How to Remove Background on Procreate: 3 Easy Methods

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 19 June 2023 4 min read

When working with digital art, there might be a time when you need to remove a background on Procreate. If you're wondering how to remove background on Procreate, you're in the right place! In this blog post, we'll walk you through three easy methods to help you achieve a clean, professional-looking result. So, let's get started!

Method 1: Automatic Background Removal

This method is best for images with simple, solid backgrounds. With Procreate's Magic Wand Tool, you can quickly and easily remove the background from your image. Let's dive into the steps to see how to remove background on Procreate using this method.

Step 1: Select the Image Layer

First, open your image in Procreate and make sure the layer with the image is selected. In the Layers panel, tap on the layer thumbnail to ensure it's highlighted and active.

Step 2: Use the Magic Wand Tool

Next, tap on the "S" icon in the top menu to access the Selection Tool panel. Choose the "Automatic" option, which is represented by a magic wand icon. This tool will allow you to select areas of similar colors in your image.

Step 3: Adjust Tolerance and Delete

Now, tap on the background color you want to remove. You'll notice a dashed line outlining the selected area. To adjust the tolerance, slide your finger left or right on the screen. Higher tolerance values will select more colors, while lower values will be more precise. Once you're happy with the selection, tap the "Delete" button in the bottom menu to remove the background. And there you have it—now you know how to remove background on Procreate using the automatic method!

Method 2: Manual Background Removal

If the automatic method didn't quite cut it, don't worry! The manual background removal method gives you more control over the selection process. This method is particularly useful for images with complex backgrounds or if you want more precise results. Let's see how to remove background on Procreate using the manual approach.

Step 1: Choose the Selection Tool

First, make sure your image layer is selected in the Layers panel. Then, tap the "S" icon in the top menu to access the Selection Tool panel. This time, choose the "Freehand" option, which allows you to manually draw the selection around the object you want to keep.

Step 2: Trace the Object to Remove Background

Now, carefully trace around the object in your image using your finger or Apple Pencil. If you need to zoom in for more accuracy, pinch with two fingers on the screen. As you trace, you'll see a dashed line following your path. When you've completed the outline, connect the starting and ending points to close the selection.

Step 3: Invert Selection and Erase

Once you're happy with the selection, tap on the "Invert" button in the bottom menu. This will invert the selection so that everything except the object is selected. Now, simply tap the "Erase" button to remove the background. And just like that, you've learned how to remove background on Procreate using the manual method!

Method 3: Background Removal with a Mask

Our final method to remove background on Procreate involves using a mask. This technique is non-destructive, meaning you can easily revert or adjust your changes without affecting the original image. This method is perfect for those who want more flexibility in their editing process.

Step 1: Create a Clipping Mask Layer

First, ensure that your image layer is selected in the Layers panel. Then, tap the "+" icon to create a new layer above your image. Tap on the new layer and choose "Clipping Mask" from the options. This new layer will act as your mask, allowing you to paint the background away without deleting it permanently.

Step 2: Paint the Mask to Remove Background

Select the Clipping Mask layer and pick a brush from the Brushes panel. Choose a solid brush for large areas or a textured brush for a more natural effect. Now, set the brush color to black. As you paint on the Clipping Mask layer, the black color will "hide" the background, making it appear as if it's been removed. Remember, the more you paint, the more background you'll remove.

Step 3: Finalize and Adjust as Needed

Once you're satisfied with the results, you can merge the Clipping Mask layer with the image layer to finalize your changes. If you need to make adjustments or undo some of your painting, simply switch the brush color to white and paint over the areas you want to reveal again. This makes it easy to fine-tune your background removal without starting over.

And there you have it! Three easy methods on how to remove background on Procreate. Whether you choose automatic, manual, or masking techniques, Procreate offers powerful tools to help you achieve professional-looking results. Practice these methods and soon you'll be a background removal pro in no time!

If you're looking to improve your digital art skills and learn new techniques, don't miss the workshop 'How to Draw A Fruit In ProCreate' by Vicky Catalan. This workshop will guide you step-by-step on how to create realistic fruit illustrations using ProCreate, helping you enhance your creative portfolio.