How to Create Anime Characters from Scratch

Anime isn’t just a style—it’s a storytelling language filled with emotion, action, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re inspired by classic shonen heroes or dreamy shojo aesthetics, creating your own anime character is an exciting and creative process.

Step 1: Decide Your Character’s Story

Every great anime character has a compelling background. Is your character a mysterious warrior, a magical schoolgirl, or a futuristic rebel? Define their:

Personality (brave, shy, mischievous, etc.)
Role in the story (hero, rival, sidekick)
Setting (school, fantasy world, cityscape)

Step 2: Sketch the Basic Structure

Start with basic shapes: a circle for the head, lines for posture, and simple forms for the body. Anime proportions often exaggerate features—large eyes, small mouths, and stylized hair.

Quick Tip:

Use guidelines for eye placement. Typically, anime eyes are lower on the face than in realistic drawings.

Step 3: Design the Eyes and Facial Features

Eyes: The emotional core. Big, expressive eyes can show innocence, determination, or mystery.
Nose and Mouth: Keep them minimal and stylized—just enough to give personality.
Eyebrows: Don’t underestimate their role in conveying emotion!

Step 4: Create a Unique Hairstyle

Hair in anime is often gravity-defying and dramatic. Choose a style that suits the character’s personality. Spiky? Flowing? Short and sassy? Be bold!

Step 5: Outfit and Accessories

Anime clothing can range from school uniforms to fantasy armor. Think about function, flair, and story relevance. Add accessories like headbands, swords, backpacks, or magical items.

Step 6: Add Color and Style

Use digital tools or traditional media to bring your character to life. Pick a consistent color scheme. Don’t forget to add highlights to the hair and sparkle to the eyes!

Bonus: Turn Your Character Into a Story

Once you’ve designed them visually, write a short story or comic about their adventures. This can help you deepen their character and maybe even launch your own manga project!

Show Off Your Anime Art

Got a character you’re proud of? Feature your work on our Global Art Forms page and join the wave of visual storytelling.

To be listed among emerging anime-style artists, send in your portfolio via our submission form.

Need sketchbooks, markers, or drawing tablets? Find the perfect tools in our Artful Living section!

Published by Henry Aziengbe

Henry Aziengbe (Godson) is a Sculptor, Painter, Art Advocate, and Creative Strategist based in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. With a deep passion for visual storytelling, Henry believes that art is not just a form of expression but a catalyst for transformation—connecting people, preserving cultural identity, and elevating creative voices. As the visionary founder of Worldwide Art Advocacy, Henry is committed to empowering artists, providing mentorship, strategic guidance, and visibility to creators looking to build meaningful careers in the arts. He helps artists refine their craft, establish their presence, and navigate the evolving art industry—ensuring that their work not only exists but thrives. Beyond his personal work in sculpting and painting, Henry is a passionate Art Educator, inspiring others through creative workshops, advocacy, and community-driven projects. His mission is to bridge diverse artistic traditions, foster innovation, and amplify the voices of emerging and established artists worldwide. For Henry, art is more than technique—it is memory, movement, and possibility. Through his sculptures, murals, and advocacy, he seeks to create spaces where artists are seen, heard, and celebrated. View more posts