5 Practical Ways to Create Outlines in Procreate

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 6 min read

Whether you're a budding artist or a seasoned illustrator, understanding how to outline in Procreate can significantly enhance your digital artistry. This user-friendly app, armed with a multitude of tools and features, can transform the way you create art. But before you can leverage its potential to create stunning outlines, you need a solid grasp of its basics. So let's jump in and explore five practical ways to create outlines in Procreate.

1. Get Familiar with Procreate

First things first, you need to get comfortable with Procreate. This digital illustration app may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but you'll get the hang of it in no time. Here's how to navigate the Procreate terrain.

Explore the Interface

Procreate's interface is clean and intuitive. At the top, you'll find the Actions, Adjustments, and Brushes panels. On the right, you'll see the Layers and Colors menus. Familiarizing yourself with this layout is the first step in understanding how to outline in Procreate.

Understand the Tools

Next, you'll want to understand the various tools Procreate offers. Some key ones include the Smudge tool for blending, the Eraser tool for correction, and the Brush tool for drawing and outlining. Each tool has a unique role in the outlining process.

Experiment with Layers

Lastly, but most importantly, you must get a handle on using layers. Think of layers as transparent sheets stacked on top of each other. You can draw on each layer independently, allowing for easier edits and adjustments. More importantly, this feature is a game-changer when it comes to outlining. For instance, you can sketch a rough outline on one layer, then add a clean, final outline on a new layer — giving you the freedom to experiment without compromising your original artwork.

Remember, the more comfortable you are navigating Procreate, the easier it will be to create outlines. So take your time, play around, and get to know the app. After all, every great artist needs to know their tools inside out!

2. Master the Art of Simple Outlines

Once you're familiar with Procreate's interface and tools, it's time to master the art of simple outlines. But how do you create captivating outlines in Procreate? Here are a few tips to get you started.

Learn Basic Shapes

Creating complex outlines is easier if you first master the art of drawing simple shapes. Procreate has a feature called QuickShape that can help you draw perfect circles, squares, and triangles. Use this tool to practice drawing basic shapes and turn these into more complex forms. Remember, every complex object can be broken down into simpler shapes. Mastering these shapes can make your outlining process smoother.

Practice Line Art

Line art is a fundamental skill in outlining. It involves creating a coherent image using only distinct straight and curved lines. In Procreate, you can use the Streamline setting under the Brush panel to smoothen your strokes and create clean lines. The more you practice, the more confident and precise your line art will become. It's all about steady hand movements, so don’t rush!

Play with Curves and Angles

Outlining isn't just about flat lines; it's also about curves and angles. Experiment with them to add depth and dimension to your outlines. Try adjusting the brush pressure to create variations in your lines. A heavier pressure can produce thicker lines, while a lighter touch can give finer lines. This can make your outlines more dynamic and interesting.

Mastering simple outlines is the backbone of any good illustration. Invest some time in this skill, and you’ll be well on your way to understanding how to outline in Procreate.

3. Dive into Advanced Outline Techniques

After you’ve honed your basic outlining skills, it's time to dive into more advanced techniques. This is where you can really start to make your outlines pop and take your Procreate artwork to the next level.

Try Different Line Weights

One of the ways to add depth and interest to your outlines in Procreate is to play with different line weights. Using varied line weights can add a sense of depth and emphasis to different parts of your image. The key is to use heavier lines for the parts of your image that are closer or more important, and lighter lines for those that are further away or less important. This technique can really help your art stand out.

Add Shadows and Highlights

Another advanced technique to master is the addition of shadows and highlights. This is a great way to give your outlines a three-dimensional feel. In Procreate, you can use the Airbrushing tool to add shadows and highlights. Try using a darker color for shadows and a lighter color for highlights. Remember, shadows and highlights are not just about adding depth—they can also help guide the viewer's eye around your piece.

Experiment with Colors

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with colors. While black is the traditional color for outlines, using different colors can add a unique touch to your work. For example, using a darker shade of the object's color for its outline can create a soft and cohesive look. On the other hand, using contrasting colors can make your outlines more vibrant and eye-catching. It's all about what suits your style and the mood of your piece.

These advanced techniques can add depth, interest, and personality to your outlines. Keep practicing and experimenting, and soon you'll find your own unique way of outlining in Procreate.

4. Create Dynamic Outlines with Brushes

Brushes are your best buddies when it comes to creating outlines in Procreate. They can add texture, depth and dynamics to your lines. Let's see how you can use brushes to your advantage.

Understand Brush Types

First, it's important to understand the different types of brushes available in Procreate. There are many types, from the crisp and clean Studio Pen, to the textured and rough 6B Pencil. Each brush has its own unique qualities and can add a distinct feel to your outlines. Experiment with different brush types to see the effects they create. The Studio Pen, for example, is great for creating smooth, clean lines, while the 6B Pencil is perfect for a sketchy, hand-drawn feel.

Customize Your Brushes

One of the great things about Procreate is the ability to customize your brushes. This means you can adjust things like size, opacity, and even the texture of your brush. For instance, you might find that a larger brush size works better for outlining larger objects, while a smaller brush size is better for detailing. Customizing your brushes allows you to tailor your tools to your specific needs, helping you create the perfect outline.

Practice with Different Brushes

Finally, the key to mastering any tool, including brushes, is practice. Try outlining with different brushes to see how they affect your work. You might find that a certain brush gives you more control over your lines, or that another adds an interesting texture to your outlines. As you practice, you'll start to develop a sense of which brushes work best for different aspects of your art.

Remember, creating dynamic outlines in Procreate is all about understanding and mastering your tools. With a good grasp of brushes and a bit of practice, you'll be creating stunning outlines in no time.

5. Refine Your Skills with Practice

While Procreate offers a plethora of tools to help you create the perfect outline, the most important tool in your arsenal is practice. Just like learning a new language or mastering a musical instrument, refining your art skills takes time and consistent effort. Let's look into how you can effectively refine your outlining skills in Procreate.

Draw Every Day

They say practice makes perfect, and this couldn't be more true when it comes to outlining in Procreate. Make it a habit to draw every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. This will not only improve your outlining skills but also help you become more familiar with Procreate's tools and features. Over time, you'll find that the things that once seemed challenging become second nature.

Join Online Challenges

Participating in online challenges can be a fun way to push your skills to the limit. These challenges, often found on social media platforms, offer prompts that can spark your creativity and help you think outside the box. Not only will you get to practice your outlining skills, but you'll also get to see how other artists approach the same prompt — a great way to learn new techniques!

Seek Feedback

Feedback is an invaluable tool for growth. Don't shy away from asking for feedback on your work. This could be from friends, family, or even online art communities. Constructive criticism can pinpoint areas you could improve, and praises can boost your confidence and motivate you to keep improving. Remember, every artist was once a beginner, and every piece of art is a stepping stone on your journey to mastering how to outline in Procreate.

In conclusion, refining your skills in Procreate is a continuous journey of learning and practice. Keep drawing, experimenting, and most importantly, enjoying the process. With time and dedication, you'll see your outlines improve and evolve — happy outlining!

If you enjoyed learning practical ways to create outlines in Procreate, you'll definitely want to check out the workshop 'How to Draw A Fruit In ProCreate' by Vicky Catalan. This workshop will teach you the techniques and tips you need to bring your digital art to life, starting with drawing a simple fruit. Enhance your Procreate skills and take your digital artwork to the next level!