Anime Character Design Generator: A Six-Line Design Brief

Press New character for a role, hair, a face, an outfit, a signature item and one colour accent.

Anime Character Design Generator: A Six-Line Design Brief: 30 characters

A ramen shop heir. Hair: a heavy fringe that shadows the eyes. Face: an open laugh that shows the top teeth. Outfit: a rider's long coat with a high collar. Signature item: oversized headphones. Colour accent: pearl, on anything round.

Padlock: keep a part. Arrows: change only that part.

  • Roleramen shop heir
  • Haira heavy fringe that shadows the eyes
  • Facean open laugh that shows the top teeth
  • Outfita rider's long coat with a high collar
  • Signature itemoversized headphones
  • Colour accentpearl, on anything round
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    Character of the day

     

    1. A ramen shop heir. Hair: a heavy fringe that shadows the eyes. Face: an open laugh that shows the top teeth. Outfit: a rider's long coat with a high collar. Signature item: oversized headphones. Colour accent: pearl, on anything round.
    2. An apprentice talisman writer with ink on both hands. Hair: straight hair with blunt ends at the shoulder blades. Face: large round eyes with two highlights each. Outfit: a courier's windbreaker with reflective stripes. Signature item: a soccer ball in a net bag. Colour accent: black with one neon line.
    3. An android who collects human sayings. Hair: short hair with one thin braid at the nape. Face: a cat mouth like a 3 on its side. Outfit: a happi coat with a big crest on the back. Signature item: a library card worn soft. Colour accent: silver white, on stars and sparkles.
    4. A student council treasurer with a locked cash box. Hair: fluffy short hair like a cloud. Face: an open laugh that shows the top teeth. Outfit: an oversized jacket with a collar that lights up. Signature item: a wristband with one blinking light. Colour accent: brick red, on patches and repairs.
    5. An upperclassman everyone asks for advice. Hair: a bowl cut with a perfect edge. Face: sparkling eyes with four-point glints. Outfit: a sailor-collar top with wide pants. Signature item: a pair of drumsticks in the back pocket. Colour accent: gold yellow, on buttons and fastenings.
    6. A household robot with a dry sense of humour. Hair: long hair with ends that curl inward. Face: a single fang at the corner of the mouth. Outfit: a spirit's robes with ribbons that float. Signature item: a whistle that has never been blown. Colour accent: mint green, on the trim.
    7. A rookie pilot of a giant robot. Hair: an undercut with a long top. Face: a pale crescent at the bottom of each iris. Outfit: a track jersey zipped to the chin. Signature item: a wristband with one blinking light. Colour accent: mint green, on the trim.
    8. A festival stall runner who lets children win. Hair: a high ponytail with a wide ribbon. Face: one eye a shade darker than the other. Outfit: a blazer uniform with the sleeves pushed up. Signature item: an eraser carved into a stamp. Colour accent: sand, on the outer layer.
    9. A figure skater who hums the music. Hair: an ahoge that springs back up. Face: a smug half smile with closed eyes. Outfit: a healer's white coat with gold trim. Signature item: a lollipop that is never finished. Colour accent: navy, in place of black for every outline.
    10. A daydreamer who sits by the window. Hair: a fringe pinned back with two clips. Face: pale irises with a dark rim. Outfit: a cardigan with sleeves past the fingers. Signature item: a wrench carried like a wand. Colour accent: emerald, in the eyes and one gem.
    11. A quiet one who tops every exam. Hair: low twin tails over the shoulders. Face: irises dark at the top and bright below. Outfit: a blazer uniform with loose socks in heavy folds. Signature item: a wooden ema plaque with an unfinished wish. Colour accent: sea green, on whatever they carry.
    12. An ace pitcher who sulks after every win. Hair: knee-length hair that trails like a cape. Face: a coloured line along the upper lid. Outfit: a guild uniform with a badge on the sleeve. Signature item: a hachimaki headband with one word on it. Colour accent: forest green, on the cape or coat.
    13. A figure skater who hums the music. Hair: low twin tails over the shoulders. Face: a tiny triangle mouth open in surprise. Outfit: a sailor-style school uniform with a red scarf. Signature item: oversized headphones. Colour accent: midnight blue with small white stars.
    14. A daydreamer who sits by the window. Hair: two colours split down the part. Face: irises dark at the top and bright below. Outfit: a cheer squad jacket and a pleated skirt. Signature item: a bag of bread crusts for the birds. Colour accent: navy, in place of black for every outline.
    15. A student council treasurer with a locked cash box. Hair: long waves that take up half the panel. Face: small dot eyes on a wide face. Outfit: a guild uniform with a badge on the sleeve. Signature item: a school bag covered in charms. Colour accent: rust, on whatever is oldest.
    16. A figure skater who hums the music. Hair: a fringe pushed up off the forehead. Face: pupils ringed with a lighter colour. Outfit: a cardigan with sleeves past the fingers. Signature item: a hot pack shaken between the palms. Colour accent: vermilion, on one cord or strap.
    17. A navigator who reads paper maps on a starship. Hair: an ahoge that springs back up. Face: a single fang at the corner of the mouth. Outfit: a blazer uniform with loose socks in heavy folds. Signature item: a box of chalk. Colour accent: navy, in place of black for every outline.
    18. A cleaning-duty partner who does all the work. Hair: two-tone hair, dark at the roots and bright at the ends. Face: tall oval eyes with a thick upper line. Outfit: an android's plain tunic with seams at the neck and wrists. Signature item: a canned drink from a vending machine. Colour accent: peach, on the cheeks and the trim.
    19. A manager of a baseball team that never wins. Hair: layers that fan out like feathers. Face: a sweat drop on the brow beside a fixed smile. Outfit: a rider's long coat with a high collar. Signature item: a box of chalk. Colour accent: sand, on the outer layer.
    20. A runaway heir travelling under a false name. Hair: odango buns. Face: one eye a shade darker than the other. Outfit: an android's plain tunic with seams at the neck and wrists. Signature item: a tenugui towel tied round the head. Colour accent: deep purple, on a lining that shows when they move.
    21. A cyborg courier who is never late. Hair: orange hair that looks lit from behind. Face: dark vertical lines under one eye. Outfit: a haori jacket over everyday clothes. Signature item: an instant camera and a pocket of prints. Colour accent: charcoal with brass buttons.
    22. A pilot who joined the team by accident. Hair: a single lock that falls between the eyes. Face: puffed cheeks and a pout. Outfit: a witch's hat and a short cape over a pleated uniform. Signature item: a long bow case carried upright. Colour accent: red, on whatever is tied or knotted.
    23. A flower shop owner who talks to the stock. Hair: short twin tails that stick straight out. Face: diamond-shaped pupils. Outfit: a jersey jacket and a skirt over leggings. Signature item: a club flyer nobody has taken. Colour accent: magenta, at the tips of the hair.
    24. An exchange student still learning the slang. Hair: a half-up bun with the rest loose. Face: a blank look with the mouth slightly open. Outfit: a hero's tunic with a scarf that is far too long. Signature item: a skateboard with stickers underneath. Colour accent: steel blue, on metal parts.
    25. A cheer squad leader with a megaphone. Hair: straight hair with blunt ends at the shoulder blades. Face: tears beading at the corners of the eyes. Outfit: a conductor's tailcoat one size too big. Signature item: a club flyer nobody has taken. Colour accent: black and white stripes, on one item only.
    26. A cleaning-duty partner who does all the work. Hair: a long mane that hides the ears. Face: oval blush dot on each cheek. Outfit: a drum major's jacket and a tall plumed hat. Signature item: a bamboo practice sword in a long cloth bag. Colour accent: scarlet, in the eyes and one accessory.
    27. A test pilot who talks to the cockpit. Hair: hair long on one side and short on the other. Face: eyes with no highlight at all. Outfit: a high-collared coat with ragged tails and a chain. Signature item: a red pen for correcting everyone. Colour accent: scarlet, in the eyes and one accessory.
    28. A quiet bass player of the band. Hair: a low ponytail tied with a cord. Face: round cheeks and a mouth full of food. Outfit: suspenders and rolled pants. Signature item: a guitar case covered in travel stickers. Colour accent: cream, on the largest garment.
    29. A rhythm game champion of one arcade. Hair: a fringe pushed up off the forehead. Face: a proud look down the nose. Outfit: a village outfit of tunic, vest and rolled sleeves. Signature item: a keychain of a round mascot nobody recognizes. Colour accent: vermilion, on one cord or strap.
    30. A mountain courier who knows every pass. Hair: a shaggy cut in choppy layers. Face: irises dark at the top and bright below. Outfit: a cardigan with sleeves past the fingers. Signature item: a roasted sweet potato in newspaper. Colour accent: ivory with a thin gold edge.

    Next step Practice one anime part at a timeGet a pose to draw them in

    Role: all 85 roles

    School 14

    • art club member who sketches during every lesson Graphite on the side of one hand and a sketchbook under the desk.
    • broadcast club announcer A microphone on a stand and one hand over an ear.
    • class representative who runs everything Neat hair, a straight back and a clipboard. Nothing is out of place.
    Show all 85 roles (82 more)

    School, continued

    • cleaning-duty partner who does all the work A broom in one hand, a bucket in the other and sleeves pushed up.
    • daydreamer who sits by the window Chin in one hand and eyes on the sky. Light the face from one side.
    • exchange student still learning the slang A phrase book with paper tabs, and a smile that comes half a beat late.
    • founder of a club that meets in a stairwell A hand-lettered sign and a hopeful smile.
    • library committee member who knows every shelf A stack of books held against the chest and a pencil in the hair.
    • lunch-break card game champion A fan of cards held close and a grin over the top of them.
    • quiet one who tops every exam Small in the frame, with one confident detail such as a steady stare.
    • school newspaper reporter chasing a rumour A notebook open, a pen behind the ear and the body leaning forward.
    • student council treasurer with a locked cash box The box is always under one arm. Draw the other hand free.
    • transfer student nobody can place Give them one thing that does not match the others: a bag, a collar or a way of standing.
    • upperclassman everyone asks for advice Relaxed shoulders and a jacket worn open. They never hurry.

    Adventure 14

    • apprentice blacksmith with big plans Soot on the nose, heavy gloves and a drawing of something impossible.
    • guild receptionist who used to adventure A neat desk uniform and one old scar on the gear, not the person.
    • innkeeper's helper who wants to see the sea An apron, a tray and eyes on the door.
    • job board regular who takes the odd tasks A handful of paper notices and a tired, willing face.
    • mapmaker of places that move Rolled charts on the back and a compass in the hand.
    • monster tamer whose partner is tiny Leave room on a shoulder or in a pocket for the partner.
    • mountain courier who knows every pass A tall pack, a walking pole and cheeks red from the wind.
    • relic hunter who always asks permission A brush, a notebook and a polite bow to an empty ruin.
    • retired hero running a noodle stall A cook's headband over a face that has seen things. Keep one piece of old gear.
    • rival who trains alone Draw them from behind or from the side. They are always looking at something else.
    • runaway heir travelling under a false name Plain clothes and one item that is far too fine.
    • ship's lookout who gets seasick A spyglass in one hand and the rail in the other.
    • sword student who has never won a match Bandages on the fingers and a practice sword carried with care.
    • tournament newcomer nobody has heard of A number pinned on crooked and a calm expression.

    Magic 14

    • apprentice talisman writer with ink on both hands A brush, strips of paper and smudges to the wrists.
    • card reader who is always nearly right A deck of cards fanned out, with one falling.
    • cat-eared familiar on loan to a beginner The ears do the acting. Tilt them before you draw the face.
    • charm seller at a shrine market A tray of small pouches and a price list with everything crossed out once.
    • dream walker who falls asleep in class Heavy lids, a pillow mark on one cheek and a faint glow.
    • first-week magical girl still reading the manual A grand costume and a small booklet held open.
    • fox spirit passing as a student Everything is ordinary except one detail that slips: an ear, a tail tip, a shadow.
    • librarian of a tower of spell books A ladder, a lamp and a book that is trying to close itself.
    • noble who turns into a cat at noon Draw the human form with one cat habit, such as a paw-like hand at the mouth.
    • shrine attendant who can see spirits Calm eyes looking slightly past the viewer, at something that is not drawn.
    • star reader who navigates by horoscope A chart of the sky and a finger pointing the wrong way.
    • summoner whose creatures are all very small A circle on the ground and something the size of an apple inside it.
    • weather mage who only does drizzle A small grey cloud overhead and a patient face.
    • witch's apprentice who mixes up the labels Two bottles, one in each hand, and a look from one to the other.

    Machines 14

    • android who collects human sayings A perfectly even face with one eyebrow trying something new.
    • coder who works from a noodle shop A laptop beside a bowl, with steam on the screen.
    • cyborg courier who is never late One plain mechanical arm and a parcel held level.
    • drone racer with a homemade rig Goggles on the forehead and a controller held together with tape.
    • greenhouse hand on an orbital farm A watering wand, a trailing vine and stars in the window behind.
    • household robot with a dry sense of humour A simple face plate and a tilt of the head.
    • inventor whose inventions almost work Singed eyebrows and a gadget that is smoking slightly.
    • mechanic who names every wrench Oil on the cheek, a wrench in the hand and three more in the belt.
    • navigator who reads paper maps on a starship A map spread across a console covered in lights.
    • pilot who joined the team by accident A uniform one size wrong and a badge pinned on in a hurry.
    • radio operator on a deep-space freighter A headset on one ear and a mug that has been there a long time.
    • rookie pilot of a giant robot A helmet too clean to have been used, and a nervous grip on the straps.
    • salvage diver on a flooded city block A lamp on the helmet, a net bag and a street sign under water.
    • test pilot who talks to the cockpit One hand flat on a panel, as if on a horse's neck.

    Stage and sport 15

    • ace pitcher who sulks after every win A cap pulled down and a ball turned over in the fingers.
    • archery club member who talks to the target A long bow held upright and the mouth open in the middle of a remark.
    • cheer squad leader with a megaphone The megaphone covers half the face. The eyes do the cheering.
    • drummer who taps on everything Sticks in hand, even at a desk. Add small motion marks.
    • figure skater who hums the music One arm out, weight on one leg and a scarf trailing.
    • idol trainee who cannot dance yet A practice room mirror, a towel and a foot in the wrong place.
    • karate club beginner in a stiff new uniform The sleeves stand away from the arms. Keep the creases sharp.
    • kendo club captain Armour on, mask off and a bamboo sword held point down.
    • manager of a baseball team that never wins A scorebook, a whistle and a face that still believes.
    • quiet bass player of the band Hair over the eyes and a strap worn low. Put them at the edge of the stage.
    • rhythm game champion of one arcade Lit from below by the screen, with both hands a blur.
    • school festival stage director A rolled script used as a pointer, and a headset round the neck.
    • street dancer with a day job A work shirt tied round the waist and sneakers worn at the toes.
    • voice acting student with a notebook of accents One hand at the throat and a page of marked-up lines.
    • volleyball setter who calls every play Both hands up, fingers spread and eyes on a ball out of frame.

    Everyday work 14

    • apprentice sushi chef still on rice duty A wooden tub, a paddle and a very serious face.
    • bakery part-timer who eats the mistakes Flour on the cheek and half a bun behind the back.
    • bookstore clerk who has read everything A feather duster, a tall stack and a bookmark in the top one.
    • comic shop clerk who draws between customers Ink on the fingers, a pen behind the ear and a page under the counter.
    • convenience store night clerk A striped apron, a price gun and the flat light of a shop at night.
    • deckhand home for the summer Rolled sleeves, a coil of rope and a sunburnt nose.
    • delivery rider who knows every shortcut A helmet under one arm and a box strapped behind.
    • festival stall runner who lets children win A row of prizes behind and a hand hiding a smile.
    • flower shop owner who talks to the stock An apron, shears and a bucket of stems leaning in to listen.
    • only server in a seaside cafe A round tray, a short apron and windblown hair.
    • ramen shop heir A cook's apron, a ladle and a headband tied at the back.
    • station attendant in white gloves A cap, a whistle and one arm out straight along the platform.
    • taxi driver with a story for every street White gloves on the wheel and eyes in the mirror.
    • toy shop owner who remembers every customer A glass counter, a wind-up key and a paper bag folded at the top.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is a role in plain English. Four terms were checked on 2026-09-30: kendo, which uses bamboo swords and protective armor (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kendo); idols, who are singers trained in other performance skills (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_idol); mecha, the giant piloted robots of science fiction (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mecha); and the magical girl, who uses her powers through an alter ego she transforms into (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magical_girl). The notes are our own design advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    Hair: all 70 hairstyles

    Fringe and stray strands 14

    • a centre part with two long locks beside the face The two locks hang in front of the ears and frame the cheeks.
    • a crown tuft that droops when they are sad A small plume at the top of the head. Its angle is part of the expression.
    • a fringe in three clean points Three triangles pointing down. The middle one is the longest.
    Show all 70 hairstyles (67 more)

    Fringe and stray strands, continued

    • a fringe pinned back with two clips The forehead shows. Cross the clips into an X.
    • a fringe pushed up off the forehead The hair stands up in front as if blown from below.
    • a fringe that parts over one eyebrow A small gap in the fringe, off centre, shows one brow.
    • a fringe trimmed a little crooked Slope the edge by a few degrees. It looks homemade.
    • a heavy fringe that shadows the eyes Shade a band across the top of the eyes, under the hair.
    • a hime cut with a straight fringe Three straight edges: the fringe, and a sidelock at cheek length on each side.
    • a single lock that falls between the eyes One thin shape down the middle of the face, ending at the nose.
    • an ahoge that springs back up One strand that leaves the head in its own direction. Draw it last, as a single curve.
    • hair swept over the left eye The covered eye is never drawn. The other one has to do the work of two.
    • long bangs tucked behind the ears Two curves that leave the face and disappear behind each ear.
    • two ahoge like antennae A pair of stray strands at the crown. Tilt them with the mood.

    Short and spiky 14

    • a bob cut level with the chin One smooth curve from the crown to the jaw on each side.
    • a bowl cut with a perfect edge One line all the way round, level with the eyebrows.
    • a pixie cut with long locks in front of the ears Short everywhere except two strands that reach the jaw.
    • a rough crop that never saw a comb Clumps that point in five directions. Keep the clumps large.
    • a shaggy cut in choppy layers Draw each layer as a row of points, and overlap the rows.
    • a spiky silhouette that reads from behind Fill it in black. If the outline alone says who it is, the design works.
    • an undercut with a long top Shade the short sides flat and let the top fall over one of them.
    • fluffy short hair like a cloud Build the outline from soft bumps and keep the inside nearly empty.
    • hair that sticks out sideways like wings Two large tufts, one over each ear, with a calmer top.
    • short hair that flicks out at the ends Each lock ends in a small upward hook.
    • short hair with one thin braid at the nape A neat head from the front, and a surprise from the back.
    • slicked-back hair with one escaped strand A smooth shape with a single line breaking away at the front.
    • soft curls cropped close Small loops packed together. Leave highlights as empty loops.
    • swept-back spikes like a flame All the points lean one way, as if the character were always moving.

    Long 14

    • a long mane that hides the ears Thick at the sides, with no ear in sight.
    • hair long on one side and short on the other The outline is lopsided on purpose. Balance it with the pose.
    • knee-length hair that trails like a cape It follows every movement a moment late. Draw it lagging behind.
    • layers that fan out like feathers Each layer ends in a point, and the points spread from the neck.
    • long hair that curls only at the tips Straight for most of its length, with one loop at each end.
    • long hair that floats when they are angry Lift the ends off the shoulders as if the air had gone.
    • long hair tied loosely at the very end A small ribbon near the tips and a soft bulge of hair above it.
    • long hair tucked into the collar The length vanishes into the clothes. Only the top half shows.
    • long hair with ends that curl inward The ends turn toward the body like a closing bracket.
    • long hair worn loose with one thin braid A single narrow braid among the loose hair, beside the face.
    • long waves that take up half the panel Let the hair leave the frame. It is part of the composition.
    • ringlets as stiff as springs Draw each one as a stack of overlapping ovals.
    • straight hair with blunt ends at the shoulder blades A level cut across the back, like the edge of a curtain.
    • waist-length straight hair that moves as one sheet Draw the outer edge first. Add only a few lines inside it.

    Tied up 14

    • a bun held by a kanzashi hairpin One long pin through the bun, with an ornament at the end.
    • a half-up bun with the rest loose A small knot at the back of the crown and loose hair below.
    • a high ponytail with a wide ribbon The ribbon is as big as the face is wide. Give it two stiff loops.
    • a low ponytail tied with a cord A thin tail down the back, bound with a few turns of cord.
    • a ponytail that reaches the knees It makes a long S behind the figure. Use it to show the wind.
    • a side ponytail One bunch from above one ear. The other side is smooth.
    • a single thick braid over one shoulder Draw it as a chain of overlapping Y shapes.
    • a topknot A short tuft tied on top of the head, like the stalk of a fruit.
    • low twin tails over the shoulders Two soft bunches that start under the ears and lie forward.
    • odango buns Two round buns, one on each side of the crown.
    • odango buns with a ribbon on each Tie a small bow under each bun and let the ends hang.
    • short twin tails that stick straight out Two little brushes, level with the eyes.
    • twin tails tied high Two bunches from the top corners of the head. They swing opposite to the turn.
    • two neat braids One each side, ending at the collarbone, tied with small bands.

    Colour 14

    • a single streak of contrasting colour One lock from root to tip, near the face.
    • an inner layer in a hidden bright colour It shows only when the hair moves. Draw it in one flying lock.
    • black hair with a blue sheen Leave the highlights blue instead of white.
    • dark green hair that reads black indoors Use green only in the highlights.
    • hair in a green no real hair has Choose the colour first and build the palette round it.
    • hair that fades from one colour to another Pick two neighbours on the colour wheel and blend through the middle.
    • hair the same colour as the eyes Match them exactly and the face becomes one calm shape.
    • lavender hair with star-shaped clips Two or three small stars above one ear.
    • orange hair that looks lit from behind Rim the outline in a paler orange.
    • pastel pink hair with darker tips Keep the pink pale enough that line art shows through.
    • silver hair tied with a red cord The red is a small, strong accent on a quiet head.
    • two colours split down the part One colour on each side, meeting on the centre line.
    • two-tone hair, dark at the roots and bright at the ends Blend the two halfway down, not in a hard line.
    • white hair with dark eyebrows The brows stay dark so the expressions read.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is a hair shape or color, written to follow the word "Hair". The Japanese terms were checked on 2026-09-30: ahoge, a noticeable strand that sticks out another way than the rest of the hair (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_anime_and_manga); the hime cut, straight hair with cheek-length sidelocks and a front fringe (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hime_cut); odango, a pair of buns (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bun_(hairstyle)); twin tails, hair with a middle parting, tied in two matching bunches (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pigtail); and kanzashi, the hair ornaments of traditional Japanese hairstyles (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanzashi). The notes are our own drawing advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    Face: all 60 looks

    Eye shapes 15

    • drooping eyes with soft outer corners Let the outer corner fall. It reads as gentle or sleepy.
    • eyes set wide apart under a high forehead Leave more than one eye's width between them.
    • eyes that close into two happy arcs Two thick curves, bowed upward. Used for a delighted look.
    Show all 60 looks (57 more)

    Eye shapes, continued

    • eyes with heavy lashes at the outer corners only Three short strokes at each outer corner and none elsewhere.
    • half-lidded eyes that always look sleepy The lid cuts the iris in half.
    • large round eyes with two highlights each One big highlight top left and one small one opposite it.
    • long eyes with a single lower lash One short stroke under the outer corner of each eye.
    • mismatched eyes, one of each colour Choose two colours that are far apart, so the difference reads when small.
    • narrow eyes with a flat upper lid The upper line is nearly straight. Keep the iris small.
    • round glasses that catch the light Leave the lenses white now and then, so the eyes vanish behind them.
    • sharp triangular eyes under straight brows The upper lid slopes down toward the nose.
    • small dot eyes on a wide face Two dots set far apart. Everything else on the face stays simple.
    • tall oval eyes with a thick upper line Twice as high as they are wide. The lower lid is hardly drawn.
    • upturned eyes with sharp outer corners Flick the outer corner up. It reads as proud or quick-tempered.
    • wide eyes with tiny pupils A lot of white round a small dot. It reads as startled.

    Pupils and highlights 15

    • a coloured line along the upper lid A thin band of colour above the lashes.
    • a pale crescent at the bottom of each iris A curved band of light along the lower edge.
    • diamond-shaped pupils Four straight sides. They suit a character who is not quite human.
    • eyes with no highlight at all Flat, dull irises. The face looks unreadable.
    • flower-shaped pupils Five small petals instead of a round dot.
    • irises dark at the top and bright below Shade the top third as if the lid cast a shadow.
    • irises drawn as plain flat discs One colour with no shading, in an older style.
    • irises shaded with fine lines Short strokes fanning out from the pupil.
    • irises with a thin bright ring at the edge A hairline of light round each iris, as if lit from behind.
    • one eye a shade darker than the other The difference is small. Only a close-up shows it.
    • pale irises with a dark rim The outline of the iris is heavier than the pupil.
    • pupils ringed with a lighter colour Draw the ring halfway between the pupil and the edge of the iris.
    • pupils with a star-shaped highlight A small star in each eye. Use it for a star-struck look.
    • slit pupils like a cat A thin vertical line that widens in the dark.
    • sparkling eyes with four-point glints Several small crosses of light in each iris.

    Expression marks 15

    • a bandage across the nose A small strip with rounded ends, worn like a badge.
    • a cat mouth like a 3 on its side Two small curves that meet in the middle, under bigger eyes than usual.
    • a hollow cross mark at the temple Four short curved lines meeting in a cross. It stands for anger or irritation.
    • a nose that is one small mark A dot or a short tick. In profile it becomes a small triangle.
    • a single fang at the corner of the mouth One small point showing at the edge of the mouth. It reads as mischief.
    • a small mouth drawn as one short line Hardly any mouth at all. The eyes carry the feeling.
    • a sweat drop on the brow beside a fixed smile One large drop at the temple. It stands for embarrassment or dismay.
    • a tiny triangle mouth open in surprise One small dark triangle, point down.
    • dark vertical lines under one eye A few parallel strokes below the eye, for mortification or fatigue.
    • one eyebrow twitching Add two short motion marks above the brow.
    • oval blush dot on each cheek Two soft ovals, one on each cheek, for a rosy look.
    • puffed cheeks and a pout Round out both cheeks and push the lips forward.
    • round cheeks and a mouth full of food One cheek bulges. Close the eyes to match.
    • tears beading at the corners of the eyes A round bubble at each outer corner, for someone about to cry.
    • three short blush strokes under each eye Slanted strokes high on the cheek. They stand for a blush.

    Expressions 15

    • a blank look with the mouth slightly open A small oval mouth and eyes without focus.
    • a deadpan stare Level lids, a flat mouth and no eyebrows in play.
    • a determined frown The brows meet in a V and the mouth is a short firm line.
    • a gentle smile that reaches the eyes The lower lids rise a little and the eyes narrow.
    • a lopsided grin One corner of the mouth is much higher than the other.
    • a nervous smile with the brows tilted up The inner ends of the brows rise while the mouth curves.
    • a proud look down the nose The head tips back and the eyes look down.
    • a serious face that is trying not to smile The mouth is a wavy line and the cheeks are tight.
    • a shy look up through the fringe The head tips down and the eyes look up.
    • a sideways glance Both irises slide to the same corner while the head stays still.
    • a smug half smile with closed eyes The chin lifts, the eyes shut and one corner of the mouth turns up.
    • a wide square mouth in the middle of a shout A big dark shape with square corners.
    • a wink with the tongue out One eye becomes an arc and a small curve shows at the mouth.
    • a yawn behind one hand The hand covers the mouth. Squeeze the eyes shut.
    • an open laugh that shows the top teeth A wide curve with a white band along its upper edge.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is an eye shape or an expression, written to follow the word "Face". The expression marks were checked on 2026-09-30 against https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manga_iconography: a sweat drop on the brow stands for embarrassment, exasperation, confusion, dismay or shock; a hollow cross shape near the top of the head for anger or irritation; hatching on the cheek for a blush and oval dots for rosy cheeks; a fang at the corner of the mouth, or a cat mouth like a 3 on its side, for mischief; vertical lines under the eye for mortification or fatigue; stars in the eyes for a star-struck look; bubbles at the corners of the eyes for someone about to cry; eyes turned into two thick half circles for a delighted look; and mouths drawn small, often as one line. The rest of each note is our own drawing advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    Outfit: all 83 outfits

    School 14

    • a blazer uniform with loose socks in heavy folds The socks bunch at the ankles like a stack of rings.
    • a blazer uniform with the sleeves pushed up Crumple the cloth above the elbows and keep the lapels crisp.
    • a cardigan with sleeves past the fingers Only the fingertips show. The cuffs do the gesturing.
    Show all 83 outfits (80 more)

    School, continued

    • a ceremony uniform with white gloves Everything is buttoned and pressed. Keep the pose stiff too.
    • a class festival T-shirt over the uniform shirt A hand-drawn design on the front and a collar showing at the neck.
    • a cleaning-duty apron and headscarf over the uniform A triangle of cloth over the hair and an apron tied at the back.
    • a gakuran worn open over a plain shirt A dark tunic with a standing collar and a row of gold buttons, left undone.
    • a lab coat over a school uniform The coat is a size too large. Fill the pocket with pens.
    • a sailor-style school uniform with a red scarf A wide flat collar with stripes, and a scarf knotted at the front.
    • a summer uniform with a sweater tied at the waist Short sleeves, and two knitted arms knotted in front.
    • a sweater vest over a white shirt with a ribbon tie A V neck, a small bow at the collar and rolled cuffs.
    • a track jersey zipped to the chin A stripe down each sleeve and a collar that hides the mouth.
    • a uniform jacket worn over the shoulders like a cape The sleeves hang empty and swing when they turn.
    • a uniform with indoor slippers in the wrong colour The slippers are a small mistake at the bottom of a correct outfit.

    Festival and traditional 13

    • a furisode with sleeves that nearly reach the ground The sleeves are the outfit. Let them swing wide of the body.
    • a hakama over a plain kimono Deep pleats fall from the waist. Count five at the front.
    • a haori jacket over everyday clothes An open jacket that hangs straight, tied loosely at the chest.
    • a happi coat with a big crest on the back A short open coat with straight sleeves. The back carries the design.
    • a jinbei for a summer night A short-sleeved top that ties at the side, and loose shorts to the knee.
    • a kimono with an apron and the sleeves tied back Working dress. Add a tray or a cloth.
    • a padded hanten jacket in winter checks Thick, short and square. It rounds off every pose.
    • a plain kimono with split-toed socks and wooden geta The sandals stand on two teeth. Show them from the side.
    • a shrine attendant's white top and red hakama Two colours only. Tie the hair back with a white ribbon.
    • a summer yukata with a wide sash A light cotton robe with a simple repeat pattern and a broad band at the waist.
    • a white keikogi tied with a coloured belt A crossed front, wide sleeves and a knot at the centre.
    • a yukata with the sleeves tied back by a cord The cord crosses on the back and loops over each shoulder.
    • an archer's hakama with the right hand gloved Stand them sideways to the viewer, feet apart.

    Fantasy 14

    • a guild uniform with a badge on the sleeve A plain jacket and one patch. Design the patch as a simple shape.
    • a healer's white coat with gold trim Long, clean and edged in a thin bright line.
    • a hero's tunic with a scarf that is far too long The scarf ends trail behind and show which way they came from.
    • a high-collared coat with ragged tails and a chain The hem is torn into points. Hang the chain from collar to shoulder.
    • a knight's armour with one oversized shoulder guard The lopsided outline makes the figure easy to recognize.
    • a mage's robe with a hood shaped like cat ears Two points on the hood that keep their shape with the hood down.
    • a rider's long coat with a high collar The collar stands to the ears. The coat is split at the back.
    • a royal uniform with epaulettes and a sash Fringed shoulders and a band of colour across the chest.
    • a spirit's robes with ribbons that float The ribbons ignore gravity. Curl them upward.
    • a village outfit of tunic, vest and rolled sleeves Simple shapes in two colours. Patch one elbow.
    • a wandering merchant's layered coats Three hems of different lengths, one over another.
    • a witch's hat and a short cape over a pleated uniform The hat brim is wider than the shoulders.
    • an adventurer's short cloak over light armour The cloak ends at the elbow. One clasp holds it on.
    • dark wraps with one bright scarf The whole figure is one dark shape with a single line of colour.

    Science fiction 14

    • a colony uniform in dusty colours with a sun visor A stiff peak over the eyes and a neck cloth behind.
    • a courier's windbreaker with reflective stripes Leave the stripes white. They are the brightest thing on the figure.
    • a hooded poncho over a breathing mask Only the eyes show between hood and mask.
    • a maintenance vest with a tool in every loop Draw each tool as a simple silhouette.
    • a padded flight suit with armour at the joints Hard caps at the shoulders, elbows and knees on a soft suit.
    • a pilot suit with a number on the shoulder Padded panels, a ring collar for a helmet and one bold numeral.
    • a racing suit covered in blank sponsor patches Rectangles of flat colour with nothing written on them.
    • a space academy uniform with a short cape A fitted jacket with a cape over one shoulder only.
    • a spacesuit with a scarf knitted at home One soft, crooked thing on a hard, perfect suit.
    • a starship captain's coat worn like a cape Arms out of the sleeves, with braid on the cuffs that hang empty.
    • a white lab coat over a hoodie The hood sits outside the collar of the coat.
    • an android's plain tunic with seams at the neck and wrists Thin lines circle the joints where panels meet.
    • an oversized jacket with a collar that lights up Draw a thin bright band inside the collar. It lights the jaw.
    • grease-marked coveralls with one sleeve torn off The bare arm side carries a tool strap instead.

    Stage and sport 14

    • a baseball uniform with a dirt-stained knee Pinstripes, a cap and one brown smear.
    • a basketball jersey over a long-sleeved shirt A big number on the front and sweatbands at the wrists.
    • a cheer squad jacket and a pleated skirt A letter on the chest and a pom-pom in each hand.
    • a conductor's tailcoat one size too big The cuffs cover the knuckles and the tails reach the calves.
    • a dancer's practice clothes with leg warmers A loose top, a towel round the neck and soft tubes at the ankles.
    • a drum major's jacket and a tall plumed hat Braid across the chest and a plume on top.
    • a figure skating costume with a short cape Close-fitting and long-sleeved, with a cape that lifts in a spin.
    • a magician's tuxedo and a top hat A bow tie, white gloves and something half out of the hat.
    • a rock band outfit with one fingerless glove Dark layers, a studded belt and a single glove on the strumming hand.
    • a soccer kit with the captain's armband A band of colour high on one sleeve.
    • a team tracksuit with the name across the back Show the back. The name can be a row of marks.
    • a transformation costume with a big bow at the back The bow is as wide as the shoulders. Its tails reach the knees.
    • an idol stage costume with ribbons at the wrists A short jacket, layers below and ribbon ends that trail every gesture.
    • kendo armour with the mask under one arm A chest guard, a skirt of padded flaps and thick gloves.

    Casual 14

    • a bomber jacket covered in pins Ribbed cuffs and waist, and a scatter of small round badges.
    • a jersey jacket and a skirt over leggings Sporty on top and layered below.
    • a long cardigan over a dress The cardigan hangs lower than the hem beneath it.
    • a parka with a fluffy hood A ring of fluff round the face. Keep the rest plain.
    • a pea coat and earmuffs A double row of buttons and two round pads over the ears.
    • a raincoat and rubber boots with frog faces Two round eyes on the toe of each boot.
    • a sailor-collar top with wide pants The collar from a uniform on clothes for a day off.
    • a T-shirt printed with one cheerful, meaningless word Letter the word in block capitals and do not explain it.
    • a turtleneck and a long pleated skirt A tall folded collar under the chin and straight pleats to the shin.
    • an apron from the family shop over street clothes The shop's mark is on the bib. Invent a simple one.
    • an oversized hoodie with the hood up The hood shades the eyes and the hands hide in the front pocket.
    • denim overalls and a striped shirt Bib, two buckles and stripes showing at the sides.
    • pyjamas with a cat print and a blanket The blanket goes over the head like a hood.
    • suspenders and rolled pants Two straps, a white shirt and bare ankles.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is one outfit, written to follow the word "Outfit". The Japanese garments were checked on 2026-09-30: the gakuran, a tunic with a stand-up collar and five gold buttons worn with matching trousers, and the sailor-style and blazer school uniforms (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School_uniforms_in_Japan, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sailor_suit); uwabaki, slippers worn indoors at school (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uwabaki); loose socks pushed down in heavy folds (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slouch_sock); the yukata, an unlined summer kimono worn at summer festivals (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yukata); hakama, pleated and worn over a kimono (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hakama); the shrine attendant's white top and red hakama (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miko); the happi, a festival coat with a large design on the back (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happi); jinbei, worn in summer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jinbei); the haori, a jacket worn over a kimono, and the padded hanten (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haori); the furisode, a kimono with long sleeves (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Furisode); tabi, split-toed socks (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabi); geta, wooden sandals raised on teeth (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geta_(footwear)); tasuki, a cord that holds kimono sleeves back (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tasuki_(sash)); the keikogi, a uniform for martial arts practice (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keikogi); the obi sash (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obi_(sash)); and the glove worn on the right hand in kyudo, Japanese archery (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyūdō). The notes are our own drawing advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    Signature item: all 71 items

    School things 14

    • a bento wrapped in a furoshiki cloth A square bundle knotted on top, carried by the knot.
    • a box of chalk White dust on the fingers and on one cheek.
    • a class duty armband A band pinned high on one sleeve, slightly twisted.
    • a club flyer nobody has taken A stack of identical sheets held out with both hands.
    Show all 71 items (67 more)

    School things, continued

    • a library card worn soft The corners are round with use. Hold it between two fingers.
    • a mechanical pencil spun between the fingers Draw the pencil three times in a faint arc.
    • a notebook with a doodle in every margin Hold it open toward the viewer and fill the edges.
    • a paper airplane with a message inside Catch it leaving the hand, nose slightly up.
    • a randoseru worn long past childhood A boxy backpack with a curved flap. It looks small on a tall figure.
    • a red pen for correcting everyone Held like a pointer. Put a red mark on something nearby.
    • a school bag covered in charms The charms outnumber the books. Cluster them at one corner.
    • a stack of printouts taller than the head Only the eyes show round the side of the pile.
    • a student ID on a frayed strap A small card that swings forward when they lean.
    • an eraser carved into a stamp A tiny block with a simple shape cut into one face.

    Sport and training 14

    • a bamboo practice sword in a long cloth bag A tall narrow bag over one shoulder, tied at the top.
    • a baseball glove worn soft The glove sits on the head or hangs from the bag when not in use.
    • a basketball spun on one finger Add curved lines round the ball for the spin.
    • a hachimaki headband with one word on it A strip of white cloth tied at the back, with the ends flying.
    • a jump rope Looped and hung round the neck like a scarf.
    • a kendama A ball on a string and a handle with cups. Catch the ball in the air.
    • a long bow case carried upright Taller than the figure. It tilts when they go through a door.
    • a pair of drumsticks in the back pocket Two thin lines crossing behind the hip.
    • a skateboard with stickers underneath Carry it by one end so the underside faces the viewer.
    • a soccer ball in a net bag Slung over one shoulder, bouncing against the back.
    • a stopwatch on a cord It hangs at the chest. The thumb is always on the button.
    • a tenugui towel tied round the head A thin patterned cloth knotted at the back.
    • a water bottle with the team's name Dented, and covered in peeling tape.
    • a whistle that has never been blown Shiny and unscratched on a new cord.

    Charms and keepsakes 14

    • a bell on a red cord Draw two small curved marks beside it when it rings.
    • a coin with a hole in the middle on a string Worn at the wrist or tied to a bag.
    • a daruma doll, one eye painted in A round red figure with one white eye still waiting.
    • a folding fan snapped open for effect A half circle of ribs. Use it to hide the mouth.
    • a kanzashi of folded cloth flowers A cluster of small petals on a pin, with a dangling strand.
    • a keychain of a round mascot nobody recognizes A circle with two dots and a smile, on a short chain.
    • a pendant shaped like a crescent moon It turns to catch the light. Add one bright point.
    • a pressed four-leaf clover in a clear case A small flat square kept in a breast pocket.
    • a round uchiwa fan from a summer festival A flat paddle of paper on a stick, tucked into the sash or the collar.
    • a strip of photo booth pictures Four small frames. Leave them as silhouettes.
    • a teru teru bozu doll on a string A white cloth ghost with a round head, hung by the neck cord.
    • a wooden ema plaque with an unfinished wish A small five-sided board on a cord.
    • a wristwatch worn over the sleeve A big face on a wide strap, outside the cuff where everyone can see it.
    • an omamori charm tied to the bag A small flat pouch with a knotted cord at the top.

    Gear and gadgets 15

    • a flip phone covered in stickers Open it like a shell. A charm swings from the hinge.
    • a guitar case covered in travel stickers Carried on the back, taller than the head.
    • a handheld game console with a cracked corner Both thumbs busy and the face lit from below.
    • a paper map in a clear case Hung round the neck and marked with a grease pencil.
    • a pilot's helmet with a hand-painted emblem Carry it under one arm so the emblem faces out.
    • a pocket spell book full of sticky notes Paper tabs in three colours stick out of the top.
    • a radio with a bent antenna The antenna points the way they are not looking.
    • a round robot that rides on the shoulder A ball with one eye and two short arms.
    • a visor that slides down over one eye A small tinted panel on a headband.
    • a wand shaped like a star on a stick A simple five-point star with a ribbon tied under it.
    • a wrench carried like a wand Held up and pointed. It is longer than the forearm.
    • a wristband with one blinking light A plain band with a single dot. Add a small glow.
    • an instant camera and a pocket of prints A boxy camera on a strap and white-bordered squares.
    • oversized headphones Round the neck when talking and over the ears when not.
    • welding goggles worn as a headband Two dark round lenses on the forehead that reflect the sky.

    Food and small comforts 14

    • a bag of bread crusts for the birds A paper bag, and two or three birds at the feet.
    • a box of chocolate-dipped biscuit sticks One stick held in the teeth like a toothpick.
    • a canned drink from a vending machine Held with two fingers at the rim.
    • a carton of strawberry milk with a straw A small box held in one hand, with the straw bent.
    • a clear plastic umbrella Draw what is behind it, then a few arcs over the top.
    • a hot pack shaken between the palms A small square pouch. Add motion marks on each side.
    • a kitten that rides in the bag Two ears and two eyes over the zip.
    • a lollipop that is never finished The stick moves from one corner of the mouth to the other.
    • a potted cactus with a name A small round cactus in a cup, carried in both hands.
    • a roasted sweet potato in newspaper Broken in half, with steam rising from the break.
    • a steamed bun too hot to hold Toss it from hand to hand, with steam lines above.
    • a stuffed rabbit with one long ear Held by the ear, so the body swings.
    • a thermos of tea The lid is a cup. Draw the cup steaming.
    • an onigiri with one bite gone A rice triangle with a dark band of nori and a curved bite out of the top.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is one thing the character is known by, written to follow the words "Signature item". The Japanese items were checked on 2026-09-30: the randoseru, a firm-sided backpack used by elementary schoolchildren (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Randoseru); bento, a meal in a box with a lid (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bento); furoshiki, wrapping cloths (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Furoshiki); the shinai, a bamboo sword for kendo practice (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinai); kendama, a handle with cups and a spike joined to a ball by a string (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kendama); tenugui, a thin cotton towel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenugui); the hachimaki headband (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachimaki); omamori, amulets kept in a brocade bag (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omamori); teru teru bozu, a white doll hung up in hope of sunny weather (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teru_teru_bōzu); the daruma doll, whose left eye is painted in when a wish is made (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daruma_doll); ema, wooden plaques for wishes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ema_(Shinto)); the rigid uchiwa fan and the folding fan (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand_fan); and onigiri, rice shaped into a triangle and wrapped in nori (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onigiri). The notes are our own drawing advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    Colour accent: all 60 accents

    Warm 15

    • amber, in the eyes and nowhere else Keep the rest of the palette cool so the eyes glow.
    • brick red, on patches and repairs Every mend is the same colour, so the history shows.
    • coral, on the lining of every garment It shows only at collars, cuffs and hems.
    Show all 60 accents (57 more)

    Warm, continued

    • crimson, on the signature item only Everything else stays quiet so the item is found first.
    • gold yellow, on buttons and fastenings Small bright dots in a row lead the eye down the figure.
    • magenta, at the tips of the hair Blend it in over the last inch only.
    • orange, as a single stripe One stripe, in one place. Resist adding a second.
    • peach, on the cheeks and the trim A soft colour that links the face to the clothes.
    • red, on whatever is tied or knotted Ribbons, cords, laces and scarves all share the one red.
    • rose pink, inside the collar and cuffs A hidden colour for a character with a soft side.
    • scarlet, in the eyes and one accessory Two small areas of the same strong colour pull the face and the item together.
    • sunflower yellow, on the hair accessory and the shoes The colour at the top and the bottom frames the figure.
    • tangerine, on anything that glows Screens, lamps and magic all share it.
    • vermilion, on one cord or strap A thin line of colour across the body.
    • warm brown, on leather and wood Belts, straps and handles match one another.

    Cool 15

    • aqua, wherever the light comes from Rim the lit side of the figure with it.
    • cobalt, as a pattern of dots Small dots on one garment only.
    • emerald, in the eyes and one gem The gem can be on a ring, a clasp or the item.
    • ice blue, on highlights only Every shine on hair, eyes and metal carries the same tint.
    • indigo, on the largest garment One big area of deep colour and small pale ones round it.
    • lavender, on the lining It shows when a coat or sleeve swings open.
    • lilac, at the ends of the hair Fade it in from the natural colour.
    • mint green, on the trim A thin edge on collars, pockets and hems.
    • navy, in place of black for every outline The whole drawing softens a little.
    • sea green, on whatever they carry The item and its strap share the colour.
    • sky blue, on everything round the neck Collars, ties and scarves. It sits right under the face.
    • steel blue, on metal parts Buckles, zips and tools all go the same cool grey-blue.
    • teal, in the hair accessory and the eyes Match the two exactly.
    • turquoise, on one side of the body only One sleeve, one sock, one earring.
    • violet, in the shadows Shade with violet instead of grey.

    Pale 15

    • a pastel rainbow, only on the smallest things Clips, buttons and charms take a different pastel each.
    • baby blue, on bows and buttons Small, repeated and all the same shade.
    • blush, on the tip of the nose and the ears A touch of colour for cold weather.
    • butter yellow, as a check pattern A grid on one garment, drawn with thin lines.
    • cream, on the largest garment A warm pale ground for small strong colours.
    • ivory with a thin gold edge Edge the main garment with a single bright line.
    • lemon, on laces and cords Thin bright lines against plain cloth.
    • pale green, on the inner layer A quiet colour that shows at the neck and wrists.
    • pale grey everywhere, with one spot of a colour you choose Decide where the spot goes before you start.
    • pale pink, on the cheeks and the item The same soft colour in two places.
    • pearl, on anything round Beads, buttons and earrings share a soft shine.
    • sand, on the outer layer Coats and cloaks stay pale and the clothes under them go darker.
    • silver white, on stars and sparkles Use it for every glint in the picture.
    • white, as one streak in the hair A single pale lock near the face.
    • white, on the collar, cuffs and socks Three clean points that make the rest look neat.

    Dark and metal 15

    • black and white stripes, on one item only Socks, a scarf or a sleeve. Never two of them.
    • black with one neon line A single bright edge on a dark outfit.
    • black, on the outer layer only A dark shell over a lighter inside.
    • bronze, on a badge or emblem One raised shape with a dull shine.
    • charcoal with brass buttons Dull cloth and small warm lights.
    • copper, on buckles and rivets Warm dots at every joint.
    • deep purple, on a lining that shows when they move Flash it once, at a swinging hem.
    • forest green, on the cape or coat One large dark shape behind the figure.
    • gold, on one earring or pin The smallest bright thing on the figure.
    • gunmetal, on tools and fastenings Hard dark shines on a soft outfit.
    • ink blue, on the fingertips and cuffs As if they had been writing all night.
    • midnight blue with small white stars Scatter the stars unevenly over one garment.
    • rust, on whatever is oldest The oldest thing they own has a colour of its own.
    • silver, on chains and zips Thin cold lines that cross the clothes.
    • wine red, on the collar and the cuffs A dark accent that reads as formal.

    How this list was compiled: Original list written for Draw This Next, September 2026. Every entry is one color and the places it repeats, written to follow the words "Color accent". The notes are our own design advice. No series, studio, publisher, magazine or character is named, no entry gives an age, and nothing revealing is on the list. Licence: own work

    How it works

    Each result is a design brief for an original character in anime style: a kendo club captain, long hair tucked into the collar, one eyebrow twitching. It names no series and copies no existing character.

    Read the full guide

    Use it as an anime outfit generator

    Six parts lock separately. Lock role, hair, face, item and accent, then keep pressing. Only the outfit changes, from a gakuran worn open to a happi coat with a big crest on the back.

    Read the conventions

    Anime design is shorthand. An ahoge is one strand that sticks out from the rest, a hime cut has cheek-length sidelocks and a straight fringe, and a sweat drop on the brow stands for dismay. The lists under the tool explain each term beside its entry.

    • Fill the hair shape in black. If the outline alone says who it is, keep it.
    • Use the accent colour in three places at most.
    • Print 30 and design a whole class, one line for each student.

    Questions and answers

    Does it copy characters from a real anime?

    No. It invents a character and names none. No series, studio or existing character is on any list, so a result is yours to post as your own design. The terms are general ones, such as twin tails and gakuran.

    Can I use it as a random anime character description generator?

    Yes. Each result reads as a description in six lines: role, hair, face, outfit, item and colour accent. Copy the lines into a character sheet, then add a name and a history of your own.

    What do ahoge and odango mean?

    An ahoge is a single strand that sticks out at its own angle, away from the rest of the hair. Odango is a pair of buns. Each Japanese term on the lists was checked against its Wikipedia article and is explained in the note beside it.

    Can I get only school outfits?

    No. The tool deals from the whole of each list and cannot filter by group. Lock the outfit when a school uniform comes up, then keep pressing for the other five parts.

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