Family Tree Drawing: Step-by-Step Tutorial & Easy Ideas
Want to draw a family tree that actually looks right? Start with one clear outline divided into labeled regions and build from there. This page covers the full process — nine steps from first line to finished drawing — followed by family tree drawing ideas in every style: easy, cute, realistic, and a few you probably haven't tried.
- Difficulty Medium
- Time ~15 min
- Tools Pencil, eraser, paper
- Starts with one clear outline divided into labeled regions
How to Draw a Family Tree Step by Step
Step 1 of 9
Trunk and crown guides
Draw a narrow light rectangle at the bottom middle of the page for the trunk, then a wide oval above it marking where the branches will spread.
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Trunk and crown guides
Draw a narrow light rectangle at the bottom middle of the page for the trunk, then a wide oval above it marking where the branches will spread.
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Trunk outline
Trace the trunk into a shape slightly wider at the bottom, tapering as it rises toward the branch area.
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Main branches
From the top of the trunk, draw two thick branches forking up and out to the left and right.
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Smaller branches
From each main branch end, draw two thinner branches forking further upward and outward.
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Base photo frame
Draw one round photo frame on the trunk near the bottom for the oldest generation.
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Middle photo frames
Draw a round photo frame at the end of each main branch for the middle generation.
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Small frames and bark
Draw a smaller round photo frame at the end of each small branch, then add a few short bark lines down the trunk.
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Ink the lines
Go over every kept line with dark ink, then erase the light trunk and crown guides.
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Color the tree
Fill the trunk and branches brown and the seven photo frames cream white.
Family Tree Drawing Ideas to Try Next
Once the basic family tree clicks, run it through these variations — each one practices a different skill while staying on a subject you already know.
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A step-by-step process strip
Show the family tree in stages across three or four panels, with arrows — perfect for processes and cycles.
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A poster-style family tree with title lettering
Big title, the family tree center-stage, two or three fact callouts — the class-project format.
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Family Tree as a friendly cartoon
Give it eyes and a smile — the memorable-mnemonic style that makes studying stick.
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A labeled diagram of the family tree
The classic homework version: clean outline, distinct regions, straight pointer lines to printed labels.
Tips for Better Family Tree Drawings
- Label lines should never cross each other — plan label positions around the drawing before writing any text.
- Accuracy first: check a textbook diagram before you stylize. A beautiful but wrong diagram loses marks and teaches nothing.
Not feeling the family tree today?
Let the generator pick your next subject — filtered by mood and difficulty.
🎲 Random Drawing GeneratorFamily Tree Drawing FAQ
How do you draw a family tree easily?
Start with one clear outline divided into labeled regions, keeping your lines light. Refine the outline, add the defining details, then erase the construction shapes. The nine-step method above breaks this down — most people get a recognizable family tree on their very first try with it.
How long does a family tree drawing take?
A simple family tree drawing takes about 15 minutes following this tutorial. A quick doodle version can be done in two or three minutes, while a detailed, fully-shaded study might take an hour. Speed comes with repetition — the second attempt is always faster than the first.
What do I need to draw a family tree?
Just a pencil, an eraser, and any paper. An HB pencil for construction lines and a 2B for final outlines is a nice upgrade, and colored pencils or markers finish it off — but nothing on this page requires special supplies.
Can kids draw a family tree?
Yes — the family tree is very manageable once you use construction shapes, and this method was written for first-timers. Kids can follow the same steps; just expect wobblier lines and more charm.
