Black marker sketch of a crab with a broad shell, two raised claws, and four walking legs on each side on textured off-white paper.
Drawing referenceAbout reference use

A crab with two raised claws

Start with a broad crab shell, then practice repeating simple bent legs and two open claws. Small joint accents are enough to make the parts readable.

AnimalsEasyMarker15 min, at your pace
Save reference

A way into the drawing

  1. Draw the broad shell

    Sketch a low oval with a slight dip at the front. Place two short eye stalks along its front edge.

  2. Count the legs and claws

    Add four bent walking legs on each side, then two raised claw arms. Give each pincer a clear opening.

  3. Clarify a few joints

    Add a shell crease and short mouth marks. Put small gray accents at overlaps rather than shading every leg.

A small thing to tryCount the walking legs separately from the two claw arms before adding any small details.