How to Draw Graffiti Arrows That Add Flow
Quick answer: Attach arrows to the ends of strokes, such as the leg of an R or the arm of a K, and curve them in the same direction the letter already moves. Keep arrowheads sharp and similar in size, and use only a few so the word stays readable.
Arrows are the punctuation of graffiti. They show movement and lead the eye across a piece. Placed well, they make letters feel fast. Placed everywhere, they turn a piece into noise.
Where arrows belong
- The ends of strokes: legs, arms, tails and crossbars.
- The first and last letter, to frame the word.
- Gaps between letters, where an arrow can bridge two shapes.
Drawing a clean arrow
- Extend the stroke in the direction it is already going.
- Curve it gently. Arrows that bend look more alive than straight ones.
- Taper the shaft slightly as it nears the head.
- Add a sharp triangular head, wider than the shaft.
- Outline it together with the letter so it looks like one shape.
Arrowhead styles
Classic triangles are the safest. Split heads (two points) and hooked heads add flavor. Pick one style and use it across the whole piece.
How many is too many?
A simple rule: one or two arrows per word for beginners, more as your letters get stronger. If you cannot read the word anymore, remove arrows first.
The wildstyle graffiti generator shows how arrows and extensions can change a word. For context on that style, read what is wildstyle graffiti.