Cryptid Creatures: Learn to Draw Mysterious Beasts from Around the World

by Ballyraven

Learn how to draw a multitude of menacing monsters, creepy cryptids, and gruesome ghouls in this step-by-step drawing guide.

Shh. Did you hear that? That must have just been the wind rustling the leaves of the trees overhead—or could it have been Bigfoot?

(Definitely Bigfoot.)

Cryptids are animals whose legends are spread far and wide at slumber parties, sleepaway campfires, or on internet webpages you stumble across at 2 a.m. Their existence has never been confirmed by science but that doesn’t make them any less fascinating! In Cryptid Creatures, learn how to draw 35 different types of cryptids from all around the world and pick up a thing or two about their origins as well.

For artists of all skill levels, this step-by-step drawing book will show you how to sketch basic shapes and forms as well as use shading techniques to help your drawings come alive. Learn to draw such creatures as:
-Bigfoot, aka Sasquatch, the iconic cryptid said to inhabit the Pacific Northwest of North America
-The Loch Ness Monster, the underwater sea creature said to lurk in the depths of Scotland’s Loch Ness. Affectionately known as Nessie.
-The Mongolian Death Worm, a gigantic worm that allegedly lives in the most remote reaches of the Gobi Desert. Probably wants a friend.
-The Bunyip, a creature of ambiguous description stated to haunt bodies of water in Australia.
-Mothman, the classic harbinger of doom.
. . . And more!

This book also provides guidance on cryptid anatomy so you can create your own, unique cryptids. With both drawing instruction and tales of global folklore to engage your mind, Cryptid Creatures will transport you to a world of shadows and spookiness that will have you producing "realistic" illustrations with a touch of the fantastical in no time flat.

192 pages, Paperback

Published August 5, 2025

About the author

Ballyraven is an Appalachian illustrator who loves nature and monsters. A traditional artist, she predominantly works with pencils, dip pens, and inks to create wildlife field sketches, medieval bestiary pages, and other art for books, games, and cryptid enthusiasts. Through her work, she shares her love for prehistory, science, fantasy, and all things creepy. Ballyraven not only draws but also writes books and hosts a podcast—all focused on cryptids, myths, and the paranormal.

Reviews

[Whitney Yadon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! Beautiful and easy to follow instructions this book is both fun and informative. Not only do you get to learn how to draw several different creatures but you get to learn about them as well. I was excited to learn more about creatures I've never heard of like the Uktena, the Chickcharney, and the Wolfertiner. You can absolutely tell that Balleyraven put so much love and care into this book.

Perfect for aspiring artist and cryptid enthusiast alike!

[Horror DNA · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to begin this review with a severe disclaimer. I would not refer to myself as someone who can draw. I can paint a little, but I just can’t draw. You tell me to draw a circle? I draw a potato. You tell me to draw a straight line? I draw an electrocardiogram. You tell me to draw Mothman? I draw a mothball. Therefore, I was excited to dig into Cryptid Creatures: Learn How to Draw Mysterious Beasts from Around the World, a cryptid drawing tutorial book – because if I can draw it, so can the average 7-year-old.

Authored by Ballyraven, the blue cryptid-hunting magical bird alter ego of an Appalachian illustrator named Kristen, Cryptid Creatures promises aspiring artists 35 step-by-step tutorials to draw cryptids, hoax creatures, prehistoric animals, and more.

You can read Kat's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.

[Cassius Cae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember checking out “learn to draw” books from the library when I was little and they are nothing less than miraculous today. For someone who cannot draw to save my life, seeing a drawing of my own is the best feeling ever! Just as it was when I was young. I loved the creepy stuff, and they’re all broken down into bite size steps that make it easy. So much fun!

[Daniel Hardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun book. some of the tutorials were pretty vague, but the trivia and variety of creatures made up for that.