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How Do You Draw Bubble Numbers?

Published in Drawing Technique 3 mins read

Drawing bubble numbers involves creating a rounded, puffy outline around the standard shape of a digit, making it appear inflated or bubbly.

The Basic Method for Drawing Bubble Digits

The core technique for drawing bubble numbers is to essentially draw a second, larger, rounded shape around the initial digit. This creates the illusion of thickness and volume. As demonstrated in the process described, you work around both the external and internal lines of the number.

Steps to Draw Bubble Numbers:

  1. Imagine the Digit Shape: Start by visualizing or lightly sketching the standard form of the number you want to draw (e.g., a '3', '8', or '0').
  2. Draw the Outer Bubble Line: Draw a smooth, curved line around the outside edge of your digit. Make this line parallel to the original shape but slightly offset, giving it a rounded appearance.
  3. Draw the Inner Bubble Line: For digits with enclosed spaces (like 0, 4, 6, 8, 9), draw a similar smooth, curved line around the inside edge of these spaces. This line should also be parallel to the inner contour.
  4. Connect and Refine: Connect the outer and inner lines smoothly to form a continuous outline. The goal is to create a shape that looks inflated and rounded, "just kind of going around and making some bubbles." This process involves "getting both sides of the digits" covered by the bubble outline.
  5. Manage Complexities: If your lines intersect or if you are navigating tight corners, a useful technique is to "stop it and then reconnect." This allows you to manage the curves more easily and ensure smooth transitions. For instance, if drawing a curved line touches another part of the bubble outline, lift your pen, move to the point where you need to continue, and reconnect the line.
  6. Clean Up: Once the bubble outline is complete, you can erase any initial sketch lines inside the bubble shape.

Tips for Smooth Bubble Numbers

  • Use gentle, flowing curves rather than sharp angles.
  • Practice makes perfect! Try drawing different numbers to get a feel for the curves.
  • Experiment with the thickness of the bubble outline to change the style.

Bubble numbers are popular in casual art, lettering, and design due to their friendly and playful appearance.

Regular vs. Bubble Numbers

Here's a simple comparison of how the concept differs:

Feature Regular Number Bubble Number
Shape Defined, often angular Rounded, puffy, inflated
Outline Single line Double line forming a thick edge
Feel Standard, formal (can vary) Playful, casual, dimensional

By following these steps and focusing on smooth, rounded lines that encompass "both sides of the digits," you can effectively draw bubble numbers. Remember the technique of stopping and reconnecting if necessary to achieve clean lines.

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