Ankylosaurus: The Armored Dinosaur, Easy to Draw for Kids and Adults
Embark on a prehistoric adventure with the Ankylosaurus, a fascinating armored dinosaur that roamed the Earth during the late Cretaceous period. With its distinctive clubbed tail and bony plates, this dinosaur is not only intriguing but also a fun subject for easy drawings. Let's explore how to draw an Ankylosaurus step by step, making it an enjoyable activity for both kids and adults.
Understanding the Ankylosaurus
Before we dive into the drawing process, let's learn a bit more about the Ankylosaurus. This herbivorous dinosaur was covered in bony plates and had a club-like tail, which it used for defense against predators. Its name comes from the Greek words 'ankylos' meaning 'curved' and 'sauros' meaning 'lizard'. The Ankylosaurus was one of the largest armored dinosaurs, measuring up to 20 feet in length and weighing as much as six tons.
Materials Needed for Your Ankylosaurus Drawing
- Pencil (HB or 2B)
- Eraser
- Drawing paper or sketchbook
- Optional: Colored pencils or markers for adding color
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Draw an Ankylosaurus
Step 1: Draw the Basic Shapes
Begin by drawing a large oval for the body, a smaller oval for the head, and a long, curved line for the tail. Add a smaller oval for the hip area and two large circles for the legs. Sketch a small triangle for the ankle and a larger triangle for the club-like end of the tail.

Step 2: Add the Bony Plates
Ankylosaurus had bony plates along its back and sides. Draw these as irregular, overlapping shapes connected by lines. Start with a large, diamond-shaped plate at the hip area, then add smaller plates along the back and sides, tapering towards the head and tail.
Step 3: Sketch the Head Details
Draw a large, rounded rectangle for the mouth and two small circles for the nostrils. Add a line for the eye and a small triangle for the ear. Sketch the horns on the head and the spikes along the back of the neck.
Step 4: Refine the Tail Club
Start with a large, rounded rectangle for the base of the tail club. Add a series of smaller, overlapping rectangles to create the club's distinctive shape. Sketch the spikes along the top of the club and the small, rounded end.

Step 5: Add Final Details
Draw the fingers and toes, adding small triangles for the claws. Sketch the lines and patterns on the bony plates and the texture on the skin. You can also add color at this stage if desired.
Step 6: Trace and Clean Up Your Drawing
Using a lightbox or tracing paper, trace over your sketch with a darker pencil or pen. Erase any visible guidelines and clean up any smudges or mistakes. Your Ankylosaurus drawing is now complete!
Tips for Improving Your Ankylosaurus Drawing
- Practice drawing the basic shapes and forms regularly to improve your skills.
- Study reference images of Ankylosaurus to capture its unique features accurately.
- Experiment with different drawing materials, such as charcoal or pastels, to add texture and depth to your drawing.
- Try drawing the Ankylosaurus in different poses or environments to challenge yourself and improve your skills.
Drawing an Ankylosaurus can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to connect with the past and unleash your creativity. With practice and patience, you'll be able to create stunning depictions of this incredible dinosaur. Happy drawing!























