Draw an oval or curved line for the mouth opening
Sketch the upper lip line as a shallow “M” or a gentle curve
Add the lower lip as a thicker, rounded curve beneath the upper lip
Indicate the corners of the mouth with small angled marks
Place a center mark to help keep the mouth symmetrical
Add the cupid’s bow (the peak in the middle of the upper lip)
Define the philtrum area above the upper lip with a light guideline
Lightly sketch the inner mouth line where the lips meet (upper-lower contact)
Block in lip thickness with simple shapes before adding details
Add a subtle line or shadow under the lower lip to show volume
Include the mouth creases at the corners if the expression calls for it
Adjust lip proportions for the face angle (wider/closer side, narrower/farther side)
For a smile, raise the corners and curve the upper lip upward
For a frown, lower the corners and deepen the crease lines
For a neutral mouth, keep curves mild and corners relaxed
For speaking, open the mouth with an oval and draw the teeth line lightly
For an open mouth, add the inner lip/tongue mass using simplified shapes
Use light shading to separate lips from surrounding skin
Shade under the upper lip and along the lower lip edge for depth
Blend shading softly at the lip transitions to avoid harsh edges
Keep highlights on the lip curvature where light would hit
Erase and refine construction lines once the final mouth shape is set
Practice drawing mouths in multiple expressions and angles (front, 3/4, profile)