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Step 15: Use the initial lines and shapes as guides to draw the chameleon's body. Simply follow the path of the lines as you darken the shape of the body. Darken small triangle-like shapes under the head and on the back for the serrated spikes along the body.
Step 16: Now draw the chameleon's tail. Use the spiral line on the left as a guide to draw it. Make the tail thicker as you follow the path of the swirl. The two lines that make up the shape of the tail turn into one toward the end. Pay close attention to get the shape of the tail correct, as it can get tricky.
Step 17 (optional): For a cleaner look, erase as much as you can of the initial guide lines. Don't worry about erasing all of the guides. It's okay to leave some behind. Also re-draw any final sketch lines that you may have accidentally erased.
Final Step (optional): Add some shading to your chameleon drawing to give it more dimension and volume. Pick the direction of the light source when shading so that the shadows are consistent with the light source. Vary the pressure on your pencil to get different degrees of tonal value. Don't worry about shading too smoothly. Chameleons have scaly skin, so it's okay to have a rough texture.
Draw a cast shadow underneath. This helps ground the chameleon so it doesn't appear to be floating.
You can add more value throughout your chameleon drawing for extra detail. Different types of chameleons have different pattens on their skin. Some can even change their skin color! You can add any pattern you'd like to your chameleon drawing from spots to patches. For a striped pattern like this one, alternate from a dark value to a lighter one. If you have a pet chameleon, try to duplicate its pattern on your drawing. It's a good idea to use reference too for a more accurate chameleon drawing. Chameleons have scaly skin, so you can add random dots and scribbles all over the body for a rougher, grittier texture. Don't forget to pause the "How to Draw a Chameleon" video to draw at your own pace.
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