How to Draw a Log Cabin
Would you like to learn how to draw a log cabin? In this tutorial, I’ll show you an easy way to draw one of the most recognizable wooden buildings.
Prepare to Draw a Log Cabin
Unlike modern houses with smooth walls, a log cabin is built from individual logs stacked on top of each other.
That makes it a great subject for practicing simple architectural forms for kids. Once you understand how the logs fit together, drawing other wooden cabins becomes much easier.
We’ll start with the basic shape and gradually add the logs, roof, windows, and other details that give a log cabin its classic look.
In many ways, this lesson is similar to my house drawing tutorial, since both drawings share the same basic structure.
Easy Log Cabin Drawing Tutorial
Materials
- Pencil
- Paper
- Eraser
- Coloring supplies
Time needed: 30 minutes
How to Draw a Log Cabin
- Draw the side logs.
Consistently draw small identical circles arranged vertically.
- Depict one wall.
From the circles, draw straight lines to the sides and add semicircular lines on the left side of the drawing.
- Add another wall.
This step is similar to the previous one and here you also have to draw some straight and semicircular lines.
- Sketch out the bottom of the roof.
Use straight lines and draw the bottom of the roof in the same shape as in the example.
- Draw the rest of the roof.
Add the top and side outline of the roof. Draw thin vertical lines in front of the house.
- Depict the outline of the door.
Draw a straight line and some semicircular lines to outline the door.
- Detail the roof and draw the pipe.
Draw longitudinal and transverse lines on the roof and draw the wide pipe on the side.
- Add the rest of the elements.
Sketch out the small window to the door and the round doorknob.
- Color the drawing.
For coloring, you will need different shades of brown.
Additional Content
I’ve also prepared a free PDF version of this guide that you can download and use offline whenever you like.
It includes the main drawing steps in a compact format, along with additional materials such as a coloring page, tracing worksheet, and grid drawing worksheet.
Complete Your Log Cabin Drawing
A log cabin usually looks best as part of a larger landscape. You can place it in the middle of a forest drawing, add a few tall trees around it, or draw mountains in the distance.
Even a simple path leading to the front door can make the scene feel more interesting and complete.
Small details can also change the look of the drawing. Draw a chimney with a little smoke, a stack of firewood beside the wall, or a campfire near the cabin.
If you want to make the scene look more lively, draw a few animals, birds, or flowers around the house.
You can also change the season without changing the cabin itself. Snow on the roof creates a winter scene, while green grass and flowers make it look like spring or summer.
A few simple details are often enough to give the same drawing a completely different atmosphere.
If you’re looking for more ideas, use the search on my website to find other drawing tutorials that match your scene.
What’s Next?
A log cabin also looks great as part of a landscape. Try adding trees, mountains, or a path around it, or follow my forest drawing guide to create a simple woodland scene that completes the picture.
You can also follow the treehouse drawing guide and draw another wooden structure with a completely different design.
Don’t forget to check my social media for new guides and updates. You can also leave a comment below and tell me what you’d like me to draw next.
