Armor drawing is a popular art form that has been around for centuries. It involves creating intricate designs of armor using various materials like pencils, pens, and markers. Armor drawing is not only a fun hobby but also a great way to improve your artistic skills. With the right guidance, anyone can learn to draw armor and create stunning designs.
In this article, we will explore 21 armor drawing ideas that will inspire and challenge you. From medieval knights to futuristic robots, we will cover a wide range of armor designs that will suit different skill levels and interests. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, these ideas will help you expand your creativity and take your armor drawing skills to the next level. So, grab your drawing tools and get ready to explore the exciting world of armor drawing!
1) Knight’s Plate Armor
Knight’s Plate Armor is a type of armor that was worn by knights during the medieval period. It was made up of individual metal plates that were joined together with leather straps or rivets. The armor covered the entire body, including the arms and legs, and was designed to protect the wearer from all types of attacks.
The armor was made from a variety of metals, including steel, iron, and bronze. It was often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, which were meant to intimidate the enemy. The armor was also designed to be as lightweight as possible, while still providing maximum protection.
One of the key features of Knight’s Plate Armor was the helmet. The helmet was designed to protect the head and face, and often included a visor that could be raised or lowered. The helmet was also decorated with various designs and patterns, which were meant to identify the wearer as a member of a particular group or family.
Overall, Knight’s Plate Armor was an important part of medieval warfare. It provided the wearer with excellent protection, while also serving as a symbol of power and authority. Today, Knight’s Plate Armor is still admired for its beauty and craftsmanship, and is often used as inspiration for modern armor designs.
2) Samurai O-Yoroi
Samurai O-Yoroi is a type of armor that was worn by the Japanese samurai warriors during the feudal period. It is a distinctive armor that is known for its unique design and intricate details.
The O-Yoroi armor was made up of several pieces, including a helmet, cuirass, and leg guards. The helmet was designed to protect the head and face of the wearer, while the cuirass protected the torso. The leg guards offered protection to the thighs and shins.
The armor was made from a variety of materials, including leather, iron, and silk. It was designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with intricate designs and patterns adorning the surface.
The O-Yoroi armor was a symbol of the samurai warrior’s status and power. It was worn by the most elite samurai warriors, and its design often reflected the rank and status of the wearer.
Overall, the Samurai O-Yoroi is a unique and fascinating piece of armor that is steeped in history and tradition. Its intricate design and functional construction make it a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the samurai warriors who wore it.
3) Roman Lorica Segmentata
The Roman Lorica Segmentata is a type of segmented armor that was used by the Roman Empire between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. It was made up of small metal plates, called segments, that were attached to leather straps. The segments were arranged in horizontal rows, with each row overlapping the one below it.
This type of armor was designed to provide good protection while still allowing for flexibility and ease of movement. It was also relatively lightweight, which made it easier for soldiers to wear and maneuver in battle.
The Lorica Segmentata was used by Roman soldiers of all ranks, from legionaries to officers. It was particularly popular among legionaries, who were the backbone of the Roman army. The armor was also used by gladiators, who were often depicted wearing it in Roman art.
Today, the Lorica Segmentata is a popular subject for artists and designers who are interested in ancient Roman culture. It is often depicted in drawings and other artwork, and is sometimes recreated for use in historical reenactments. Its unique design and historical significance make it a fascinating piece of armor that continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.
4) Viking Chainmail
Viking chainmail is a type of armor that was commonly used by the Viking warriors during the medieval period. It is made up of interlocking rings of metal that cover the body, providing protection against weapons such as swords and arrows.
The rings used to make Viking chainmail were typically made of iron or steel, and were woven together by skilled craftsmen. The resulting armor was both flexible and durable, allowing the wearer to move freely while also providing excellent protection.
One of the key features of Viking chainmail is its distinctive appearance. The interlocking rings create a textured surface that is both visually striking and functional. The texture of the armor could help to deflect blows from weapons, making it more difficult for an opponent to land a successful strike.
Overall, Viking chainmail is a highly effective form of armor that has stood the test of time. Its durability, flexibility, and distinctive appearance make it a popular choice for reenactors and historical enthusiasts alike.
5) Spartan Bronze Cuirass
The Spartan Bronze Cuirass is a type of armor that was worn by ancient Greek warriors, particularly the Spartans. It was made of bronze and consisted of two parts: the breastplate and the backplate. The breastplate covered the chest and the backplate covered the back, with straps connecting the two pieces at the shoulders and sides.
The Spartan Bronze Cuirass was designed to provide maximum protection to the wearer while also allowing for flexibility and mobility in battle. The bronze material was strong and durable, able to withstand blows from swords and spears. The armor was also designed to fit snugly to the body, reducing the risk of injury from impact.
In addition to its functional benefits, the Spartan Bronze Cuirass was also a symbol of status and honor. It was often decorated with intricate designs and symbols, such as the Greek letter lambda, which was the symbol of the Spartan army.
Today, the Spartan Bronze Cuirass is a popular inspiration for armor drawing ideas. Its unique design and historical significance make it a fascinating subject for artists and history enthusiasts alike.
6) Gothic Full Plate
Gothic Full Plate armor is a type of armor that was popular in the late medieval period. This type of armor was worn by knights and soldiers who wanted to protect themselves from the dangers of battle.
Gothic Full Plate armor is made up of several pieces, including a breastplate, backplate, gauntlets, and greaves. The armor is designed to cover the entire body, providing maximum protection to the wearer.
One of the unique features of Gothic Full Plate armor is the decorative elements that are often included in the design. These elements can include etchings, engravings, and other decorative elements that make the armor stand out.
Despite its weight and bulk, Gothic Full Plate armor was highly effective in battle. It provided excellent protection against swords, arrows, and other weapons, making it a popular choice among knights and soldiers.
Today, Gothic Full Plate armor is often used in historical reenactments and as a display piece in museums. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a fascinating piece of armor that continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.
7) Crusader Surcoat
A Crusader Surcoat was a type of tunic that was worn over a suit of armor during the Crusades. It was typically made of linen or wool and featured a large cross on the front and back. This symbolized the wearer’s commitment to the Christian faith and their participation in the Crusades.
The Crusader Surcoat was an important piece of armor because it not only provided additional protection, but it also helped to identify the wearer as a Crusader. This was particularly important during battles when it could be difficult to distinguish between friend and foe.
In addition to its practical uses, the Crusader Surcoat was also a symbol of status and honor. It was often decorated with intricate embroidery or other embellishments, which demonstrated the wearer’s wealth and social standing.
Today, the Crusader Surcoat is still a popular subject for artists and illustrators. Its distinctive design and historical significance make it a fascinating piece of medieval armor to study and recreate.
8) Mongol Lamellar Armor
Mongol Lamellar Armor is a type of armor that was used by the Mongol Empire during the 13th and 14th centuries. It is made up of small rectangular or square plates of iron or leather that are laced together with leather or silk cords. The plates are arranged in rows, with each row overlapping the one below it. This creates a flexible, yet strong armor that can protect the wearer from both cutting and blunt force attacks.
The armor was worn by both the Mongol cavalry and infantry. It was particularly effective against arrows, which were the primary weapon of many of the Mongols’ enemies. The overlapping plates would cause arrows to glance off the armor, rather than penetrating it. The armor was also effective against slashing attacks, as the plates could absorb the force of the blow.
Mongol Lamellar Armor was relatively lightweight and allowed for ease of movement, which was important for the Mongol cavalry. It was also relatively easy to produce, which allowed for large quantities to be made quickly. This made it an ideal armor for the Mongol Empire, which was constantly expanding and needed to equip large armies.
Today, Mongol Lamellar Armor is still used in some traditional Mongolian ceremonies and festivals. It is also popular among historical reenactors and collectors.
9) Persian Sparabara
The Persian Sparabara were a group of ancient Persian soldiers who served as the main infantry force of the Achaemenid Empire. They were highly trained and equipped with a variety of weapons, including spears, swords, and bows.
The Sparabara were known for their discipline and bravery in battle, and were often used to form the front lines of Persian armies. They were also skilled in the use of shields, which they used to protect themselves and their fellow soldiers from enemy attacks.
One of the most notable battles in which the Sparabara fought was the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC, where they played a key role in the Persian defeat at the hands of the Athenians. Despite this setback, the Sparabara continued to serve as an important part of the Persian military for many years, and were instrumental in many of the empire’s military victories.
Overall, the Persian Sparabara were a highly skilled and respected group of soldiers, who played a vital role in the military successes of the Achaemenid Empire.
10) Aztec Jaguar Warrior Suit
The Aztec Jaguar Warrior Suit is a formidable armor drawing idea that has been inspired by the ancient Aztec civilization. The suit is known for its intricate design and the use of jaguar motifs, which were revered by the Aztecs as symbols of strength and power.
The armor is made up of various components, including a helmet, chest plate, arm guards, and leg guards. The helmet is designed to resemble the head of a jaguar, with the ears and snout protruding from the top and front of the helmet. The chest plate is adorned with jaguar motifs and is designed to protect the warrior’s torso.
The arm guards and leg guards are also decorated with jaguar motifs and are designed to provide protection to the warrior’s limbs. The armor is typically made from materials such as leather, feathers, and metal, and is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Overall, the Aztec Jaguar Warrior Suit is a unique and impressive armor drawing idea that is sure to capture the attention of anyone who sees it. Its intricate design and use of jaguar motifs make it a truly distinctive piece of armor that is steeped in history and tradition.
11) Egyptian Scale Armor
Egyptian Scale Armor is a type of armor that was commonly used in ancient Egypt. It was made by attaching small metal scales to a fabric or leather backing, forming a protective layer. The scales were usually made of bronze or iron and were arranged in overlapping rows, creating a flexible and durable armor.
This type of armor was worn by soldiers, charioteers, and even pharaohs. It was highly effective in protecting the wearer from slashing and piercing attacks, while also allowing for mobility and flexibility in battle.
The design of Egyptian Scale Armor was influenced by the natural world, with many scales resembling the shape of fish scales or crocodile scales. The scales were often decorated with intricate designs or symbols, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the armor.
Today, Egyptian Scale Armor is still admired for its unique design and historical significance. Many museums and historical reenactors feature replicas of this ancient armor, providing a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt.
12) Byzantine Klivanion
The Byzantine Klivanion is a type of armor that was used by the Byzantine Empire during the medieval period. It was a full-body armor that covered the wearer from head to toe and was made of metal plates that were connected by leather or cloth straps.
The Klivanion was designed to provide maximum protection to the wearer while still allowing for mobility. It was often worn by cavalry soldiers who needed to be able to move quickly on horseback.
One of the unique features of the Byzantine Klivanion was its use of lamellar armor, which consisted of small metal plates that were laced together to form a flexible and lightweight protective layer. This allowed the armor to be more comfortable and less cumbersome than other types of full-body armor.
The Byzantine Klivanion was also decorated with intricate designs and patterns, which served both a functional and aesthetic purpose. The designs helped to reinforce the armor and make it stronger, while also making it more visually appealing.
Overall, the Byzantine Klivanion was a highly effective and versatile type of armor that played an important role in the military history of the Byzantine Empire. Its unique design and use of lamellar armor made it a popular choice among cavalry soldiers, and its intricate decorations made it a symbol of Byzantine military might and cultural sophistication.
13) Norman Hauberk
Norman Hauberk is a type of armor that was used during the medieval period. It was made of chainmail and was worn by knights for protection during battles. The Norman Hauberk was a popular armor as it provided good protection and was relatively lightweight.
The armor was made of interlocking rings of steel that were woven together to form a shirt-like garment. It covered the torso and arms of the wearer and was usually worn over a padded garment for added protection. The Norman Hauberk was designed to be flexible and allowed for ease of movement during combat.
One of the unique features of the Norman Hauberk was the use of a coif or hood that protected the head and neck of the wearer. This was an important addition as it provided protection to vulnerable areas of the body. The Norman Hauberk was also designed to be worn with other types of armor such as a helmet, shield, and leg armor.
Overall, the Norman Hauberk was an effective armor that provided good protection to knights during battles. Its design allowed for ease of movement while also providing protection to vulnerable areas of the body.
14) Chinese Brigandine
Chinese Brigandine is a type of armor that was popular in China during the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD). It was made of small rectangular or square metal plates, which were sewn onto a fabric or leather backing. The armor provided good protection against slashing attacks, but was less effective against thrusting attacks.
The Chinese Brigandine was commonly worn by foot soldiers and cavalrymen. It was relatively lightweight and flexible, which made it suitable for use in battle. The armor was also affordable and easy to produce, which contributed to its popularity.
One notable feature of the Chinese Brigandine was its overlapping design. The metal plates were arranged in rows, with each row overlapping the previous one. This provided additional protection to the wearer, as it made it difficult for weapons to penetrate the armor.
Overall, the Chinese Brigandine was a practical and effective type of armor. It was widely used in China during the Song dynasty, and continued to be used in other parts of the world for many centuries.
15) Ottoman Mirror Armor
Ottoman Mirror Armor is a type of armor that was worn by the Ottoman Empire’s elite soldiers in the 16th and 17th centuries. This armor was made of steel and featured a unique design that incorporated reflective surfaces, such as polished steel or mirrors.
The reflective surfaces of the armor were not just for aesthetic purposes, but they also served a practical function. The mirrors allowed the soldiers to see their surroundings without turning their heads, which was particularly useful in battle.
The Ottoman Mirror Armor was also designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing the soldiers to move quickly and easily on the battlefield. Despite its lightweight construction, the armor was still highly effective at protecting the wearer from enemy attacks.
Today, Ottoman Mirror Armor is considered a rare and valuable piece of historical armor. Some examples can be found in museums and private collections around the world. The unique design and historical significance of this armor make it a fascinating subject for armor enthusiasts and historians alike.
16) Indian Churidar Armor
Indian Churidar Armor is a traditional armor worn in India. It is a type of leg armor that covers the lower part of the body, including the thighs, knees, and calves. The armor is made of metal plates or leather and is designed to protect the legs from attacks.
The Churidar Armor is usually worn with other armor pieces, such as a helmet, chest plate, and arm guards. It was commonly used by Indian warriors during battles and wars in ancient times. The armor is still used today in some parts of India for cultural events and performances.
The design of the Churidar Armor is unique and intricate, featuring detailed engravings and patterns. The armor also has a distinctive shape, with a flared bottom that resembles the traditional Indian pants called “churidar.”
Overall, the Indian Churidar Armor is a fascinating piece of traditional Indian armor that showcases the rich history and culture of India. Its unique design and functionality make it a valuable addition to any armor collection or historical display.
17) Greek Linothorax
The Greek Linothorax is a type of armor that was widely used in ancient Greece. It was made of multiple layers of linen fabric that were glued together with animal glue. The layers of linen provided protection against arrows and swords, while the glue made the armor resistant to water.
The Greek Linothorax was a popular choice among Greek soldiers because it was lightweight and flexible. This allowed soldiers to move more freely on the battlefield and engage in close combat. The armor was also relatively inexpensive to produce, making it accessible to a wider range of soldiers.
Despite its popularity, the Greek Linothorax had its limitations. It was not as effective against heavy weapons such as maces and axes, and it provided little protection against blunt force trauma. Additionally, the armor was susceptible to wear and tear, and needed to be replaced frequently.
Overall, the Greek Linothorax was an important piece of armor in ancient Greece. Its lightweight and flexible design made it a popular choice among soldiers, and its affordability allowed it to be widely used. However, its limitations in terms of protection highlight the importance of having a variety of armor options on the battlefield.
18) Celtic Ring Mail
Celtic Ring Mail is a type of armor that was used by the ancient Celts. It is made up of interlocking rings of metal that are woven together to form a protective layer. The rings are typically made of iron or steel, and are designed to be flexible and lightweight.
One of the unique features of Celtic Ring Mail is its intricate design. The rings are woven together in a way that creates a distinctive pattern, which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the armor. This design also helps to distribute the weight of the armor evenly across the body, making it more comfortable to wear.
Celtic Ring Mail was commonly used by Celtic warriors during battles. It provided excellent protection against slashing and piercing attacks, and was particularly effective against arrows and spears. The armor was also relatively easy to repair, as damaged rings could be easily replaced.
Despite its effectiveness, Celtic Ring Mail was eventually replaced by other types of armor, such as plate armor. However, it remains a popular choice for reenactments and historical displays, and is admired for its unique design and historical significance.
19) Macedonian Phalanx Shield
The Macedonian Phalanx Shield was an essential component of the ancient Greek warfare. The Macedonian army was famous for its phalanx formation, which was a tightly packed formation of soldiers carrying long spears and shields. The shields were made of wood and covered in bronze, providing excellent protection against enemy attacks.
The Macedonian Phalanx Shield was a large, round shield that measured around 3 feet in diameter. It was made from several layers of wood that were glued together and covered in bronze. The shield was heavy, weighing around 20 pounds, but it provided excellent protection for the soldier carrying it.
The shield was designed to be used in conjunction with the long spear, which was the primary weapon of the Macedonian army. The soldiers would hold the shield with their left hand and the spear with their right hand. The shield would protect them from enemy attacks while they thrust the spear at their enemies.
Overall, the Macedonian Phalanx Shield was an essential component of the Macedonian army’s success. It provided excellent protection for the soldiers and allowed them to use their primary weapon effectively.
20) Medieval Gambeson
A gambeson is a padded jacket that was worn as armor during the medieval period. It was typically made of linen or wool and was quilted with layers of fabric to provide protection against blows from swords and other weapons.
The gambeson was an essential piece of armor for knights and soldiers during the medieval period. It was worn under chainmail or plate armor to provide an extra layer of protection. The padding of the gambeson could absorb the impact of a blow and prevent serious injury.
The design of the gambeson evolved over time, with different styles being developed for different purposes. For example, a gambeson worn by a foot soldier would be thicker and heavier than one worn by a knight on horseback.
Today, the gambeson is still used in historical reenactments and as part of medieval-inspired costumes. It is also popular among martial artists who practice historical European martial arts (HEMA).
Overall, the gambeson is an important piece of medieval armor that played a crucial role in protecting soldiers and knights during battles.
21) Renaissance Half Armor
Renaissance Half Armor is a type of armor that was popular during the Renaissance period. It was designed to protect the upper body, including the chest and arms, while allowing for greater mobility than full armor.
This type of armor was made from a combination of materials, including steel, leather, and fabric. The steel was used to create the protective plates, while the leather and fabric were used to create the straps and padding that held the armor in place.
One of the key features of Renaissance Half Armor is its decorative design. Many suits of armor from this period were adorned with intricate patterns and designs, often featuring images of animals or mythological creatures.
Despite its lighter weight, Renaissance Half Armor was still effective in battle. It provided ample protection for the wearer while allowing for greater freedom of movement than full armor.
Today, Renaissance Half Armor is often used for historical reenactments and as a display piece in museums. Its unique design and historical significance make it a fascinating piece of armor to study and appreciate.
Fundamentals of Armor Drawing
Basic Shapes and Proportions
Before attempting to draw armor, it is essential to understand the basic shapes and proportions that make up the human body. The armor must fit the body correctly, and an artist must be familiar with the underlying structure to create a convincing piece.
When drawing the human body, it is essential to use basic shapes as a foundation. The head is a circle, and the body is a series of cylinders. The arms and legs are tapered cylinders, and the hands and feet are smaller circles.
Once the basic shapes are established, the artist can begin to add details such as muscles and clothing. When drawing armor, it is essential to keep in mind the underlying shapes and proportions to ensure that the armor fits the body correctly.
Understanding Armor Types
There are many different types of armor, each with its unique style and purpose. Understanding the different types of armor is essential when drawing it.
Plate armor, for example, is made up of metal plates that cover the body. Chainmail armor is made up of interlocking metal rings. Leather armor is made up of hardened leather, and scale armor is made up of small, overlapping metal plates.
When drawing armor, it is essential to understand the purpose of the armor and the materials used to create it. This knowledge will help an artist to create a convincing piece that accurately represents the armor.
Overall, understanding the basic shapes and proportions of the human body and the different types of armor is essential when drawing armor. By using these fundamentals, an artist can create a convincing piece that accurately represents the armor and fits the body correctly.
Advanced Techniques
Detailing and Textures
When it comes to armor drawing, adding details and textures can make a huge difference in the overall look of the piece. Advanced techniques for detailing and textures include using different brush types, layering different textures, and adding highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
One effective technique for adding texture is to use a texture brush, which can be found in most digital art software programs. These brushes can be used to create a variety of textures, such as metal, leather, or fabric. Layering different textures can also create a more realistic look, such as adding scratches or dents to a metal surface.
Adding highlights and shadows can make the armor look more three-dimensional. This can be achieved by using a combination of brush types and adjusting the opacity and layer settings. For example, using a soft brush with low opacity can create a subtle highlight, while using a hard brush with high opacity can create a more defined shadow.
Dynamic Poses
Drawing armor in dynamic poses can add excitement and movement to the piece. Advanced techniques for dynamic poses include understanding anatomy and perspective, using reference images, and experimenting with different angles and poses.
Understanding anatomy and perspective is crucial for creating dynamic poses. This includes knowing how the body moves and how different parts of the body are connected. Using reference images can also help with understanding anatomy and perspective, as well as providing inspiration for different poses.
Experimenting with different angles and poses can help create a more dynamic look. This can include using foreshortening, which is a technique that makes objects appear closer or larger than they actually are. It can also include experimenting with different camera angles, such as a low-angle shot to make the armor look more imposing.
By using these advanced techniques for detailing and textures, as well as dynamic poses, artists can take their armor drawing to the next level.
Historical and Fantasy Armor
Medieval Armor
Medieval armor was designed to protect knights and soldiers during battles. It was made of various materials such as metal, leather, and chain mail. The armor was crafted to fit the body of the wearer, providing maximum protection without hindering their movement.
One of the most common types of medieval armor was the plate armor. This armor was made of metal plates that were linked together using leather straps. It covered the entire body of the wearer, including the arms and legs. Plate armor was heavy and provided excellent protection against sword strikes and arrows.
Another type of medieval armor was the chain mail. This armor was made of interlocking metal rings and was lighter than plate armor. Chain mail was flexible and provided good protection against sword strikes.
Fantasy Armor Design
Fantasy armor design is a popular subject among artists and designers. It is often inspired by medieval armor but includes elements of fantasy and imagination. Fantasy armor can be made of various materials such as metal, leather, and even magical substances.
One of the most popular types of fantasy armor is the dragon scale armor. This armor is made of dragon scales and provides excellent protection against fire and other magical attacks. It is often worn by dragon slayers and other fantasy heroes.
Another popular type of fantasy armor is the elven armor. This armor is light and flexible, allowing the wearer to move quickly and easily. It is often decorated with intricate designs and symbols, reflecting the elegance and grace of the elves.
Overall, historical and fantasy armor provide endless inspiration for artists and designers. Whether it is the practicality and strength of medieval armor or the creativity and imagination of fantasy armor, armor drawing ideas are sure to captivate and inspire.