Procreate is a popular app that allows you to create art. The app has tons of tools to help you create whatever you want. To make the most of these tools, you need to first understand how they work in order to achieve your desired results.
Blending can be a common task in art, so Procreate offers many ways to achieve this effect. You can try different techniques to achieve the blending effect that you like.
Follow this guide to find the right blend for you and use it in your Procreate projects.
Blending with the Smudge Tool
You can create a blending effect using Procreate by using the smudge tools. To switch to this tool, tap on the hand icon at the top right. You can also tap and hold the brush to smudge.
The smudge tool can be used in any way you like, but the process of blending will remain the same. However, blending with your existing brush can make the blend look smoother and more professional. These are the steps to use the smudge tools effectively:
- You can blend what you want in one layer. This will stop you from blending outside of your drawing and allow you to be more precise.
- Start blending your drawing by selecting the Smudge Tool. If you are using your blend to create shadows, start with the shadow color. For an even blend, begin from the middle of both colors and work your way down in smaller strokes.
Remember that blending similar colors will make your end product look better. These colors are the opposite of complementary colors.
Blending with Gaussian Blur
- Gaussian blur is another option for blending. This tool can blur an entire layer, or just the areas you have drawn with your pencil. It is useful in many situations.
- To open the Adjustments Window, tap the magic wand icon in the upper-left corner.
- Select Layer or Pencil for blurring an entire layer.
- Select Layer to create a layer that will blend. Next, use the Pencil to draw the area that you want blended.
- You can adjust the blur by moving your finger up and down on the screen. Visibility percentages will go up if you move your finger upwards.
Gaussian blur is a great way to create a simple blend. You can change the intensity by using a single swipe.
Blending with Brushes
- Perhaps you would like to have more control over the appearance of your blend. You can achieve a controlled, great blend by simply using brushes. This technique is great for experimentation.
- Choose the brush that you wish to blend with.
- Adjust the sliders to low and place the bottom Opacity slider on the left-hand sidebar.
- Select the color that you would like to use for your blending color and then lightly draw in the direction that you want.
Blending with brushes leaves you less chance of making mistakes and allows you to create the exact blend you desire. You can also change the settings of your brush to create a variety of effects.
Tips to Blend in Procreate
These tips will help you get the best out of your blending, and reduce the mistakes you make. You can choose the one that works best for your project.
Use Pressure
Use an Apple pencil when drawing with it. The more you press down, your brush strokes will take on more pressure. Blending is also a matter of pressure. Use lighter strokes to achieve the desired effect.
Use a clipping mask
Clipping masks can be a great way of keeping your original drawing intact while you blend. Add a layer to the Layers tab. Continue blending while keeping the top layer selected.
Clipping masks only affect the layer below it and allow you to make adjustments to that layer without changing the original drawing. This is a great way of making blending errors easier.
Brush Types
The texture of your blend will be affected by the brush you use, whether you are using the smudge brush or the blender. Before you start blending, take a look at the different brush options to determine what kind of blend you want. You can use the Airbrushing section to create soft shadow-like blends.
If you don’t find what you are looking for, Procreate can create or add custom brushes.
Size of the Brush
You can create beautiful blends by adjusting the size of your brush to match what you are blending. A larger brush is ideal for smoother blends in larger areas.
For blending more intricately or for creating edges, a smaller brush size is best. You can easily change the size of your brush by moving the slider at the top left-hand sidebar.
Mixing on Procreate
Artists need to master the art of mixing to enhance their work. You can use it for many effects including shadows and gradients as well as textures. You can experiment with the techniques in your own pieces to discover what works best for you.
You can find more iPad art apps in our article on the top apps for artists.