A Big Smile

Close-up cartoon face with blue skin, large eyes, and an open mouth showing teeth, with the words “Good Teeth” written inside on a red background

Some drawings are all about expression.

This cartoon monster face focuses on one thing—a wide, exaggerated mouth that takes over almost the entire character. When you push a single feature this far, it becomes the story.

The eyes are large and reflective, but they sit back and let the mouth do the work. There’s a softness in them that contrasts with what’s happening below, keeping the character from feeling too intense.

The nose is simple and centered, acting as a bridge between the top and bottom halves of the face. It keeps everything connected, even with the scale pushed so far.

Then there’s the mouth.
Wide, stretched, and filled with uneven teeth, it immediately grabs attention. The shapes are simple, but the repetition gives them rhythm. Some teeth are larger, some smaller, and that variation keeps the drawing from feeling stiff.
Inside the mouth is where things shift.

The words “Good Teeth” turn the drawing into something more playful and unexpected. It adds a bit of humor and gives the viewer something to discover after that first glance. Instead of just being a face, it becomes a small idea.

Color helps reinforce that feeling. The reds inside the mouth create contrast and draw your eye inward, while the cooler tones of the face keep everything balanced. Nothing feels accidental, even though the drawing stays loose.
Watercolor softens the edges just enough to keep the character approachable. The lines stay bold, but the color settles into the paper, giving everything a more natural feel.

Some drawings are about getting things right.
This one is about making something memorable.

Draw With Me

I teach live online drawing classes where kids build confidence by creating bold, imaginative characters like this one.

Parents can explore classes and get started here (includes a first-time student coupon):

https://outschool.com/teachers/Dustin-Carlton?signup=true&usid=qA1G7fA1⁠

For students who want consistent practice, the Draw Every Day Daily Drawing Club is a calm and supportive space to keep creating:

https://outschool.com/classes/draw-every-day-a-calm-daily-drawing-club-to-build-confidence-prNDyUXM

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