First I researched skulls of current and past animals, this one specifically I used a Protoceratops, Wolf, and Clouded Leopard skulls. With a little adjusting with the sizes and, widths, and tights of the skull I was able to get the first outline of my creature. The initial skull design is shown above.

I made a simple Outline in Illustrator and printed it out. I used the print-out to sketch out where I wanted my scales, which is pictured above.

And finally I got to the fun part! Painting the actual creature! Once I got the sketch of the scales into photoshop, I was able to paint him! I always choose my colors before I even select a brush. Then ill choose a few lights and darks of each color for shades and highlights. Then I get to start the actual painting process!