App Showcase: Drawing Desk:Learn How to Draw
App info
- App name: Drawing Desk:Learn How to Draw
- Onboarding steps: 7
- Paywall type: Free Trial - Soft Paywall
- Monthly installs: 35,000
- Monthly revenue: $250,000
- App category: education
What it does
Drawing Desk is a comprehensive digital art application designed to teach users how to draw. It provides an interactive canvas paired with step-by-step guides, ranging from simple cartoon characters to complex anatomy and anime styles. The app serves both as a learning platform and a digital sketchpad.
Where it shines
The app excels in its interactive teaching methodology. At 03:20, during a drawing lesson, the user is guided by a small video overlay of an instructor, specific tool highlights, and dashed lines on the canvas to trace over. This hands-on, guided approach removes the intimidation factor of starting with a blank page.
UX highlights
- Video Onboarding: The app opens with a real person explaining the benefits (00:09), which establishes trust and clearly demonstrates the visual output.
- Mascot Integration: A friendly giraffe character is used during loading screens (01:51) and trial reminders (02:17), creating a cohesive and approachable brand identity.
- In-Context Tools: During lessons, the app highlights the exact tool and color needed (04:04), preventing frustration for beginners.
- Feedback Loop: Completing a lesson presents a score based on accuracy and time (05:43), adding a gamified element that encourages improvement.
- Dedicated Kids Area: A separate "Kids Desk" canvas (09:54) offers playful, simplified tools like stamp brushes and bright colors, catering perfectly to a younger demographic.
Monetization & growth
The app employs a prominent paywall immediately after onboarding (01:59). It offers two main tiers (annual vs. weekly) and emphasizes a "Last Minute Discount" to drive conversions. It also features follow-up screens with the mascot explaining the trial terms, ensuring users understand they won't be charged immediately. Additionally, the app offers a coin-based system (11:51) to unlock specific features, acting as a secondary monetization layer.
Who it’s for
Drawing Desk is targeted at a broad audience, from absolute beginners and children wanting to doodle, to hobbyists looking to learn specific styles like anime or digital portraiture.
Notes & opportunities
While the guided lessons are excellent, the sheer volume of content in the "Lessons" tab (08:02) can feel overwhelming. Better categorization or filtering based on the initial onboarding quiz could help users find relevant content faster without endless scrolling.