How to Draw Retro Characters: Rubber Hose Style Breakdown

Learn the basics of 1920s cartoon design in our new tutorial—plus tools and resources to go further.

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April 11, 2025 5:03pm EDT

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How to Draw Retro Characters | Rubber Hose Cartoon Style

Learn the Secret Sauce of Rubber Hose Animation

Ever wonder how to make your characters bounce, boogie, and feel alive—like classic 1920s cartoons?

We're diving deep into the wild world of rubber hose animation—where anatomy takes a back seat and personality runs the show. In this new tutorial, you'll see how we reimagined the RetroSupply mascot in full rubber hose style.

Here's what this video tutorial will help you do:

Break down rubber hose construction, design, and line work (no art degree required).
Master classic cartoon features like pie-cut eyes and boneless limbs.
Get an insider look into the brushes, textures, and little tips and tricks that nail the style.

Tap below to watch the full tutorial and view the written guide.

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