Procreate Tips Every Digital Artist Should Try
1. Utilize Custom Brushes
Procreate offers a variety of brushes, but creating or downloading custom brushes tailored to your style can significantly enhance your artwork. Explore platforms like Gumroad or ArtStation for unique options. Craft brushes to replicate traditional media—watercolor, oils, or pastels—to find your unique artistic voice.
2. Experiment with Blending Modes
Blending modes are powerful tools in Procreate that can change how layers interact with one another. Familiarize yourself with options like Overlay, Multiply, or Screen. Each mode can create different effects and dramatically alter the aesthetic of your painting.
3. Take Advantage of Layering
Layering is essential in digital art. Use multiple layers to separate different elements of your artwork—background, midground, and foreground. This method allows for easier adjustments without affecting the overall composition. Try grouping layers for better organization.
4. Use QuickShape for Precision
When drawing shapes, the QuickShape feature enables you to effortlessly create perfect circles, squares, and lines. Simply draw your shape, hold it at the end, and Procreate will snap it into the desired format. Remember to tap the screen to settle on the shape you want.
5. Customize Your Workspace
Procreate allows you to customize the toolbar and gestures to suit your workflow. Tailoring your workspace can streamline your process and reduce time spent searching for tools. Explore the preferences menu to tweak settings that work best for you.
6. Learn Gesture Controls
Mastering gesture controls can greatly increase your efficiency in Procreate. For instance, using two fingers to undo or three fingers to redo can save time. Familiarize yourself with a gesture guide to make the most of your workflow.
7. Use Selection Tools Effectively
The selection tools in Procreate provide tremendous power over your artwork. Use the Freehand selection mode to outline specific areas for edits, or try the Automatic mode for quick selections of similar colors. This flexibility allows for nuanced color adjustments and transformations.
8. Implement Clipping Masks
Clipping masks are invaluable when it comes to adding details or textures to your art without permanently affecting your base layers. Create a new layer above your main layer, then tap it and select “Clipping Mask.” Your new layer will only affect the area of the underlying layer, allowing for precision.
9. Explore Color Palette Options
Procreate offers diverse ways to create and manage color palettes. Use color harmony tools to derive palettes based on artistic theory. Import palettes from photos or other sources to keep your colors cohesive throughout your project.
10. Use Reference Layer
While painting, the reference layer tool allows you to use another layer as a guide without affecting it directly. This method is particularly helpful when working with intricate designs or when you want to maintain line work while coloring.
11. Take Advantage of Time-Lapse Recording
Procreate automatically records your progress, enabling you to create time-lapse videos of your work. Use this feature to review your artistic process, share on social media, or create tutorials that demonstrate your techniques.
12. Organize Your Brushes
As your collection of brushes grows, it’s essential to keep them organized. Make sure to rename and categorize them into folders based on their type or function. This way, you can quickly access the brushes that inspire you for any given project.
13. Utilize the Color Drop Tool
To fill areas swiftly, use the Color Drop feature by dragging your chosen color from the palette directly onto the area you want to fill. This technique is especially useful for complex shapes; just make sure to adjust the color threshold if necessary.
14. Employ the Gaussian Blur Tool
In Procreate, the Gaussian Blur tool provides a method to soften edges and create depth in your artwork. By applying some blur to backgrounds or certain elements, you can add a professional touch and subdue distracting details.
15. Save Frequently and Use Version History
Working in Procreate can occasionally lead to unsaved changes. Use the ‘Save’ function commonly, and explore the ‘Version History’ feature in the Actions menu to revert to previous stages of your artwork if needed.
16. Harness the Power of Grids and Guides
Use the built-in grids and guides to ensure proportion and perspective in your illustrations. Adjust the settings from the Actions menu to customize how the grid appears, whether you need precise alignment or just a rough guide.
17. Try Out the Animation Assist
Animation Assist is a fantastic feature for artists looking to bring their illustrations to life. Explore frame-by-frame animation and layering techniques, allowing you to create intricate animations directly in Procreate.
18. Play with Different Textures
Textures add dimension and interest to your artwork. Use textured brushes or import textures into Procreate by creating a new layer and setting it to multiply or overlay. Experiment with blending modes to see how they can enhance your work.
19. Use the Symmetry Tool
The Symmetry tool allows you to create symmetrical designs easily. Enable it from the Actions menu and set up the symmetry axis to create perfectly balanced art, ideal for logos, patterns, and mandalas.
20. Stay Updated with Procreate’s Features
Procreate frequently receives updates that introduce new capabilities. Ensure your app is up-to-date to access the latest tools, brushes, and features available to improve your workflow and creativity.
21. Create Custom Stamps
Custom stamps can save time, especially for repetitive designs like trees or clouds. Create a brush stamp from an object you’ve drawn, which can quickly be applied to your canvas, saving significant time during the drawing process.
22. Use High-Resolution Canvases
Always choose a high-resolution canvas when starting new projects. This choice allows for greater detail and avoids pixelation when zoomed in. Configure your canvas size and DPI settings at the beginning to suit your final output needs.
23. Familiarize Yourself with Procreate’s Export Options
Procreate offers several export formats—JPEG, PNG, and PSD, for instance. Understanding how to export your work properly ensures that you maintain quality and compatibility with other software programs if necessary.
24. Collaborate with Other Artists
Consider using the Share feature in Procreate to collaborate with other artists. You can send files for feedback or invite others to contribute to your project, which can provide fresh perspectives and inspiration.
25. Develop Your Own Style
While practicing the techniques mentioned, aim to develop a personal style. Combining various Procreate features and tools can lead to a unique result that sets you apart as an artist.
26. Join Online Communities
Participate in forums, groups, or social media platforms dedicated to Procreate. Engaging with fellow artists offers exposure to new techniques, tips, and tricks, while providing a support system as you develop your artistry.
27. Investigate Color Theory
Understanding color theory can dramatically improve your artwork. Learn about complementary colors, color harmony, and color psychology to choose color palettes that enhance your artistic narrative.
28. Explore Live Brushes
Some brushes can respond dynamically to pressure and tilt when using the Apple Pencil. Engaging with these brushes can result in more expressive strokes, closely mimicking traditional painting dynamics.
29. Incorporate 3D Models
Procreate now supports 3D models and textures. You can import 3D objects and paint directly onto them, opening up new possibilities for illustration and character design.
30. Regularly Reflect on Your Work
Set aside time to review your portfolio periodically. Analyzing your art will help you identify strengths and areas for improvement, enabling you to evolve your skills over time.
31. Keep a Digital Sketchbook
Using Procreate as a sketchbook helps you experiment with new ideas without the pressure of completing a finished piece. This practice cultivates creativity and allows for exploration of styles or techniques.
32. Use Procreate’s Guides for Layout Design
If you’re designing for print or digital media, taking advantage of Procreate’s guides can help maintain typography and object alignment. You can create safe zones to avoid cutting off important features during print.
33. Personalize Color Shortcut Menu
Customize your color reel for easy access to your go-to colors. By dragging your favorite colors into the menu, you can save time selecting hues each time you start a new project.
34. Keep Experimenting
Don’t hesitate to try unconventional methods or combinations of features within Procreate. Sometimes, pursuing a new technique or approach can lead to impressive results and help expand your artistic boundaries.
35. Set Up Custom Actions
Create custom actions for repetitive tasks such as resizing or adjusting layers. This technique will minimize the time spent on mundane tasks, allowing you to focus more on your creative process.
36. Master Layer Opacity
Adjusting layer opacity helps in achieving the desired effect without erasing or modifying what’s already been created. Experiment with different opacities to find balance and depth within your artwork.
37. Harness the Aesthetic of Minimalism
Sometimes, less is more. Embrace a minimalist approach by focusing on composition and color. Allow negative space to enhance your work and create a more impactful visual experience.
38. Use Color Adjustments
Post-creation, use Procreate’s color adjustment tools to refine your artwork. Options like Hue, Saturation, Brightness, and Curves help finalize a color palette that aligns with your initial vision.
39. Explore Character Design Features
Create in-depth character designs by utilizing Procreate’s features allowing you to manipulate poses, expressions, and outfits with ease. Adjusting layers and using selections can lead to elaborate compositions.
40. Connect with Nature for Inspiration
Taking your Procreate work outdoors can inspire new ideas. Sketch natural landscapes or wildlife directly on your iPad, intertwining traditional drawing experiences with digital applications.
41. Organize Art Assets into Folders
Keeping your artwork organized in folders leads to an efficient workflow. Create folders for different projects, client work, or sketches, ensuring that you can quickly locate files when needed.
42. Take Advantage of Inspirational Sources
Collect images, color palettes, and artwork that inspires you. Use them as reference material in Procreate to help you develop your unique visual style.
43. Attend Procreate Workshops
Look for workshops or online courses that focus on Procreate skills. Participating in these learning experiences can introduce you to advanced features and techniques utilized by professional artists.
44. Create a Visual Style Guide
If you frequently work on character or scene designs, compile a visual style guide to maintain consistency across your artwork. Always refer back to this guide as you create new pieces.
45. Impart Realism with Shadows and Highlights
Learning to paint light effectively sets your artwork apart. Focus on applying highlights and shadows accurately to create depth, creating a realistic sense of dimension.
46. Use Multiple Canvas Options
Different projects require different canvas types and dimensions. Explore various canvas options in Procreate, from traditional art sizes to non-standard formats tailored to modern illustrations.
47. Keep Plug-ins Organized
Procreate supports plugins that enhance functionality. Maintain organization by categorizing and regularly updating your plugins to ensure they complement your workflow efficiently.
48. Incorporate Feedback from Peers
Gather constructive criticism from fellow artists. Feedback is invaluable for personal development and can highlight blind spots in your artistic technique.
49. Set Achievable Goals
Define clear and achievable goals for your artistic development. Periodically evaluate your progress to stay motivated and ensure consistent improvement.
50. Embrace Mistakes
Every artist makes mistakes; it’s part of the learning process. Focus on learning from them rather than stressing over imperfection. This mindset can lead to artistic breakthroughs.
51. Explore Cultural Art Styles
Diving into different cultural art styles can diversify your artistic vocabulary. Experiment with techniques inspired by traditional cultural methods in your Procreate studies.
52. Continuously Challenge Yourself
Set challenges, like creating a piece a day or studying a new technique weekly. Growth happens outside your comfort zone, so push yourself to explore styles you haven’t tried before.
53. Record Your Artistic Journey
Consider blogging or sharing your artistic journey online. Documenting your process and growth can provide motivation and encourage fellow artists to engage with your work.
54. Use Layer Masks for Non-Destructive Editing
Layer masks allow for non-destructive editing, providing ultimate flexibility. This technique enables you to hide or reveal details in your artwork without permanently altering the layers.
55. Implement Lighting Techniques
Experiment with various lighting scenarios in your artwork. Understanding how light affects color and form can add realism and mood, enhancing the overall quality of your art.
56. Collaborate on Personal Projects
Join forces with fellow artists for collaborative projects. This cooperation can lead to exciting outcomes, exposing you to different techniques and styles throughout the creation process.
57. Keep Your iPad Clean
A clean iPad screen allows for better precision while drawing. Regularly wipe down your device to maintain clarity and ease of use during your artwork sessions.
58. Develop a Signature Look
Create work that embodies your personality and aesthetic. Developing a signature look sets your portfolio apart and helps establish a recognizable presence in the art community.
59. Set Up Automatic Backups
Enable automatic backups for your Procreate files to avoid losing any precious artwork. Regularly back up to cloud storage to ensure your work remains safe and accessible.
60. Explore Digital Collage Techniques
Combine different images and mediums by exploring digital collage approaches in Procreate. Experiment with layers and blending modes to create intricate and visually engaging compositions.
61. Utilize the Canvas Size for Detail Work
Adjusting your canvas size while working on detailed sections can enhance quality. Zooming in allows for finer details that contribute significantly to the overall impact.
62. Always Keep Learning
Embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Whether through tutorials or art classes, developing new techniques can enhance your skills and introduce you to fresh approaches.
63. Try Out Different Sceneries
Switching between urban, natural, or abstract settings can elevate your creativity. Challenge yourself to create scenes that pull from diverse environments and styles.
64. Be Open to New Tools
Explore new artistic tools and apps that complement your Procreate experience. Incorporating different software can open doors to unique creative possibilities.
65. Use Procreate for Comic Art
Utilize Procreate’s features to create comic panels, including lettering and speech bubbles. Experiment with storytelling through sequential art for diverse creative outlets.
66. Benefit from Virtual Art Challenges
Engage with virtual art challenges to explore new themes and techniques. They can motivate you to try different styles and expand your creative horizons.
67. Explore Experimental Techniques
Don’t shy away from trying experimental techniques, such as glitch art or surrealism. Use Procreate’s capabilities to push boundaries and become proficient in unique visual expressions.
68. Engage with User Experience
Regularly assess your user experience within Procreate. Adjust settings, tools, and brush options to maintain an intuitive workflow that aligns with your creative process.
69. Create a Custom Workflow
Identify and build a custom workflow tailored to your artistic style. Consider incorporating shortcuts, preset actions, or organization techniques that enhance your creativity.
70. Consider a Professional Display Monitor
Opt for a professional display monitor for your iPad when creating detailed artworks. Such displays provide accurate color representation, enhancing your overall art quality.
71. Embrace Seasonal Inspiration
Take inspiration from seasonal changes and festivities to create themed artwork. This approach can deepen your connection to nature and spark creativity.
72. Use Frame Rate for Animation
When exploring animations, experiment with different frame rates to achieve various effects. Understanding how frame rates impact smoothness and style can enhance animated work.
73. Take Breaks to Stay Inspired
Taking regular breaks during art sessions fosters creativity and boosts productivity. Stepping away allows your mind to rejuvenate and return with fresh perspectives.
74. Keep a Sketch Journal for Concepts
Maintain a sketch journal to explore concepts and ideas without the pressure of finalizing pieces. Use it as a visual brainstorming tool for future Procreate projects.
75. Familiarize Yourself with Typography
Explore and experiment with typography within your designs. Understanding various font selections can vastly affect your artwork’s message and visual appeal.
76. Create Iconography for Recognition
Design unique icons or symbols that can serve as recognizable elements of your artwork. This practice will help in building a memorable brand identity as an artist.
77. Seek Mentorship
Look for mentorship opportunities to improve your skills significantly. Experienced feedback can offer insight into aspects you may not have considered in your artistic journey.
78. Create Animation Loops
Consider creating clean animation loops for social media. Procreate enables seamless looping, which can captivate your audience while showcasing your skills.
79. Build a Visual Vocabulary
Cultivating a strong visual vocabulary will enable you to express ideas more succinctly and effectively. Survey various artists and styles and find those elements that resonate with you.
80. Explore Character Animation
Dive deeper into character animation projects using Procreate. By utilizing storyboard techniques alongside animation aids, you can create captivating narratives.
81. Develop an Online Portfolio
Showcase your work through an online portfolio, allowing potential clients to easily access your pieces. A professional-looking site can enhance your visibility and marketability.
82. Use Geometry for Abstract Works
Incorporate geometric shapes and patterns into your abstract designs. Procreate’s precision tools can enhance the structural integrity of the forms you create.
83. Use Storyboards for Planning
When working on intricate projects, consider using storyboards to plan your layouts and sequences. This can streamline the creative process and maintain clarity on your design goals.
84. Join Digital Art Competitions
Participate in digital art competitions to showcase your work and gain exposure. They can provide recognition and serve as a platform to connect with other artists.
85. Document Your Process
Share the process of how you create your art through time-lapses or tutorials. This sharing not only boosts your visibility but also educates others in the community.
86. Research New Art Trends
Stay informed on current art trends and styles by exploring social media and online communities. Whether through illustration or graphic design, being aware of trends can enhance your relevance as an artist.
87. Create Art with Purpose
Focus your artwork around a specific message or cause that resonates with you. Art created with intent can foster deeper connections with viewers.
88. Experiment with Augmented Reality
Explore augmented reality capabilities within Procreate to create art that interacts with the viewer in unique ways. This feature can enhance engagement and expand the way art is experienced.
89. Maintain a Healthy Workspace
An organized physical workspace will help your digital workflow. Make sure your area is free from distractions and equipped with comfortable seating and good lighting.
90. Develop a Study Routine
Establishing a dedicated study routine helps reinforce skills and improves consistency. Block out time for practice specifically devoted to enhancing your Procreate abilities.
91. Connect with Art Influencers
Follow and interact with art influencers to glean insights from their experiences. Engaging through comments or collaborations can enhance your learning curve.
92. Use Procreate’s Online Communities for Feedback
Leverage Procreate-focused online communities to seek feedback on artwork from peers and experienced artists alike. Constructive criticism can greatly enhance your skills.
93. Explore Color Testing
Before committing to colors, conduct small color tests on separate layers. Testing colors in context allows an understanding of how they interact before applying them to the main artwork.
94. Implement Non-Linear Storytelling
Explore non-linear storytelling in your character illustrations. Compose pieces that encourage viewers to engage with your artwork from various perspectives.
95. Record Your Artistic Thoughts
Carry a digital or paper journal to jot down artistic ideas or inspirations. Having a record can ensure you have ideas to draw from during later Procreate sessions.
96. Seek Diverse Feedback Sources
Instead of confining feedback to fellow artists, seek diverse perspectives from friends or individuals outside the art community. Fresh viewpoints can shed light on aspects you may have overlooked.
97. Consider Printing Your Artwork
Explore printing your digital artwork on various media, like canvas or postcards, to understand how your work translates from screen to physical format.
98. Engage with the Art Community
Attend local art shows, workshops, or conventions to network with fellow artists and industry professionals. Engaging in-person could lead to potential collaborations or opportunities.
99. Explore Indigenous Artistic Styles
Gain inspiration from Indigenous art styles as a way to connect with cultural histories. Researching methods and techniques can expand your understanding and appreciation of global artistry.
100. Keep Growing Your Artistic Skills
Above all, commit yourself to continuous growth. Art is an ever-evolving landscape, and as you adapt and learn over time, your skills will reflect your dedication to the craft.
