Draw a circle for the head
Add a vertical center line and a horizontal eye line
Sketch the jaw and chin beneath the circle
Draw the neck and shoulders
Outline the torso with simple armor shapes
Add the samurai helmet with a wide crest
Draw the face guard or mask if desired
Place the eyes along the eye line
Add eyebrows, nose, and mouth
Sketch the hair or topknot
Draw the chest armor plates
Add shoulder guards on both sides
Sketch the arms in a strong pose
Draw the hands holding a sword or resting at the sides
Add the katana handle and guard
Draw the sword blade
Sketch the waist armor and belt
Add the lower body and leg shapes
Draw the shin guards and boots
Refine all armor edges and details
Add patterns, straps, and folds
Erase construction lines
Ink the final outlines
Shade the armor, clothing, and sword
Add final highlights and contrast