14 Fun Things To Draw When Bored: Creative Ideas

Feeling bored and looking for something fun and creative to do? Drawing can be a fantastic way to unleash your imagination and pass the time. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting out, there are tons of things you can draw. This article is your ultimate guide to things to draw when bored, packed with 14 exciting ideas to spark your creativity. So, grab your pencils, pens, or digital drawing tools, and let's dive into a world of artistic possibilities! We'll explore a variety of themes and styles, ensuring there's something for everyone, regardless of their skill level or artistic preferences. Forget about staring blankly at a screen – let's transform that boredom into beautiful artwork! From simple doodles to more intricate designs, the options are endless. We’ll also touch upon the benefits of drawing, not just as a pastime, but as a way to improve your focus, reduce stress, and boost your overall well-being. So, are you ready to embark on this creative adventure? Let's get those artistic juices flowing and discover the joy of drawing. We promise, by the end of this article, you'll have a plethora of ideas to keep you entertained and artistically engaged whenever boredom strikes. Remember, there are no rules in art – it's all about expressing yourself and having fun. So, don't be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn along the way. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and let your creativity shine. Now, let’s jump into our list of things to draw when bored and unlock your inner artist!

1. Your Favorite Cartoon Character

One of the most fun things to draw when bored is your favorite cartoon character. Think about the characters you grew up with, the ones that made you laugh, or the heroes you admired. Whether it’s Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, or a character from a more modern animated series, drawing them can be a nostalgic and enjoyable experience. This exercise not only helps you practice your drawing skills but also allows you to revisit those cherished childhood memories. Consider the character's unique features and try to capture their personality in your drawing. Are they known for their mischievous grin, their signature pose, or their iconic outfit? Pay attention to these details to make your drawing instantly recognizable. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the character too. Maybe draw them in a different setting, with a new expression, or even in a different style. This is a great way to challenge yourself and explore your creativity further. You can also try drawing different versions of the same character throughout their history, showcasing their evolution in design and style. This can be a fascinating project that allows you to appreciate the artistry behind animation. Drawing cartoon characters is a fantastic way to improve your understanding of basic shapes and proportions, which are fundamental skills in drawing. So, grab your drawing tools and let your favorite cartoon character inspire your next masterpiece. Remember, the goal is to have fun and express your love for these timeless characters through your art.

2. A Still Life of Everyday Objects

Another excellent option for things to draw when bored is a still life of everyday objects. Gather a few items from around your home – perhaps a vase of flowers, some fruits, a teacup, or even a collection of interesting bottles. Arranging these objects in a pleasing composition and drawing them can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. This exercise is not just about replicating what you see; it's about observing the interplay of light and shadow, the textures of different materials, and the overall harmony of the scene. Pay close attention to the details, such as the way light reflects off a glass surface or the subtle curves of a fruit. Try experimenting with different lighting setups to see how they affect the appearance of the objects. This can add depth and drama to your drawing. You can also challenge yourself by using different drawing mediums, such as pencils, charcoal, or colored pencils, to capture the textures and colors of the objects more accurately. Drawing a still life helps you develop your observational skills and your ability to translate three-dimensional objects onto a two-dimensional surface. It's a fundamental exercise in art that can improve your overall drawing technique. Don’t worry about creating a perfect replica; focus on capturing the essence of the scene and expressing your artistic interpretation. The beauty of a still life lies in its simplicity and the opportunity it provides to appreciate the ordinary objects around us. So, take a fresh look at your surroundings, gather some interesting items, and create a beautiful still life drawing that reflects your unique perspective.

3. Your Pet (or Any Animal)

For animal lovers, drawing your pet is one of the most heartwarming things to draw when bored. Whether you have a furry cat, a loyal dog, a chirping bird, or any other animal companion, their unique features and personalities provide endless inspiration. Drawing your pet allows you to capture their essence and create a lasting tribute to your beloved friend. Start by observing your pet closely. Notice their posture, their expressions, and the way they move. Pay attention to the details, such as the shape of their eyes, the texture of their fur, and the way their ears perk up when they hear a sound. These details will help you create a more realistic and expressive drawing. If you don't have a pet, you can choose any animal that fascinates you – perhaps a majestic lion, a graceful horse, or a playful dolphin. There are countless resources online, such as photographs and videos, that can provide you with reference material. Drawing animals is a great way to practice your understanding of anatomy and proportion. It also challenges you to capture the unique characteristics of different species. Don't be afraid to experiment with different drawing styles and mediums. You might try a realistic drawing in graphite, a whimsical sketch in colored pencils, or even a digital painting. The possibilities are endless. Remember, the goal is to capture the spirit of the animal and express your connection with them through your art. So, grab your drawing tools and let your furry, feathered, or scaly friend inspire your next masterpiece. It's a rewarding experience that will not only improve your drawing skills but also strengthen your bond with the animal world.

4. A Landscape from Your Imagination

If you're looking for a way to escape reality through art, drawing a landscape from your imagination is one of the most captivating things to draw when bored. Let your creativity run wild as you conjure up fantastical landscapes that exist only in your mind. This is an opportunity to create a world that is uniquely yours, filled with rolling hills, towering mountains, sparkling rivers, or whatever your imagination conjures. Start by visualizing the landscape in your mind. What is the overall mood and atmosphere you want to create? Is it a peaceful and serene countryside, a dramatic and rugged mountain range, or a mystical and enchanted forest? Once you have a clear vision, you can start sketching the basic shapes and forms. Don't worry about being too precise at this stage; focus on capturing the overall composition and the sense of scale. You can then add details such as trees, rocks, clouds, and other elements that bring your landscape to life. Experiment with different perspectives and viewpoints to create a dynamic and engaging composition. Drawing imaginary landscapes is a fantastic way to practice your understanding of perspective, composition, and atmosphere. It also allows you to express your creativity and explore your artistic style. Don't be afraid to add fantastical elements to your landscape, such as floating islands, giant mushrooms, or mythical creatures. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to creating imaginary landscapes. The most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity flow. So, grab your drawing tools and transport yourself to a world of your own making. It's an artistic adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also ignite your imagination.

5. A Mandala

For a calming and meditative drawing experience, creating a mandala is one of the most therapeutic things to draw when bored. Mandalas are intricate geometric patterns that often have a circular structure, and they are traditionally used in various spiritual practices as a symbol of the universe. Drawing a mandala can be a relaxing and centering activity that helps you focus your mind and express your creativity in a structured way. Start by drawing a circle in the center of your paper. This will be the starting point of your mandala. You can then add layers of geometric shapes, patterns, and symbols around the center circle. Use a compass or ruler to ensure that your shapes are symmetrical and evenly spaced. There are countless mandala patterns and designs available online, or you can create your own unique patterns. Experiment with different shapes, such as circles, squares, triangles, and stars, and try adding floral or organic elements to your design. Drawing mandalas is a great way to improve your precision and attention to detail. It also encourages you to be patient and mindful, as the process of creating a mandala can be quite time-consuming. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; embrace them as part of the creative process. You can always incorporate them into your design or start over with a new mandala. Once you have finished drawing the basic structure of your mandala, you can add color using colored pencils, markers, or watercolors. The colors you choose can further enhance the meditative and therapeutic effects of the mandala. Remember, the goal of drawing a mandala is not to create a perfect masterpiece but to enjoy the process and find peace and relaxation in the act of creation. So, grab your drawing tools and embark on a journey of self-discovery through the art of mandala drawing. It's a beautiful way to alleviate boredom and cultivate inner peace.

6. A Zentangle

If you're looking for a simple yet captivating drawing technique, creating a Zentangle is one of the most accessible things to draw when bored. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. It's a meditative and relaxing art form that doesn't require any special artistic skills or equipment. The basic idea behind Zentangle is to divide a small piece of paper into sections and then fill each section with a different pattern. These patterns, called “tangles,” are made up of simple strokes, such as lines, dots, curves, and circles. You can create your own tangles or use patterns that you find online. The beauty of Zentangle lies in its simplicity and its ability to transform simple strokes into intricate and visually appealing designs. Start by drawing a border on your paper, usually a square or rectangle. Then, divide the area inside the border into sections using curved or straight lines. These sections don't have to be perfectly symmetrical or evenly sized; in fact, the organic nature of the sections is part of the charm of Zentangle. Once you have created your sections, you can start filling them with tangles. Don't overthink it; just let your pen flow and create patterns that feel natural and pleasing to you. You can use a variety of pens, such as fine-liners, gel pens, or even ballpoint pens. Black ink on white paper is a classic Zentangle look, but you can also experiment with colored inks and papers. Creating Zentangles is a great way to improve your focus and concentration. It also helps you to develop your pattern recognition skills and your ability to create intricate designs. The repetitive nature of the patterns can be very calming and meditative, making Zentangle a perfect antidote to boredom and stress. So, grab a pen and a piece of paper and dive into the world of Zentangle. It's a fun and rewarding art form that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.

7. Fan Art of Your Favorite Movie or TV Show

Expressing your passion for your favorite movies or TV shows through art is one of the most enjoyable things to draw when bored. Creating fan art allows you to connect with the characters, stories, and worlds that you love, while also honing your artistic skills. Whether you're a die-hard Star Wars fan, a Marvel enthusiast, or a binge-watcher of the latest Netflix series, there's no limit to the creative possibilities when it comes to fan art. Think about your favorite scenes, characters, or moments from the movie or TV show, and let those inspire your drawing. You can draw a portrait of your favorite character, recreate a memorable scene, or even design a poster for a fictional movie or episode. Pay attention to the details, such as the costumes, settings, and props, to make your fan art authentic and recognizable. You can also put your own spin on the material by reimagining characters in different styles, creating crossover art, or even inventing your own storylines. Creating fan art is a fantastic way to practice your drawing skills in a fun and engaging way. It also allows you to connect with other fans and share your artwork online. You can join online communities, participate in fan art challenges, and even sell your artwork at conventions. Don't be afraid to experiment with different drawing mediums and styles. You might try a realistic portrait in graphite, a dynamic action scene in colored pencils, or a stylized illustration in digital art. The key is to have fun and express your love for the movie or TV show through your art. So, grab your drawing tools and let your fandom inspire your next masterpiece. It's a creative outlet that will not only alleviate boredom but also connect you with a community of like-minded individuals.

8. A Self-Portrait

Delving into self-expression and introspection, drawing a self-portrait is one of the most personal things to draw when bored. A self-portrait is not just a likeness of your physical appearance; it's a reflection of your inner self, your emotions, and your unique perspective. It's an opportunity to explore your identity and express it through art. Start by looking at yourself in a mirror. Observe the shape of your face, the contours of your features, and the way light and shadow play across your skin. Pay attention to the details, such as the shape of your eyes, the curve of your lips, and the texture of your hair. These details will help you create a more realistic and expressive self-portrait. You can also use photographs as reference material, but try to capture your own interpretation of your image rather than simply copying a photograph. Consider the mood and atmosphere you want to convey in your self-portrait. Do you want to portray yourself as confident and strong, thoughtful and introspective, or playful and whimsical? Your expression, pose, and the use of light and shadow can all contribute to the overall mood of your drawing. Experiment with different drawing styles and mediums to find the approach that best suits your vision. You might try a realistic portrait in graphite, a stylized drawing in colored pencils, or an expressive self-portrait in charcoal. Don't be afraid to exaggerate certain features or distort your likeness to create a more impactful image. Drawing a self-portrait is a challenging but rewarding exercise that can help you develop your drawing skills and your self-awareness. It's a creative journey that allows you to connect with yourself on a deeper level. So, grab your drawing tools, look in the mirror, and embark on a journey of self-discovery through art.

9. A Futuristic Cityscape

For a foray into imagination and innovation, sketching a futuristic cityscape is among the most inspiring things to draw when bored. Envision a world of towering skyscrapers, flying vehicles, and advanced technology, and bring that vision to life on paper. Drawing a futuristic cityscape allows you to explore your creativity and your understanding of architectural design and technological possibilities. Start by brainstorming the key elements of your futuristic city. What kind of buildings will it have? What kind of transportation systems will be in place? Will it be a bustling metropolis or a serene and eco-friendly community? Consider the overall atmosphere and mood you want to create, and let that guide your design choices. Experiment with different shapes, forms, and materials for your buildings. Think about how technology might influence the architecture of the future. Will buildings be made of glass and steel, or will they incorporate organic materials and self-sustaining systems? You can also add details such as holographic displays, neon lights, and flying vehicles to enhance the futuristic feel of your cityscape. Drawing a futuristic cityscape is a fantastic way to practice your perspective drawing skills. It also challenges you to think creatively about the future and the possibilities of technology. Don't be afraid to add fantastical elements to your cityscape, such as floating islands, underwater structures, or even alien creatures. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to designing a futuristic cityscape. The most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity flow. So, grab your drawing tools and transport yourself to a world of tomorrow. It's an artistic adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also ignite your imagination and inspire you to think about the future.

10. A Comic Book Page

For those with a flair for storytelling and visual narrative, crafting a comic book page is one of the most engaging things to draw when bored. Designing a comic book page allows you to combine your artistic skills with your imagination to create a dynamic and compelling story. Whether you're a seasoned comic book enthusiast or just curious about the art form, this is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity. Start by brainstorming the story you want to tell. What is the plot? Who are the characters? What is the setting? Once you have a basic idea, you can start sketching out the panels of your comic book page. Think about the layout and composition of each panel, and how they flow together to tell the story. Experiment with different panel shapes and sizes to create visual interest. Consider the dialogue and sound effects you want to include in your comic book page. Use speech bubbles and thought balloons to convey the characters' words and thoughts, and add onomatopoeia (words that imitate sounds) to create a sense of action and excitement. Drawing a comic book page is a great way to practice your figure drawing, perspective drawing, and storytelling skills. It also challenges you to think about how to convey emotions and action through visual means. You can use a variety of drawing mediums and styles to create your comic book page. You might try a classic comic book style with bold lines and vibrant colors, or a more stylized and experimental approach. The key is to have fun and express your unique artistic voice. So, grab your drawing tools and create your own comic book page. It's a creative adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also ignite your imagination and inspire you to tell stories through art.

11. A Fashion Design

For the style-conscious and creatively inclined, sketching a fashion design is among the most chic things to draw when bored. Designing fashion pieces allows you to explore your creativity and your understanding of style, trends, and garment construction. Whether you dream of becoming a fashion designer or simply enjoy expressing your personal style through art, this is a fantastic way to unleash your imagination. Start by brainstorming the concept for your fashion design. What is the occasion? What is the target audience? What is the overall mood and style you want to convey? Once you have a basic idea, you can start sketching out the silhouette of your garment. Think about the shape, proportions, and fit of the garment, and how it will flatter the wearer's body. Experiment with different fabrics, textures, and colors to create a unique and visually appealing design. Add details such as embellishments, accessories, and hairstyles to complete the look. Drawing a fashion design is a great way to practice your figure drawing skills and your understanding of anatomy and proportion. It also challenges you to think about the practical aspects of garment construction, such as seams, closures, and fabric drape. You can use a variety of drawing mediums and styles to create your fashion design. You might try a realistic rendering in colored pencils, a stylized sketch in markers, or a digital illustration. The key is to have fun and express your unique fashion sense. So, grab your drawing tools and create your own fashion design. It's a creative adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also ignite your passion for style and design.

12. An Abstract Composition

For an exercise in pure creativity and expression, crafting an abstract composition is one of the most liberating things to draw when bored. Abstract art is all about exploring shapes, colors, lines, and textures without representing any specific objects or scenes. It's an opportunity to let your imagination run wild and create art that is purely based on your emotions and intuition. Start by letting go of any preconceived notions about what art should look like. There are no rules in abstract art, so feel free to experiment and explore different techniques and approaches. You can start by drawing random lines, shapes, or patterns on your paper. Don't worry about creating a recognizable image; focus on the interplay of forms and colors. Experiment with different drawing mediums and techniques to create a variety of textures and effects. You can use pencils, pens, markers, watercolors, or even mixed media to add depth and interest to your composition. Abstract art is a great way to practice your composition skills and your understanding of color theory. It also challenges you to think about how to create visual harmony and balance without relying on representational imagery. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; embrace them as part of the creative process. You can always incorporate them into your design or start over with a new composition. The beauty of abstract art lies in its ambiguity and its ability to evoke different emotions and interpretations in different viewers. So, grab your drawing tools and create your own abstract composition. It's a creative adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also unlock your inner artist and inspire you to see the world in a new way.

13. A Doodle Page

For a spontaneous and lighthearted artistic outlet, creating a doodle page is one of the most casual things to draw when bored. Doodling is a free-form drawing technique that involves creating random shapes, lines, and patterns without any specific plan or intention. It's a great way to relax, clear your mind, and let your creativity flow without the pressure of creating a masterpiece. Start by grabbing a piece of paper and your favorite drawing tool. It could be a pen, a pencil, a marker, or even a digital stylus. Then, simply start drawing whatever comes to mind. Don't overthink it; just let your hand move freely across the paper. You can draw shapes, lines, patterns, faces, animals, objects, or anything else that pops into your head. The beauty of doodling is that there are no rules. You can fill your page with a chaotic jumble of images or create a more structured and organized composition. Experiment with different styles and techniques to add variety and interest to your doodle page. Doodling is a great way to improve your hand-eye coordination and your ability to draw spontaneously. It also helps you to develop your pattern recognition skills and your sense of composition. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; embrace them as part of the doodling process. You can always incorporate them into your design or simply move on to the next doodle. Doodling is a fun and relaxing activity that you can do anytime, anywhere. It's a perfect way to alleviate boredom, reduce stress, and express your creativity in a playful and uninhibited way. So, grab your drawing tools and create your own doodle page. It's a creative adventure that will not only fill your time but also spark your imagination and help you discover new artistic possibilities.

14. A Combination of All the Above

To truly break free from creative constraints, merging various ideas is among the most inventive things to draw when bored. Why limit yourself to just one concept when you can blend multiple ideas and create something entirely unique? Combining elements from different drawing prompts can lead to unexpected and exciting artistic outcomes. Think about how you can integrate your favorite cartoon character into a futuristic cityscape, or how you can create a still life with a touch of abstract flair. Perhaps you could design a fashion collection inspired by your pet, or draw a landscape that incorporates Zentangle patterns. The possibilities are endless! This approach challenges you to think outside the box and push the boundaries of your creativity. It's about experimenting, improvising, and finding unexpected connections between seemingly disparate ideas. Combining different drawing prompts is a great way to practice your problem-solving skills and your ability to think creatively under pressure. It also helps you to develop your artistic versatility and your unique style. Don't be afraid to mix and match different drawing mediums and techniques to add depth and complexity to your artwork. You can combine traditional drawing methods with digital tools, or use a variety of materials to create mixed-media compositions. The key is to have fun and let your imagination guide you. Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect masterpiece but to explore your creativity and discover new artistic possibilities. So, grab your drawing tools, gather your inspiration, and start combining ideas. It's a creative adventure that will not only alleviate boredom but also ignite your imagination and help you develop your artistic voice.