Practicing drawing from real-life models trains the eye to see forms as 3-dimensional objects.

In an ideal world, we would practice drawing from still-life objects and live models.

You and I both know, this isn't always realistic. Unless your friends or family are willing to pose for hours while you practice drawing, you're out of luck.

To compensate, we can use photo references.

I can't tell you how much time I've spent searching online for the perfect reference photos to help complete illustrations.

The disadvantage of using photo references is that photos are 2-dimensional. Referencing photos trains the eye to see shapes as flat objects, which might transfer into your drawings.

So here's my story: I spent years drawing from photo references. I got to a point where my fashion illustrations looked pretty flat. I needed more magic to improve.

I needed to practice drawing from real, 3-dimensional objects.

Sure, I could have paid to attend a live drawing class, but these didn't exist in my area. Plus, I'm a total homebody/ house gremlin. I had to come up with alternatives...

This post breaks down methods of drawing from 3D models from the comfort of my home.

I'll explain how I was able to improve my drawing skills from anatomical models, action figures, wooden blocks, and lastly, a genius method to access hundreds of 3D models without spending a dime or leaving your house (so make sure you read to the end!)

(There are no affiliate links in this article.)

1. Anatomical models

I noticed that my fashion figures looked undefined and a bit like Gumby (I wasn't confident about muscle placement.) The time had come to learn about figure anatomy.

I started with anatomy books from the library. From these books, I was able to view muscle anatomy in isolated views but needed a better reference to grasp how muscles wrapped around the body.

As a result, I started to search for anatomical models instead.

I ended up buying these anatomical models from Aliexpress (I don't use the male one, but it's a nice decoration.) These models are about 11” tall and come with a helpful muscle identification chart.

I reference these models often while drawing the figure from side, back, and partial angles.

2. Action figure models

I think these models are made specifically for comic book artists, but you can use them to practice drawing the figure from different angles and perspectives.

They come with interchangeable hands and feet, making it easy to change the pose.

These models are pretty tiny (see the pencil for reference) and can fit in your pocket.

3. Wooden blocks

One of the #1 rules of drawing is to break down complicated shapes into simplified geometric objects. These wooden blocks are awesome to practice shading, draw objects in perspective, and create interesting compositions. The blocks come in a cute little pouch, making them easy to transport.

Virtual 3D models

Ok, so this is a game-changer.

With technology evolving, and artists becoming more awesome, anyone can now access millions of virtual 3D models online.

On websites like sketchfab.com, you can search for a 3D model of pretty much anything. Faces, full body poses, shoes, bags, etc....It's all there.

It's like searching for a reference photo, but with a 3D model, you can move and turn the object to see it from all sides and angles (click here for navigation instructions.)

Here's an example by user “IDALGAME”:

leather bag by IDALGAME on Sketchfab

Try it for yourself. You can search for things like "high-heeled boot," "female face," "converse sneaker," etc.

I referenced virtual 3D models while creating the Croquis Kit to draw 500+ sketches of fashion figures, hands, feet, hairstyles, shoes, bags, etc.

Have you had success drawing from a 3D model not included in this article? Please share in the comments below.