Celebrating the Launch of Hedgehog Watch, A “How To’ Draw a Hedgehog & Creative Bubbles Avant-premières.

Hedgehog Watch is where you can step into the world of British hedgehogs, caught on camera. And it’s not all about hedgehogs either. Foxes, cats, mice and birds all make appearances. If you’ve ever wondered what tiptoes through your garden once you’ve gone to bed, you’re in good company. The antics are too funny.

Pure Curiosity

Pure curiosity prompted me to set up a small, motion-triggered Ring camera. I wanted to capture what might be visiting during the small hours. Honestly, I was curious about the day visits too. What came back was surprisingly touching. Hedgehogs were getting up to all sorts. They cautiously checked out the food I’d put down. They curled up at lightning speed mid-meal at the sight of another animal. They trotted up to a large saucer that serves as a water bowl (and swimming pool on hot days). It’s everyday wildlife and it quite intimate and magical too.

If you’re lucky enough to spot a hedgehog, there’s something wonderful about their shuffles. They’re shy, snuffly, and, to me, full of character. Do check out the descriptions on You Tube as I explain what’s going on (behaviour and reactions).

We think we have three hedgehogs, the one with a darker snout is Herbert. The one with a paler snout is Herbert and the one with patches on his back is Herbert. In that sense I’m like Picasso and his mum with their 25 cats, all called Sam.

How to Paint a Hedgehog

Drawing a hedgehog is easier than you might think, especially when you break it down into simple stages. If you’re new to art, this guide walks you through each step. It’s perfect if you’re just in the mood for something soft and spiky. You can paint your own little hedgehog.

Sketch the Basic Shapes

Start with a simple oval for the body and a triangle for the snout. You’re not aiming for perfection here, just a rough framework to guide the shape.

Refine the Outline

Now refine your sketch into a clearer outline. Round out the edges and soften the snout into a more natural shape. This will become your hedgehog’s silhouette.

Block in Base Colour

Fill in the body using a warm flat brown. Add a dark nose and a small black dot for the eye. Keep things simple here, you’re laying the groundwork.

Add a Glint to the Eye

Add a small white dot to the hedgehog’s eye and another to its nose. These small details will bring your hedgehog to life and a bit of soul.

Add the Spines, a Smile & Soft Belly Fur

Use flicked strokes in layered shades of ochre. Apply grey and deep brown to begin adding the hedgehog’s spines. Try to keep them going along the hedgehog’s body from head to tail and gently sloping. Don’t forget the belly fur in a lighter shade. It often sticks out like a crinoline. Finish the face with a little smile and some whiskers from the nose.

Don’t Forget the Legs

Add four small legs underneath. This will help your hedgehog feel grounded. It will also be ready to scurry off into the undergrowth.

Voilà, Your Hedgehog is Done

And there you have it, your own little masterpiece, full of character and charm. You can stop here or build a scene with a few blades of grass or if you still have the energy add a couple more hedgehogs. I don’t know why but three subjects often feels right. I hope you enjoy this process and that it brings you some creative joy.

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