How to Draw Mario in MS Paint (Using Only a Mouse!) 🍄🎨

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Did you know you don't need expensive software like Photoshop or Procreate to make viral digital art? The "MS Paint Aesthetic" is taking over Pinterest and TikTok right now. It has that nostalgic, pixel-perfect vibe that you just can't get with modern filters.

In this post, I’m going to show you exactly how I constructed this Mario face using the default Windows Paint app. And the best part? I didn't even use a drawing tablet—this was done entirely with a mouse using shapes!

Why MS Paint?

  • It’s Free: No monthly subscriptions.

  • It’s Simple: No complex layers or confusing tools.

  • The Vibe: It naturally creates that "lo-fi" retro look that is trending right now.

Tools You Need (My Setup)

While the software is free, using a trackpad can be a nightmare for drawing. Here are the budget-friendly tools I use to get precise lines:

  • The Mouse: You need a mouse with adjustable DPI (sensitivity) for those tiny pixel details. I recommend the Redragon M910-KS. It’s wired but feels great for long drawing sessions.

  • The Tablet (Optional): If you want to draw by hand, yes, you CAN use a drawing tablet with MS Paint! I recommend a HUION Inspiroy H640P Drawing Tablet. It’s super cheap and works instantly with Windows. However, in most of my MS Paint Art I don't use drawing tablets; instead, I utilize the shapes available in the Paint Application.

  • Desk Mat: Smooth gliding is key. I use this extended gaming mat: Aothia Non-Slip Waterproof PU Leather Desk Pad Protector.

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Building Mario with Shapes

Step 1: Canvas Setup Open MS Paint. Go to File > Image Properties. Set your width and height to 1080 x 1350 pixels. This is the perfect ratio for Pinterest and TikTok, so your art looks full-screen on phones.

Step 2: The Anchor (Nose & Face) Don't try to draw the whole head at once!

  • Select the Ellipse Tool (Circle). Hold Shift on your keyboard to make a perfect circle for the nose right in the center.

  • Draw a larger, wider ellipse behind it for the cheeks/jaw.

  • Tip: Use the Eraser to remove the lines where the nose overlaps the face, so it looks like one clean image.

Step 3: The Hat & Ears

  • The Brim: Use the Curve Tool (the squiggly line icon). Draw a straight line across the forehead, then click and drag the middle of the line upward to curve it. This creates the perfect hat brim.

  • The Top: Use a large Ellipse for the top of the hat.

  • The Ears: Draw two circles on the sides of the face.

Step 4: The Mustache & Eyes (The Details) This is where the "MS Paint" charm comes in.

  • Mustache: Instead of drawing it freehand, use the Curve Tool to make the "bumps" of the mustache one by one. Connect them to make that iconic bubbly shape.

  • Eyes: These are just nested circles! Draw a large white oval, then a blue circle inside (Iris), then a black circle (Pupil), and finally a tiny white circle for the "sparkle."

Step 5: Coloring (Edit Colors) Mario's colors are iconic, so the default red might be too bright.

  • Click "Edit Colors" in the top toolbar.

  • Create a slightly darker, warmer red for the hat.

  • Find a nice peach/tan tone for the skin.

  • Use the Fill Bucket to drop the colors in. If the color leaks everywhere, zoom in to 800% and find the tiny gap in your lines!

Step 6: The "M" Logo Finish it off by drawing a white circle on the hat. You can use the Text Tool to type a big red "M" inside it, or draw the letter using the Line Tool for that sharp, geometric look.

Final Result

Here is how the final piece turned out!

You may watch the full tutorial in the video I shared here.

If you try this tutorial, tag me on TikTok so I can see your creations! And don't forget to pin this image to your Art Inspiration board on Pinterest.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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