How to Draw 3D Graffiti Letters (Easy Method)
Quick answer: Pick one direction for the 3D, for example down and to the right. From every corner and curve of each letter, draw a short line in that direction, all the same length. Connect the ends, erase hidden lines and fill the new sides with a darker color.
3D is the fastest way to make flat letters look finished. It looks complicated, but it is one repeated move done with discipline.
Step by step
- Draw your letters flat and finish the outline first.
- Choose a direction for the depth. Down-right is the most common.
- From every outside corner, draw a short line in that direction. Keep every line the same length and angle.
- For curves, draw lines from the widest points of the curve.
- Connect the ends of the lines so they follow the shape of the letter.
- Erase any line that would be hidden behind the letter face.
- Fill the 3D sides with a darker color than the face.
Keep it consistent
The biggest giveaway of rushed 3D is lines that change angle from letter to letter. Use a ruler for the first few tries, or lightly draw a guide arrow in the corner of the page.
Block 3D vs drop shadow
Block 3D connects the face to its shadow, so letters look solid. A drop shadow is just an offset copy with a gap. Drop shadows are faster; block 3D looks heavier and works best on bold letters.
Check your idea digitally
The 3D text generator lets you change depth and angle and see the effect instantly, which is a handy reference before you draw. For the letter shapes underneath, see how to draw graffiti letters.