A drawbead modeling technique is presented to improve the accuracy of finite element (FE) simulations in terms of part draw-in and thickness predictions. The drawing characteristics of 1.5 mm thickness blanks are obtained with strip drawing tests, and limitations of equivalent drawbead elements are assessed for test conditions in which the drawbead restraint force is lower than the sectional yield limit. The influence of omitted drawbead geometry and overestimated drawbead exit thickness are described using an analytical model, and a closed form expression is obtained to correct draw-in error under sectional deformation conditions. Then, drawing simulations of a variable section, open-ended channel part are performed. Computed draw-in and thickness distributions were compared with measurements on produced channels using an experimental channel-draw die. It is concluded that simulation models, based on drawbead force parameters only, overestimate blank thickness at the die entry and bring about relatively high draw-in values along part border lines. The thickness distribution with proposed technique shows an enhanced correlation with on-part measurements, and bead penetration effects on channel border lines are also simulated.