Design the silhouette
Check the figure as a flat shape at a small size. Posture, costume, and props should help establish a readable character. Remove details that do not change the overall impression.
Connect the figure and setting
Use shared light, contact shadows, and consistent scale to make the character belong in the space. A richly painted figure can still feel detached if those relationships are missing.
Choose meaningful detail
Add a small number of features that imply use, material, or a story question. Let the viewer discover them after the main form has already become clear.