner as it goes down.
4
Do not cross
Try to keep the tentacles from crossing over each other so the drawing stays clear.
5
Go over the final lines
Trace your drawing with a darker pencil or a black pen so it stands out after coloring.
6
Pick a new color
Octopuses can change color. Try orange, red or pink for a different look.
Done? Now make it colourful
Colour your cartoon octopus in, or keep practising with more ideas to copy.
Questions people ask
Is this cartoon octopus easy enough for young kids?
Yes. The tentacles take a little care, but most children from about age 5 can follow it.
How do I draw octopus tentacles?
Draw long wiggly shapes that are thick near the head and thin at the tip. Add small circles along them for suckers.
What colors do I need for a cartoon octopus?
Purple, dark purple, pink and light blue.
Can I draw eight tentacles?
Yes. Add one more on each side, tucked behind the others.
Can I print the steps?
Yes. Right click or long press any step picture to save it, then print it and keep it next to you while you draw.
