Celebrate the magic of fall with these 30 playful autumn doodles! Perfect for adding a whimsical touch to your sketchbook, journal, or seasonal art projects, these easy doodle ideas capture the cozy and colorful vibes of autumn. From falling leaves and pumpkins to cute woodland animals and steaming mugs of cider, these doodles are simple yet fun to create. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist looking for seasonal inspiration, these playful autumn-themed doodles will help you embrace the charm of the season with every stroke.
All artwork provided is original and can be used as a reference for your own drawings.
Table of Contents
Tiny Mushroom House

This enchanting mushroom house illustration captures a cozy autumnal mood through its warm color palette and whimsical details. The orange and yellow hues dominate, evoking the feeling of a crisp fall day. The artist has skillfully used shading and highlights to give the mushroom a three-dimensional quality, making it feel almost tangible.
What really brings this piece to life are the little touches – the glowing windows, the tiny door, and the scattered leaves. These elements invite the viewer to imagine the magical creatures that might inhabit this fairy-tale dwelling. The surrounding stars add a touch of nighttime mystery, blending the real and fantastical. Overall, the drawing strikes a beautiful balance between detail and simplicity, creating an inviting scene that sparks the imagination.
Mouse Near Pumpkin House

Looking at this delightful pumpkin house illustration, I’m struck by the intricate linework and shading. An unconventional approach to recreate this could be using coffee as a medium. The varying shades of brown in coffee stains could beautifully capture the warmth and texture of the pumpkin.
For the finer details, like the adorable mouse and delicate leaf accents, you might experiment with etching. Scraping away layers of dried coffee with a fine tool could create those crisp, lighter lines. The grassy base could be achieved by flicking coffee droplets with a toothbrush for a speckled effect. Don’t be afraid to get messy – sometimes the most interesting textures come from happy accidents!
Squirrel Holding Leaf Umbrella

The negative space in this drawing really makes the cute little squirrel pop. Those blank areas around the umbrella and falling leaves create a sense of light rain without cluttering the composition. It’s a clever way to suggest weather and atmosphere.
Looking at the technique, the artist’s use of white space is quite skillful. See how they’ve left parts of the branch and acorn untouched? That creates highlights and dimension without overworking the piece. It’s a great reminder that sometimes what you don’t draw is just as important as what you do.
I love how the negative space also emphasizes the squirrel’s fluffy fur and expressive eyes. Those untouched areas around the edges of the character make it feel soft and alive. If you’re just starting out, try leaving some white spaces in your drawings – it can really bring your subjects to life in an effortless way.
Smiling Pumpkins

The adorable expressions on the pumpkins really catch the eye here. Look at how the artist captured different personalities for each one – the big pumpkin’s serene smile, the little ones with their cheeky grins. It’s those tiny details that bring characters to life.
What I find impressive is the texture work, especially on the main pumpkin. See those subtle lines and shading? That gives it depth and a realistic feel, even in this cute style. The fall leaves scattered around add nice pops of color too. As a tip, when you’re drawing scenes like this, those little environmental touches can really set the mood.
Oh, and don’t miss that tiny critter peeking out from the stem! Including unexpected elements like that is a great way to reward viewers who look closely. It encourages people to spend more time with your art, appreciating all the little details you’ve put in.
Apple Pie Slice

This illustration has a lovely, playful style with its cute personified slice of cake. To add more texture, the artist could experiment with crosshatching techniques, especially on the cake slice itself. This would give it more depth and a sense of volume. The plate could benefit from some subtle shading lines to emphasize its curved shape.
Looking at the background elements, those autumn leaves present a great opportunity for texture. Adding some vein patterns or gentle stippling within the leaf shapes would make them pop. The artist might also consider giving the steam a bit more movement with some wispy, irregular lines. This would enhance the warm, cozy feeling the image already conveys.
Pumpkin Surrounded By Autumn Leaves

Looking at this adorable pumpkin character, the current straight-on view really showcases its cheerful expression and cozy autumn outfit. But imagine if we tilted the perspective slightly upward – it could make the pumpkin seem more imposing and grand, like an autumn king surveying its leafy domain. The scarf and falling leaves would take on more dynamic angles too.
On the flip side, a view from above might emphasize the pumpkin’s rotund shape and make it appear more vulnerable or child-like. The legs would become a focal point, potentially adding humor. Playing with shadows could also dramatically shift the mood – picture deep, long shadows stretching across the page for a moodier vibe. The key is experimenting to see how different angles can evoke distinct emotional responses from your viewers.
Pumpkin Spice Latte

The contrast in this cute mug illustration really pops, doesn’t it? The artist nailed it with that bright white whipped cream against the warm orange tones of the mug and background. It’s a simple but effective way to draw the eye right to the focal point.
I like how they balanced the strong color contrast with softer touches too. See those wispy steam lines and tiny dots? They add some delicate details without overwhelming the bold shapes. And that autumn leaf is a nice touch – its sharp edges and rich color provide another bit of contrast against the rounded mug and fluffy cream.
The mug’s adorable face is subtle but important for the contrast as well. Those simple black dots and curve stand out just enough against the orange to give it personality. Overall, it’s a great example of using contrast strategically to create a striking yet harmonious image. Nicely done!
Raccoon Sitting On Pumpkin

The raccoon’s pose is adorable, but we could amp up the energy. How about having it mid-leap onto the pumpkin? Imagine its little paws outstretched, tail swishing behind for balance. That sense of motion would really bring the scene to life.
Those autumn leaves could use some movement too. Try scattering them as if caught in a gust of wind, swirling around the raccoon. Maybe even add some motion lines to emphasize their path. The pumpkin itself could be tilted slightly, as if the raccoon’s impact is tipping it. These small tweaks can create a more dynamic composition overall.
Colors play a big role in energy too. While the current palette is lovely, consider punching up the contrast. Deeper shadows on the raccoon’s fur or brighter highlights on the pumpkin could add visual interest. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate – sometimes a touch of the unrealistic is what gives art that extra spark.
Leaf Dancing Through The Wind

This playful autumn leaf illustration has a lot of potential for adaptation into different media. I can easily envision it as a vibrant watercolor piece, allowing the orange and yellow hues to blend and create a softer, more organic feel. The delicate veins of the leaf would lend themselves beautifully to the translucent nature of watercolors.
For a bolder approach, you might consider translating this into a linocut print. The strong outline and simple shapes would work well for carving, and you could play with layering different colors to achieve that gradient effect from yellow to deep orange. The scattered smaller leaves could make interesting negative space elements. Going in a completely different direction, this cheerful leaf character could make an adorable stuffed toy or felt appliqué, bringing it into the three-dimensional realm. The arms and legs would be fun to exaggerate in a plush form.
Joyful Maple Leaf

The artist has really embraced repetition in this charming autumn leaf illustration. Look at how they’ve echoed the main maple leaf’s shape with smaller falling leaves scattered around it. That creates a nice visual rhythm and ties the whole composition together.
Those curved lines and spots on the big leaf are another great example of pattern use. They add texture and interest without overwhelming the simple design. And did you notice how the artist repeated those little curved lines in the background too? It’s subtle, but it gives a sense of movement, like a breeze blowing through.
I like how they’ve balanced the warm oranges and yellows with touches of black for definition. Those facial features on the leaf are a fun, unexpected touch. Overall, it’s a skillful use of repeating elements to create a cohesive, lively autumn scene. Nice work capturing that playful fall feeling!
Happy Scarecrow

The vibrant scarecrow figure immediately draws the eye. Its cheerful expression and outstretched arms create a warm, inviting focal point. The patchwork purple coat and straw-like hair add wonderful texture and character.
Those colorful pumpkins at the base are a great touch. They ground the scene and provide a nice counterbalance to the airborne elements. Speaking of which, those little birds are delightful – their swooping poses really bring movement to the composition. The fall foliage in the background ties it all together beautifully.
I love how the artist played with scale here. The oversized scarecrow towering over the pumpkins creates a fun, storybook quality. And those tiny details, like the buttons on the coat and the stitches on the scarecrow’s face, are what take a good drawing to the next level. Overall, it’s a joyful autumn scene with tons of personality.
Pinecone On Forest Floor

For a quick sketch of this adorable pinecone creature, I’d start with the basic shape of its body. That central oval form is key – it’ll anchor your whole drawing. Rough in those layered scales with some quick, loose lines. Don’t worry about perfection here; you’re just getting the essence down.
Next, I’d block in those colorful leaves surrounding it. They frame the character, so getting their general shape and flow will help balance your composition. A few curved strokes for each leaf should do the trick. Then I’d add those fun mushrooms at the bottom – their round caps and stems provide a nice contrast to the pointy leaves. Lastly, drop in the facial features. Those big eyes and happy smile really bring the little guy to life. Remember, in a quick sketch, suggestion is more important than detail. Capture the energy and you’ve got the hard part done!
Happy Harvest Apples

The artist’s use of anthropomorphism really brings these apples to life. By giving them simple facial features and expressions, they’ve created a warm, inviting scene that draws the viewer in. It’s a clever way to add personality to what could otherwise be a plain still life.
I’m impressed by the textural contrast in this piece. The apples have a soft, rounded look with gentle shading, while the basket is all sharp angles and crisp lines. That juxtaposition creates visual interest without overwhelming the composition. The loose, sketchy leaves floating around add movement and a sense of autumn.
The color palette is nicely restrained – mostly warm reds and oranges with touches of cream and brown. It gives the whole image a cozy, autumnal feel. I’d suggest experimenting with layering colors to build up even richer tones in future pieces. Overall, it’s a charming illustration that showcases some solid foundational skills.
Owl On Tree Branch

The owl’s expression might throw beginners for a loop. Getting those closed eyes just right – with the perfect curve and placement – can be tricky. It’s all about subtle lines to convey that peaceful, sleepy look.
The textures are another challenge here. From the owl’s fluffy feathers to the varied leaves, there’s a lot going on. Beginners often struggle to differentiate textures without overcomplicating their drawings. The scarf is a good example – those simple lines suggest a knit texture without going overboard. As for the branch, capturing its organic, slightly curved shape takes a steady hand and some practice with proportions.
Color choices could also be daunting. The muted, autumnal palette works beautifully, but mixing those subtle shades isn’t easy. Getting the balance right between the cooler blues and warmer oranges and yellows takes a good eye. And let’s not forget those loose, playful splatters in the background – they add life to the piece, but knowing when to stop can be tough for new artists.
Bunny Wearing Sweater

This adorable bunny illustration is packed with great elements for drawing practice. Let’s focus on textures – they’re everywhere in this piece and mastering them can really elevate your art.
Try sketching the bunny’s fur using short, wispy strokes. Pay attention to how the fur direction changes, especially around the face and ears. Then move on to that cozy sweater. Practice drawing different knit patterns, starting with simple lines and gradually adding complexity. The fallen leaves offer a chance to experiment with organic shapes and warm autumn colors. Don’t forget those tiny acorns and berries – they’re perfect for practicing small details.
For a challenge, try replicating the soft, watercolor-like background. Use light touches and subtle color blending to capture that dreamy autumn feel. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection – it’s about building your skills and having fun with the process. Keep a sketchbook handy and doodle elements from this image whenever you have a spare moment. Before you know it, you’ll see improvement in your texture work and overall drawing ability.
Cutie Pie Slice

The use of shading and highlights really brings these food characters to life. I’m impressed by how the artist created depth and dimension, especially on the pie crust and whipped cream topping. Those subtle shadows and glints make the whole scene pop.
The expressions are spot-on too. That little smile on the pie slice is adorable, and the apple’s content look adds charm without going overboard. It’s not easy to give personality to food items, but this artist nailed it. The rosy cheeks are a nice touch – they add warmth without cluttering the clean design.
I dig how the green leaves on top tie everything together visually. They provide a nice contrast to the warmer tones and give the whole composition a fresh feel. If I were to suggest one tweak, maybe darkening the outline of the pie crust slightly could help it stand out a bit more from the background. But overall, this is some solid work that shows a good grasp of kawaii-style illustration techniques.
Hedgehog Rolling In Leaves

This hedgehog illustration is absolutely delightful! The artist has done a fantastic job capturing the creature’s playful energy amidst the falling autumn leaves. The warm color palette really brings the scene to life.
To enhance this drawing, I’d suggest adding a subtle shadow beneath the hedgehog. This would ground the little critter and give the illustration more depth. A soft, warm-toned shadow would complement the existing colors beautifully. It doesn’t need to be dark or overpowering – just enough to suggest the hedgehog is nestled in those leaves rather than floating above them.
What do you think about the expression on the hedgehog’s face? It’s so joyful and engaging. The artist nailed those little paw pads too – such a cute detail! If you’re looking to practice this style, pay close attention to how they’ve used line weight to create texture, especially in the spines. It’s a great technique for bringing characters to life.
Fox Wearing Hat And Scarf

When tackling a vibrant, dynamic subject like this fox, it’s easy to get caught up in the details too early. Many beginners rush to render every leaf and whisker before nailing down the overall composition and energy. Focus first on capturing the fox’s lively pose and the swirling motion of the autumn leaves. Loose, gestural strokes will help convey that sense of movement.
Color can be tricky here too. With such a warm palette, it’s tempting to go overboard on the oranges and reds. But notice how the artist uses touches of cool grays in the scarf and hat to balance things out. Those contrasts are crucial for making the warm tones pop. And speaking of the hat – props like that are great for adding character, but be careful not to let them overshadow your main subject. The fox’s expressive face should still be the star of the show.
Cute Caramel Apple

Let’s talk about that adorable candy apple! To capture its charm, I’d say nailing those expressive facial features is crucial. Those simple curved lines for the eyes and mouth convey so much personality. Practice drawing basic shapes with emotion – it’s trickier than it looks.
The texture is another key element here. See how the apple’s surface has little dots and imperfections? That adds realism and character. Try experimenting with different mark-making techniques to create varied textures in your own work. Stippling, cross-hatching, or even just random squiggles can bring a drawing to life.
Oh, and those autumn leaves! They really set the seasonal mood. Getting the hang of loose, organic shapes like leaves will serve you well in all kinds of illustrations. Don’t worry about making them perfect – a bit of asymmetry often looks more natural anyway.
Crow Perched On Scarecrow

For a beginner, this whimsical autumn scene could be pared down to its essential elements. Focus on the scarecrow as the central figure – simplify its shape to basic lines and curves, emphasizing the stick-like body and round head. You might start with quick, loose sketches to capture the overall posture and proportions.
The pumpkin and crow could be reduced to simpler shapes as well. Practice drawing a basic pumpkin silhouette and a bird outline separately before incorporating them into the full scene. As for the leaves, try using a few quick, curved strokes to suggest their fluttering motion rather than drawing each one in detail. This can create a sense of movement without overwhelming a new artist. The key is capturing the spirit of the scene without getting bogged down in intricate details early on.
Cinnamon Bun Wearing Earmuffs

Check out those little specks and dots scattered across the pumpkin’s surface. They give it this great textured look, almost like the slightly rough skin of a real squash. It’s a small touch, but it adds so much character.
The artist also nailed the shading on the plate. See how there are these tiny triangular shapes around the edge? That’s a clever way to suggest a shadow and give the whole image more depth. It grounds the pumpkin and makes the scene feel more three-dimensional.
I’m digging the subtle blush on the cheeks too. It’s just a hint of color, but it really brings the face to life and adds to that cute, expressive vibe. These little details are what separate a good drawing from a great one.
Chubby Squirrel Holding Acorn

When tackling this adorable squirrel illustration, I’d suggest starting with the basic shapes. That big round head and plump body are key to nailing the cute factor. Don’t worry about perfecting every detail right away – focus on getting those proportions right first.
The eyes are the heart of this piece. They’re huge and expressive, so take your time with them. Notice how the highlights give them depth and sparkle. For the fur texture, try using short, quick strokes in varying directions. This creates that fluffy look without getting too bogged down in individual hairs. And don’t forget those fall leaves! They add great context and color contrast. Scatter them around loosely to keep that whimsical vibe.
Blushing Pumpkin

The anthropomorphic pumpkin really steals the show here. Its simple facial features – those rosy cheeks and that sweet smile – give it such an endearing personality. I love how the artist managed to convey so much emotion with just a few well-placed lines.
The color palette is warm and autumnal, but it’s the textural details that caught my eye. Look at those wispy lines on the hay bale and the subtle shading on the pumpkin’s surface. It adds depth without overwhelming the whimsical style. And that floating maple leaf is a nice touch – it brings movement to an otherwise static scene. Overall, it’s a delightful blend of realism and cartoonish charm.
Bear Wearing Sweater

This illustration uses several techniques to create depth and dimension. The tree trunk in the foreground is larger and more detailed, while the branches and leaves get smaller and less defined as they extend upward. This size difference helps establish a sense of perspective.
The artist also employs overlapping elements to suggest depth. The bear figure sits in front of the tree, and falling leaves are scattered throughout different planes of the image. The pumpkins on the ground provide additional layers. Color plays a role too – the warmer oranges and yellows of the leaves pop against the cooler grays of the tree and bear, creating visual separation between elements.
Shading and highlights add volume to the bear and pumpkins, making them feel three-dimensional. The subtle shadows under the bear and pumpkins ground them in the scene. Overall, it’s a nicely composed piece that draws the eye through multiple levels of the autumn scene.
Cheerful Sunflower

When tackling proportions for this cheerful sunflower scene, I’d suggest starting with basic shapes. Sketch a large circle for the flower head, then add petal shapes around it. The stem and leaves can be roughed in with simple lines.
Getting the scale right between the sunflower and fallen leaves is crucial. Try using the “sight-size” method – hold your pencil at arm’s length to visually measure the sunflower’s height compared to the leaf pile. This helps nail those relative sizes. For the leaves themselves, vary their shapes and overlap them naturally. Don’t worry about drawing every single one – suggest the mass, then add detail to a select few.
Squirrel Jumping On Pile Of Leaves

The dynamic composition of this autumn-themed illustration really draws the eye upward. Notice how the pile of leaves at the bottom serves as a springboard, propelling your gaze to the playful squirrel leaping above. The squirrel’s outstretched limbs and bushy tail create a sense of movement that guides you through the swirling leaves.
Those scattered leaves aren’t just decorative – they’re cleverly placed to lead your eye in a circular motion around the central figure. The warm color palette of reds, oranges, and yellows unifies the entire piece, making it cohesive despite the energetic layout. If you’re aiming to create a similar effect in your own work, try sketching out the main elements first, then use smaller details to connect them visually. And don’t be afraid to exaggerate proportions or poses to enhance that feeling of motion!
Cheerful Pumpkin Pie

This cute little pumpkin pie sketch has such a cheerful vibe! Those orange hearts floating around really set a sweet, loving tone. To put a creative spin on it, why not transform it into a savory pie character instead?
Picture a steaming chicken pot pie, with a golden-brown crust that’s cracked open to reveal a smiling face. Instead of whipped cream, you could have creamy mashed potatoes piped on top. Swap out the hearts for little vegetable shapes – carrots, peas, corn kernels – swirling around. The warm, comforting feel would still come through, but with a completely different flavor profile.
You could also play with the art style. This one has a loose, hand-drawn quality. Try pushing it in a more geometric direction, using sharp angles and bold outlines to create an almost stained-glass effect. The pie could become an abstract arrangement of shapes while still keeping that adorable personality. Experimenting with different approaches keeps things fresh and helps develop your artistic range.
Smiling Corn Stalk

This colorful illustration showcases a playful take on autumn produce. The centerpiece corn cob with its cute smiley face really pops against the array of vibrant pumpkins. To apply this style to a different subject, you could start by choosing an unexpected focal point and giving it anthropomorphic features.
The line work is clean and confident, with a nice balance of detail and simplicity. Those curling corn husks add great dynamism. For a different subject, you might look for similar opportunities to incorporate flowing, organic shapes. The shading technique here is subtle but effective – notice how it gives dimension to the pumpkins without overcomplicating things. That’s something you could carry over to other subjects too.
Happy Acorn

This little acorn character is just bursting with autumn charm! The artist has managed to capture a cozy, cheerful mood through some clever choices. That acorn “hat” doubling as the character’s body is inspired – it immediately evokes thoughts of bundling up for chilly weather.
The warm oranges and browns reinforce the fall feeling, while the simple facial expression conveys pure contentment. I love how the falling leaves seem to dance around the acorn, creating a sense of gentle motion. The sketchy grass and scattered acorns on the ground root the scene, giving it a bit of earthy texture.
What really sells the coziness is the soft, hand-drawn quality. Those slightly wobbly lines and warm colored pencil tones make it feel like a cherished illustration from a children’s book. It’s the kind of drawing that makes you want to curl up with a mug of cider and watch the leaves fall outside. As an artist, capturing that intangible seasonal mood is no small feat!
Acorn Wearing A Hat

This adorable acorn character is just begging to be recreated with some unconventional techniques! One fun approach could be using actual autumn leaves and acorns to construct a 3D version. You could press and preserve colorful leaves, then layer and arrange them to form the background and hat. For the acorn body, try painting and decorating a real acorn cap.
To capture those delicate line details, consider using a wood burning tool on a smooth wooden surface. It would give that etched, organic look while staying true to the acorn’s natural habitat. For added texture, you might even incorporate some actual tree bark or wood shavings. The key is thinking outside the box and bringing those autumnal elements to life in a tactile way.
With these 30 playful autumn doodles, you’ll have endless ways to celebrate the season through art. Whether you’re filling your journal pages with falling leaves or sketching pumpkins for a seasonal touch, each doodle brings a bit of autumn joy into your creative routine. Perfect for quick, fun projects or as inspiration for larger works, these doodles will help you capture the essence of fall in a lighthearted way. Grab your pens and pencils, and let the playful spirit of autumn flow through your art!