How to Create Your Own Anime Character

The art of creating anime characters, which originated in Japan, is distinguished from other cartoons by the child-like faces and the emphasis on the eyes. Use of sharp lines in drawing is a prominent feature of anime or Manga art.

Anime
The word 'anime' is an abbreviation of animation. Anime originated in the year 1917, and is not only popular in Japan, but the world over. It can be created both with the help of hands (i.e. drawing) and computers. Anime characters have their origin in the art of Manga. Manga art is used to create graphic designs, characters and story lines for comics, cartoons, etc. The topics or themes that are covered under Manga include historical drama, sports & games, comedy, adventure, mystery, fantasy, etc.

Make Your Own Anime Character
Creating your own anime character is a fun experiment with colors, sketches and designs. In order to make a character, one should also create a storyline. A story helps fit in the character properly in the sequence of events. There is a lot of scope in designing and enhancing the appearance of the character. One can add features to the character by giving him different powers such as a sword and other weapons. It is a common practice to make anime characters by drawing them; however, computers can also be used create them.

How to Draw Anime Characters
Drawing an anime character is the most challenging and interesting part of anime creation. While drawing the basic structure, one should first focus on the anatomy of the character.

In order to draw the face, a circle should be used as a guide. It helps in giving the face a proper and symmetrical shape. One can avoid asymmetrical lines by using the circle as a guide. To draw the front view of the face, one should divide the face in four quarters by drawing lines across the face. Drawing anime step by step would help create a sketch that is proportionate and easy to make. After dividing the circular face into 4 quarters, the 2 quarters at the bottom should be extended or elongated to create the jaw. The elongation should be a bit pointed to draw the chin. The horizontal line that cuts across the face should be used as a 'guide line' to draw the eyes. Once the eyes are drawn, it is relatively easy to create the rest of the face.

The proportions of the human body are the guidelines used to sketch these characters. The head is considered to be the unit while deciding on the proportion. Sketching the hands requires a lot of practice. The hands need to be slender and strong in their appearance. One can use his creativity in drawing the hair. Anime characters are generally varied in their hairstyles. 3D animation can also be used to enhance the look of your character.

Once the character, along with a storyline is created, you should think about posting it on the Internet. It helps you get reviews and feedback on your work by experts. Tips and suggestions given by them would add more depth to the work. Thus, to make your own anime character is fun and helps exercise the inherent skills of drawing and presentation.