Procreate app for beginners: What it is and how it works

Are you new to digital art? If yes, the Procreate app is the best tool for you. How? It lets you draw, paint, and create digital artwork on your iPad. It is similar to using real pencils and brushes. In this blog, we are going to explain what the Procreate app is and its main features. Also, you will get to know how it works on an iPad. So, you can have a better understanding of this app.

We will also tell you about its cost, different versions, and tips to start practicing. By the end of this blog, you can picture how Procreate can help you or your child to create digital art in a fun way.

What is Procreate?

Definition of Procreate

In simple words, the Procreate app is a powerful digital drawing and painting app. It is made for iPad users. If you have a question, “What is the Procreate app?” just know that it is like a digital sketchbook. On this platform, you can draw, paint, and create art by using an Apple Pencil. Procreate is designed to feel natural. It shows your drawings as if they were done on paper.

Purpose of the Procreate app

The main aim of the Procreate app is to help people who suffer from creating digital art smoothly. If you are using this app, you can make sketches, illustrations, or even animations. Whatever you create is done on one screen. So that you don’t have to seek physical tools like papers or brushes.

The type of people who use the Procreate app

Let’s move to the topic of what type of people can use the Procreate app. The answer is illustrators, hobbyists, or students. Illustrators use it to create their professional artwork. While hobbyists install Procreate for fun. And students take help in learning while using it. Also, it has a common workflow. You need to open the app, create a canvas, and choose a brush. Then, you have to draw your idea and export your artwork.

Procreate’s development history and reputation

The Procreate app was developed by Savage Interactive, and it was launched in 2011. In a very short period of time, Procreate became the most wanted iPad drawing app. It was named the best-selling iPad app in 2018. Many people find it a reliable app because of its simple design and effective tools. Also, it has a strong reputation among artists and freshers.

Key features of the Procreate app

There are some powerful Procreate app features that make digital drawing smooth and fun. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner. These features can still help you to create perfect-looking artwork. Let’s know about these features!

Brush Library

The first feature of the Procreate app is the brush library. It has a large collection of brushes. This includes pencil, ink, paint, and texture. Whatever brush you like, you can choose freely. Not just this, it also has a customization option. You can make a brush that matches your style.

Layers

Another useful feature of the Procreate app is layers. It means you can draw different parts of your artwork separately. The example is that one layer can be used to draw a background, and the other can be used to create a character. This mainly helps in making editing easy. You can change one part without editing the whole drawing.

Color Tools

The Procreate app also offers a feature named color tools.  This means you can select any color from a wheel and create your own palette. In case you suffer a lot to find the right colors, this app is perfect for you. You can choose the perfect colors to make your artwork more attractive.

Animation Tools

Another great feature inside the Procreate app is the animation tool. It lets you create simple animations. Your drawing will become moving images while using frame-by-frame animation. If you are a beginner and want to explore animation, this is your app. You can do the best practice here.

Time-lapse Recording

One of the unique Procreate tools is time-lapse recording. This feature lets you record your drawing process. And guess what? It is automatic. You don’t need to manage a lot. Also, it allows you to replay your drawing later. After completion, you can share this video to show how your artwork is made.

Canvas and Export Options

The next standout feature is canvas and export options. This feature allows you to create a canvas in different sizes. These sizes are based on your project. When you know your artwork is ready, you can get an export option. Yes. You can share it in multiple formats like PNG, JPEG, or PSD.

Overall, all these features clarify that the Procreate app is the best beginner-friendly tool for digital art.

Procreate cost, availability, and versions

One-time purchase model

Were you thinking that the Procreate app is free? It is not. While downloading it from the App Store, you have to pay once. The best part is you don’t have to pay every time to use this app. It is a one-time purchase. There will be no monthly fees.

Procreate Pocket vs Procreate for iPad

Mainly, there are two different versions of the Procreate app. One is Procreate Pocket, and the other is Procreate for iPad. Let’s know both versions:

Procreate for iPad

This is the complete version. If you have a bigger screen, it can work best on it. Along with that, if you use an Apple Pencil, it will give more effective results. This version has all the advanced tools. So, if you are a professional, go for this version.

Procreate Pocket

This is the smaller version. It is made for iPhones. You can find many features that are similar to the full version. However, it is specifically designed for a smaller screen. So, if you are an iPhone user, you can use Procreate Pocket.

Availability (Device support)

Officially, you can find the Procreate app device support only on Apple devices. If you are using an Android or other devices, you can’t make it work. So, while planning to pay for the Procreate app, make sure you have an iPad or an iPhone. Otherwise, your money is at risk.

How to choose: Cost vs Features

When you are choosing the right Procreate app version, all you need to do is focus on your needs. Do you need a better drawing experience with complete features and a bigger screen? If yes, go for Procreate for iPad. However, if you are a beginner or want a low-budget option, you can get Procreate Pocket. It is the simplest version and good for basic practice.

Procreate app for beginners – step-by-step getting started

How to set up Procreate for the first time?

• Step 1. Download and open the Procreate app.

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• Step 2. Create a new canvas.

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• Step 3. Pair your Apple Pencil.

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• Step 4. Understand the basic workspace.

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Basic tools and where to find them

Move & Transform tool (Arrow icon): You can find this tool in the left corner of the screen. It lets you move, resize, or rotate your drawing.

Selection tool (S icon): This tool is available next to the transform tool. It works by letting you select a specific part of your artwork.

Transform gestures (touch shortcuts): To make this feature work, you need to use your two fingers. This tool helps you pinch the screen to zoom in or out.

Undo and Redo: You need to do a two-finger tap for undo and a three-finger tap for redo. It is useful for beginners.

Beginner tips for better digital art

To create the best digital art, you should read some effective tips and implement them. We are going to give some tips. You can use them while using the Procreate app.

If you are new to this app, you can try some simple exercises. It can be:

• Tracing
• Value studies
• Limited-palette practice

Tracing can improve hand control, and Value studies can help you understand depth. Also, a limited color palette lets you learn how colors work together.

There are also some short workflow tips. It includes:

• Layer naming
• Non-destructive edits
• Using time-lapse

Layer naming can help you stay organized, and non-destructive edits give you more control and flexibility. Also, using time-lapse can improve your technique step by step.

Procreate vs other drawing apps

Before you read about Procreate vs other drawing apps, just know that all apps are made differently. The users for each app is not same. The Procreate app is in demand for its simple design and smooth performance. However, they are many other apps like Procreate that offer effective features and experiences.

The main difference can be workflow, tools, and what users experienced. In the matter of Procreate, it is easy to learn. Also, it works smoothly on iPad. This makes it good for beginners. However, some apps have more complex tools, which can be hard for new ones.

Hence, some apps focus more on professional design work, while others are better for casual drawing or cross-device use. So, the right choice depends on what you need and how you like to work.

App comparison

Is the Procreate app worth it for families and young creators?

Do you have a family where children are interested in drawing activities? If yes, the Procreate app is a good choice for you. Additionally, if you have older kids at home who can understand basic tools, it works best for them.

But families with very young children should know that the Procreate app may not be ideal for them. This app has some features that can be confusing for your young ones. In this situation, you should provide them simpler drawing apps. The simple drawing apps are easy to use. These apps help young ones to start artwork comfortably before moving to advanced tools.

Moreover, the Procraete app gives long-term benefits. When your children start developing their skills, they don’t need to move to other app. This app already offers many advanced tools. Plus, it is one-time purchase, so, it is cost-effective. This shows that your kids can be creative and develop their skills as they grow in digital art.

Is Procreate safe for kids?

Complex tools may confuse young children

The Procreate app has many complex tools. Its brushes and layers can be overwhelming sometimes. If your kids are very young, it can be frustrating for them. They may feel discouraged from creative arts. To save them from this frustration, you have to guide them or supervise them regularly.

Screen time concerns

Undoubtedly, the Procreate app is interesting to use. Due to which, your kids may not aware when to leave the app. It will lead them to higher screen time. In such a case, you need to set time limits on usage.

Sharing and online exposure risks

There is a sharing artwork option available in the tool. In many cases, children unintentionally share personal creations or information. As a solution, you can use tools like FlashGet Kids. It can help parents monitor app activity and control sharing options.

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