Table of Contents
Introduction
Graffiti bubble letters, also known as throw-ups or softies, are a popular style of graffiti art characterized by their rounded, inflated appearance. This playful and decorative lettering style has become a staple of urban street art, adding a touch of whimsy and creativity to city walls and surfaces. Whether you’re a seasoned graffiti artist or a curious beginner, learning how to draw graffiti bubble letters can help you develop your own unique style and contribute to the vibrant world of street art.
The Origins and Evolution of Graffiti Bubble Letters
Graffiti bubble letters first emerged in the 1970s as a variation of the classic graffiti tag. Artists began experimenting with rounder, more inflated letterforms as a way to make their tags stand out and create a more dynamic visual impact. Over time, bubble letters evolved into a distinct style of their own, incorporating elements such as 3D effects, gradients, and intricate details.
One of the pioneers of graffiti bubble letters was Phase 2, a Bronx-based artist who is credited with popularizing the style in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His iconic « softie » letters, which featured rounded edges and a bubbly appearance, inspired countless other artists and helped establish bubble letters as a fundamental part of graffiti culture.
PHASE 2 piece on a subway car utilizing graffiti bubble letters.
Key Characteristics of Graffiti Bubble Letters
Graffiti bubble letters are defined by their soft, rounded shapes and playful, cartoonish aesthetic. Some key characteristics of this style include:
- Rounded edges: Bubble letters have smooth, curved edges that give them a soft, inflated appearance, as if they were filled with air.
- Consistent width: Unlike other graffiti styles that feature varying line weights, bubble letters typically maintain a consistent thickness throughout each letter.
- Overlapping and interconnected letters: Bubble letters often overlap or connect, creating a cohesive and flowing composition.
- Bright, vibrant colors: Artists frequently use bold, eye-catching colors to make their bubble letters pop against the urban backdrop.
- 3D effects and shading: To enhance the illusion of depth and dimensionality, bubble letters may incorporate 3D effects, shadows, and highlights.
Example of colorful graffiti bubble letters
Throw-Ups vs. Bubble Letters: Similarities and Differences
Throw-ups and bubble letters are often used interchangeably in the graffiti world, as they share many similarities in their rounded, bubbly appearance. However, there are some subtle differences between the two styles:
| Similarities | 1. Both throw-ups and bubble letters feature rounded, soft edges and a bubbly aesthetic. 2. They are typically quicker to execute than more complex graffiti pieces, making them a popular choice for artists looking to cover a large area quickly. 3. Throw-ups and bubble letters often incorporate bright, vibrant colors and simple shading techniques. |
| Differences | 1. Throw-ups are generally simpler in design, consisting of only two or three letters, while bubble letters can be more elaborate and include full words or phrases. 2. Throw-ups often have a more rushed, spontaneous appearance, while bubble letters may be more carefully planned and executed. 3. Bubble letters tend to have a more polished, refined look, with greater emphasis on 3D effects and intricate details. |
Despite these differences, the terms « throw-up » and « bubble letters » are often used synonymously in the graffiti community, as they both represent a fun, playful style of lettering that has become an integral part of urban street art culture.
How to Draw Graffiti Bubble Letters: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Practice Alphabet Letters
Learning how to draw graffiti bubble letters is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to develop your own unique style. Follow these steps to create your own eye-catching bubble letters:
Step-by-step guide to drawing graffiti bubble letters
- Start by sketching a simple outline shape for each letter in your word or phrase. Focus on creating rounded, bubbly forms with consistent widths.
- Define the edges of the letters by tracing around the outline shapes. Make sure to maintain the rounded, bubbly aesthetic throughout.
- Repeat the process for each letter in your word or phrase, ensuring that the letters flow seamlessly together and have a cohesive appearance.
- Add shading to the letters to create a 3D effect. Use a darker shade along one side of each letter to suggest a light source and add depth.
2. Add Style and Flavor
Adding your own unique style and flavor to your bubble letters can help you communicate something about yourself or your perspective, create a distinct brand or signature style, and make your work more visually interesting and engaging for viewers. There are many ways to add style to bubble letters in order to make it stand out and reflect your personal artistic style. Here are a few suggestions:
Examples of bubble letters details
Be creative, experimental, and develop your own touch that reflects your personality and artistic vision. Don’t forget to fill the letters with your favorite colors !
3. Create Your Piece
By understanding the key characteristics and techniques behind this iconic lettering style, you can do the letters composition and create your own vibrant, eye-catching pieces that reflect your unique artistic vision. Here are some examples you can start with :
Examples of graffiti letters composition
Conclusion
Graffiti bubble letters, or throw-ups, are a fun and expressive style of street art that anyone can learn with practice and dedication. Remember, the world of graffiti art is all about creativity, experimentation, and self-expression. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and develop your own distinctive take on bubble letters. With time and persistence, you’ll be able to leave your mark on the urban landscape and contribute to the rich, ever-evolving tradition of street art.
For more inspiration and techniques, check out our article on 5 Popular Graffiti Styles: From Old School to Wildstyle.