Painting cartoon characters is a fun and rewarding way to dive into art, especially for beginners! Their bold lines, vibrant colors, and iconic designs make them ideal subjects for practicing basic techniques. Below, we’ve rounded up 17 easy-to-paint cartoon characters—from timeless classics to modern favorites—with tips to help you bring them to life on canvas. Let’s grab those brushes!
1. Bart Simpson (The Simpsons)
Bart’s spiky hair, oversized T-shirt, and mischievous grin are instantly recognizable. Start with a basic outline of his head shape, then add his jagged hairstyle. Use bright yellow for his skin and primary colors for his clothes. Pro tip: Exaggerate his smirk for that classic troublemaker vibe!
2. Tweety Bird (Looney Tunes)
This tiny yellow canary is all about simplicity. Paint a round body, oversized blue eyes, and a few feather details. A soft orange beak and tiny feet complete Tweety’s adorable look. Add a speech bubble with “I tawt I taw a puddy tat!” for extra charm.
3. Homer Simpson (The Simpsons)
Homer’s round head, bald spot, and doughnut obsession make him a joy to paint. Focus on his oval-shaped eyes, stubble, and iconic white shirt with blue pants. Use a light peach tone for his skin and don’t forget his trademark “D’oh!” expression.
4. Mario (Super Mario)
The mustached plumber is a pixel-art legend! Paint his red cap with a bold “M,” blue overalls, and white gloves. His round nose and bushy mustache are key—keep the colors flat and vibrant for a retro feel.
5. Yoshi (Super Mario)
Yoshi’s dinosaur-like shape is beginner-friendly. Start with a green oval body, a rounded snout, and a red saddle. Add his signature white boots and egg for a playful touch. Pro tip: Use shades of green to add depth to his skin.
If you’re enjoying this you may also like my easy cartoon characters to draw post.
6. Donald Duck (Disney)
Donald’s sailor suit and expressive beak are fun to recreate. Paint his blue cap, ribbon, and oversized orange feet. Use white for his chest and tail feathers, and don’t shy away from his grumpy eyebrows!
7. Pac-Man
The ultimate minimalist character! Paint a yellow circle with a wedge-shaped “mouth.” Add small dots around him for that classic arcade vibe. Use a black background to make the colors pop.
8. Baby Groot (Guardians of the Galaxy)
This tiny tree guardian is all about texture. Start with a brown trunk-like body, add twiggy arms, and paint his large, innocent eyes. A small flower pot or “I am Groot” text adds context.
9. Stitch (Lilo & Stitch)
Stitch’s blue fur, big ears, and sharp teeth are quirky yet simple. Outline his oval head, pointy ears, and clawed paws. Use dark blue for his markings and pink for his inner ears.
10. Mickey Mouse (Disney)
The king of cartoons! Paint his classic round head, large oval ears, red shorts, and yellow shoes. A white glove on each hand and a cheerful smile complete this timeless character.
11. Tinker Bell (Peter Pan)
Capture her magic with a green dress, golden hair, and translucent wings. Add glittery accents to her wand and a trail of pixie dust for sparkle. Keep her petite and graceful.
12. Pikachu (Pokémon)
This electric mouse is all about bold shapes. Paint a yellow oval body, red cheek circles, and lightning-shaped tail. Use black outlines to define his ears and expressive eyes.
13. Tom
Paint the iconic cat! Focus on Tom’s lanky gray body. Add exaggerated expressions—wide eyes for Jerry, a frustrated frown for Tom.
14. Bugs Bunny (Looney Tunes)
Bugs’ smug smile and carrot-munching pose are classic. Paint his gray fur, long ears, and white gloves. A carrot in hand and a “What’s up, Doc?” speech bubble add personality.
15. Elsa (Frozen)
Elsa’s flowing ice-blue dress and braided hair are elegant but approachable. Use silver and blue shades for her gown, and add snowflake details. Highlight her confident posture and icy magic effects.
16. SpongeBob SquarePants
Embrace his square shape! Paint a bright yellow sponge with rectangular holes, white shirt, and red tie. Add goofy eyes and a wide smile. Bonus: Include Patrick Star for a Bikini Bottom duo.
17. Po (Kung Fu Panda)
Po’s round belly and black-and-white panda markings are fun to block in. Use simple shapes for his face, and don’t forget his iconic warrior headband. Add a dumpling or nunchucks for flair!
Tips for Success
- Start with sketches: Lightly outline shapes before painting.
- Use bold colors: Cartoons rely on vibrant hues—don’t be afraid to go bright!
- Practice expressions: A character’s personality shines through their face.
- Have fun!: Imperfections add charm.
Whether you’re using acrylics, watercolors, or digital tools, these characters are perfect for honing your skills. Tag us in your creations—we’d love to see your masterpieces! 🎨✨