Transcribing Ellipses

When we make ellipses, often it is easier to draw a rectangular shape and draw (or transcribe) an ellipse within it.

  • For this exercise, we will use our sheet from the Planes exercise.

  • In each subdivided plane, we are going to draw an ellipse.

      • Each ellipse should contact the edge of the rectangular plane at the midpoint of each side

      • Ellipses can be difficult so be sure to ghost each ellipse before committing to marking your page

      • When you mark your ellipse to the page, mark it once and then continue to draw over it a second time in one fluid motion.

Transcribe an ellipse inside each of the rectangular planes on your page. Your final page should look something like this:

Here is an example of the Transcribed Ellipse Exercise

Take 2 minutes and transcribe as many ellipses as you can in side of your 2D Planes.


This is an exercise and don't worry if your ellipses aren't perfect or hit all the midpoints of the plane's sides. Ellipses will become rounder and more accurate with practice.


Ellipses can be difficult so let's try applying our new ellipse skills in a more fluid and dynamic environment.