Drawing a cute fish is a fun and relaxing activity, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist. Fish are not only fascinating creatures but also make great subjects for creative drawing projects. In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know about drawing an adorable fish, from sketching basic shapes Cute Fish drawing to adding final details. Grab your pencils, and let’s dive in!
Why Draw a Cute Fish?
Before we get started, let’s talk about why drawing a cute fish can be so enjoyable:
- Easy and Fun – Fish drawings are simple yet adorable, making them great for beginners.
- Great for Practice – You can experiment with different shapes, expressions, and styles.
- Versatile – A cute fish can be used in greeting cards, doodles, paintings, or even digital illustrations.
- Relaxing – The smooth curves and flowing lines of a fish can make for a soothing drawing experience.
Now that we’re ready, let’s start with the basics!
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin drawing, make sure you have the right materials:
- Sketchbook or Drawing Paper – Any paper will work, but smooth-textured paper is ideal.
- Pencil (HB or 2B) – A simple pencil is perfect for sketching outlines.
- Eraser – Useful for correcting mistakes and refining your sketch.
- Fine Liner or Black Pen – If you want to outline your drawing.
- Colored Pencils, Markers, or Watercolors – For adding vibrant colors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing a Cute Fish
Step 1: Draw the Basic Shape
Start by sketching a basic shape for the fish’s body. The most common shapes for a cute fish include:
- Oval or Circle – For a round, cartoonish look.
- Teardrop or Bean Shape – Ideal for a more natural, flowing body shape.
- Triangle or Diamond Shape – Works well for angular, stylized fish.
Use light pencil strokes so you can easily adjust your drawing as you go.
Step 2: Add the Fish’s Face
A cute fish needs an expressive face! Here’s how to bring your fish to life:
- Big, Round Eyes – Large, shiny eyes add to the cuteness factor.
- Smiling Mouth – A small curved line makes the fish look happy.
- Blush Marks or Tiny Cheeks – Add tiny circles near the eyes for extra cuteness.
Step 3: Sketch the Fins and Tail
The fins and tail are essential features that give your fish movement and personality. Here’s how to draw them:
- Dorsal Fin (Top Fin) – A small curved or triangular fin on top.
- Pectoral Fins (Side Fins) – Draw rounded or wavy fins on each side.
- Tail Fin (Caudal Fin) – The tail can be fan-shaped, heart-shaped, or flowy like a betta fish.
Play around with different fin shapes to see what looks best!

Step 4: Add Cute Details
To make your fish extra adorable, try adding:
- Bubbles – Small circles above the fish to suggest movement.
- Scales – Light, curved lines or small dots to create texture.
- Extra Fins or Accessories – Tiny details like a bow, crown, or a tiny hat can make your fish unique.
Step 5: Outline Your Drawing
Once you’re happy with your sketch, go over it with a fine liner or black pen to make the lines bold and clean. Let the ink dry before erasing the pencil marks underneath.
Step 6: Color Your Cute Fish
Now, it’s time to add color! Here are some fun ideas:
- Bright Colors (Yellow, Orange, Blue, Pink, Purple) – Great for a happy, cartoon-style fish.
- Gradient Effects – Blend two colors for a more artistic look.
- Patterned Scales – Try adding stripes, dots, or a rainbow pattern.
Use colored pencils, markers, or even watercolors to bring your fish to life.
Different Styles of Cute Fish Drawings
1. Cartoon Fish
Cartoon fish are exaggerated and playful, often with oversized eyes and silly expressions. To draw a cartoon fish:
- Use big round eyes with white highlights.
- Keep the body small and chubby.
- Add a funny expression, like a winking eye or a tiny tongue sticking out.
2. Kawaii Fish
Kawaii (cute in Japanese) style is simple and charming. Features include:
- Round, soft shapes.
- Tiny, smiling mouth.
- Pastel or soft colors.
3. Realistic Cute Fish
For a slightly more detailed fish that still looks cute:
- Add real fish features like realistic scales and gills.
- Use shading techniques to create depth.
- Keep the eyes big but not too exaggerated.
Fun Ideas for Your Cute Fish Drawing
Once you’ve mastered drawing a cute fish, you can use it in many creative ways:
- Greeting Cards – Draw a fish saying “You’re Fin-tastic!”
- Wall Art – Create a series of fish with different expressions.
- Sticker Designs – Turn your fish into fun stickers.
- Storybook Illustrations – Use your fish character in a short comic or story.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
1. Making the Fish Look Stiff
If your fish looks unnatural, try curving its body slightly as if it’s swimming.
2. Overcomplicating the Design
A cute fish is simple! Don’t add too many unnecessary details.
3. Uneven Eyes
If one eye is bigger than the other, lightly sketch both before darkening them.
4. Messy Lines
If your lines are shaky, try using smoother, confident strokes, or refine them digitally.
Conclusion
Drawing a cute fish is an enjoyable and rewarding activity that anyone can do. By following these simple steps, experimenting with different styles, and adding your personal touches, you can create a fish drawing that is uniquely yours. Whether you keep it as a doodle, use it for a project, or even turn it into a digital masterpiece, your cute fish will surely bring smiles to those who see it.
So grab your pencils and start drawing—your adorable fish is waiting to swim onto the page!