B3z4r1u5 asked me how to draw dragon scales, so here you go ^^ It's just a simple quick sketch though. Not many types either, but these are the basic scale shapes and forms. I'll briefly explain each type.
Scale shape
There are many different types of scale shapes, I think I've explained how to get them and draw them, mostly by looking at animals' hides. I've given some examples of scale shapes in my sketch. Remember that any scale shape can mix and match with any scale texture and scale pattern which will be explained below.
Scale textures (on the right hand side of sketch)
1. Grooves radiating from centre
Not all scales are smooth, some have these things called grooves running along them. Imagine a corrugated zinc roof, yes, it looks like that, but a much smaller scale. This type has grooves radiating from the centre of the scale, and is a popular choice for drawing sea serpents, because they have some sort of aquatic feel to them. Or is that just me? XD
2. Smooth scales
Well, smooth scales are.... Smooth? XD No texture on them, but can be curved and slightly bumpy according to species. Aquatic dragons and such like to have smooth scales to reduce the water friction when they swim. Other 'elegant' dragon species may have them too (when you want to give the dragon an 'elegant' look).
3. Parallel grooves
These are ones with grooves running in straight parallel lines along the scale. Really, any dragon can have them XD Its up to you to choose.
4. Bumpy, pointy scales with irregular texture
I didn't draw this nicely enough. It looks bad. But anyways, you get the point - their texture is pretty much a mix of anything. They can even have small spikes on them. Heavily armoured dragons usually have this sort of hide, so when they ram into opponents, they get spiked terribly. Yes.... XD
Some notes...
★ Dragon scales are usually thick and heavy for improved defense, though there can be exceptions. And, not all dragons are scales. Some can be furry or leathery.
★ When shading, take into account the texture style and direction of light. Remember that scales DO NOT lie flat on the dragon's body.
Scale patterns (on the left hand side of sketch)
1. Sharp and Jagged pattern
This pattern is made up of pointy scales. It makes the dragon look crisp and sharp and deadly.
2. Irregularly shaped pattern
These patterns are favoured when drawing dragons that are fiery or volcanic. It gives the dragon a craggy and badass look.
3. Smooth pattern
This pattern is the classic one and simplest to draw, in my opinion. It gives the dragon a 'smooth and classy' look. The size of the scales need not be uniform though, you can change the size of each individual scale if you prefer something not so organised looking (I usually do that XD)
★ Feel free to mix and mash up the patterns and textures. One dragon can have all the above scale features for all we know XD It's up to your imagination ^^
Ok, that should be all for now. If any of you have questions, feel free to ask me ^^
~SaitheVivana
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