Step 3. As a guide for little form and depth we can loosely sketch in the vertebrae and the rib cage. Next we can add some skeletal or stick figure arms and legs, using our shoulders and hips as a starting point. We can then draw small circles for where the joints might be.

Try to avoid drawing straight lines. Bones, especially the femur and humerus which tend to be gently curved to accommodate the muscles.

Step 4. Our rough drawing is now ready to have some muscle tone and bulk added to the skeleton. Using our soft 6B pencil softy begin to 'flesh out' the bones, remember - Raptors had strong muscular legs for jumping, and thick neck muscles for pulling down their prey.

It's at this stage we can alter the position of the limbs or head if we don't like them, I've lengthened the tail which was a little stubby. Start sketching very gently at first, gradually picking out the lines that you like, and strengthening them, by applying a little more pressure each time.

©DAV!Z CARtOONS 1998