Draw a small oval or circle in the center
Sketch a teardrop-shaped petal above the center
Add two larger petals on each side of the center
Draw more petals behind the front petals
Extend additional pointed petals outward in a layered pattern
Make the outer petals slightly wider and taller
Add a few curved lines inside each petal
Draw the base of the flower with small overlapping shapes
Add a short stem below the base
Draw a few lotus leaves around the stem if desired
Outline the final shape with clean, smooth lines
Erase extra sketch lines
Add shading or color to finish the lotus