Drawing a star starts with a circle to keep the points even. This method avoids the common problem of lopsided arms. You will end up with a symmetrical five-pointed star.

The secret to five even points

A standard five-pointed star is based on a pentagon. Each point is an isosceles triangle with the same angle.

What you need

  • HB pencil for the construction lines
  • Black chisel-tip marker for the outlines
  • Fine black marker for the details
  • Eraser
  • White cardstock or thick paper

The 6 steps

Light comes from the upper left in every step. Each picture shows the drawing as it should look when that step is done.

Step 1: Circle and center line

Step 1: Circle and center line

Use an HB pencil to draw a light circle and a straight vertical line through the middle.

Common mistake: Do not press hard with the pencil or the lines will be difficult to erase later.

Step 2: Five guide dots

Step 2: Five guide dots

Mark five dots on the circle edge using the HB pencil to plan where the points will go.

Common mistake: Beginners often place the bottom dots too close together, which makes the star look like it is standing on one leg.

Step 3: Connect the dots

Step 3: Connect the dots

Draw straight lines with the HB pencil to connect the dots in a star shape, crossing through the middle.

Common mistake: Drawing curved lines instead of straight ones will make the star look like a flower.

Step 4: Bold outer outline

Step 4: Bold outer outline

Switch to the chisel-tip marker and trace only the outer perimeter of the star shape.

Common mistake: Tracing the lines inside the star will break the solid shape, so stay on the outside edges.

Step 5: Face details

Step 5: Face details

Use the fine marker to draw two small eyes and a simple smile inside the star.

Common mistake: Making the eyes too large can leave no room for the mouth.

Step 6: Final clean up

Step 6: Final clean up

Erase all pencil lines and use the fine marker to add two short sparkle lines near the top point.

Common mistake: Forgetting to wait for the marker ink to dry before erasing will cause the drawing to smudge.

What makes it look right

  • Keep the pencil lines very light so they disappear completely when erased.
  • Use a ruler if you find it hard to draw straight lines between the dots.
  • Rotate the paper as you draw each side to keep your hand comfortable.
a Star coloring page

Get the finished coloring page

The clean outline from step 6, ready to print and colour.

View the coloring page

The whole lesson on one sheet

All 6 steps with their captions on one page. Print it and keep it next to your paper.

How to draw a Star: the 6-step lesson sheet

The star is now ready for bright yellow or gold colors. Try drawing a smaller star next to it using the same steps.