Compose the frame of the picture. Plan the dimensions of the golden dragon. Decide where you would like the head and tail to begin and end. Determine if you would like the your dragon in the background or foreground of your pencil sketch.
Outline the frame for your golden dragon. Begin at the top of a page. Draw the frame of the head. Make a long curve to below the neck. Draw a horizontal line across for the collarbone. Create a circle on the left side of for the shoulder. Draw a straight line that will later resemble your dragon's the arm and hand.
Add more shapes to the rough lines of your golden dragon. The shapes should represent different parts of the body. Draw a circle around where you would like the chest. Add more shapes for other parts, like ovals for the legs and the pelvis.
Add detail to your sketch. Draw the hands, claws and leg. Draw lines that depict the horns, the wings, eyes and face. The golden dragon has five horns. Skin tissue hangs from the left arm and a beard-like flap of skin dangles from the chin. Proceed carefully. Begin at the dragon's head. Sketch the face with its flaring nostrils and almond-shaped eyes. Draw the dragon's wing that appears like a flame and a tail that loops to the right side. Draw simple lines and shapes, then add detail.
Fill in details and shading for skin and feet. Be exacting. Don't forget the nails of the dragon's toes. Add definition to the wings and tail.