Master Procreate Mirror Tool: Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Symmetry

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 24 May 2023 10 min read

Are you looking to elevate your digital art skills and create stunning symmetrical designs with ease? Look no further! This step-by-step guide will help you master the Procreate Mirror Tool and unlock your full artistic potential. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Procreate Mirror Tool

Before we start exploring the wonders of the Procreate Mirror Tool, it's crucial to understand what it is, why you should use it, and how it compares to other symmetry tools out there.

What is the Procreate Mirror Tool?

The Procreate Mirror Tool is an amazing feature in the Procreate app that enables you to create symmetrical designs effortlessly. By drawing on one side of the canvas, the tool automatically replicates your strokes on the other side, resulting in perfect symmetry. It's like having a twin who can read your mind and help you create art!

This powerful tool is not only useful for creating symmetrical patterns and designs but also for refining your skills in character design, mandala art, and more. So, if you're ready to level up your digital art game, the Procreate Mirror Tool is your new best friend.

Why Use the Procreate Mirror Tool?

Using the Procreate Mirror Tool can significantly speed up your design process and improve the quality of your work. Here's why:

Efficiency: The tool allows you to focus on one side of the canvas while simultaneously creating symmetry, cutting your drawing time in half.
Consistency: Achieving symmetry manually can be challenging, but the Procreate Mirror Tool ensures that both sides of your design are perfectly aligned.
Experimentation: With the Procreate Mirror Tool, you can easily explore new design ideas and create intricate patterns without getting bogged down in the details.

Procreate Mirror Tool vs. Other Symmetry Tools

While there are other symmetry tools available in various digital art applications, the Procreate Mirror Tool stands out due to its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the Procreate app. Here's how it compares to similar tools:

Adobe Illustrator: Adobe Illustrator does offer a symmetry tool called the "Reflect Tool," but it requires multiple steps to create symmetrical designs, whereas Procreate Mirror Tool works in real-time as you draw.
Clip Studio Paint: Clip Studio Paint has a symmetry tool, but the setup process can be more complicated for beginners compared to the Procreate Mirror Tool.
Autodesk Sketchbook: Autodesk Sketchbook provides a radial symmetry tool, but its functionality is limited compared to the Procreate Mirror Tool, which offers both vertical and horizontal symmetry options.

Now that we've established what the Procreate Mirror Tool is and why it's worth using, let's move on to setting it up and getting started with your symmetrical masterpiece.

Setting Up the Procreate Mirror Tool

Now that you're well-versed in the Procreate Mirror Tool's capabilities, it's time to set it up and start creating your symmetrical masterpiece. Don't worry; this process is as simple as it gets. Just follow these steps, and you'll be ready to draw in no time!

Accessing the Procreate Mirror Tool

First things first, let's access the Procreate Mirror Tool. Luckily, it's just a few taps away:

Open the Procreate app on your iPad.
Tap the "Actions" icon (the wrench) in the top left corner of the screen.
Select the "Canvas" tab from the Actions menu.
Toggle on the "Drawing Guide" option.
Tap "Edit Drawing Guide," and choose "Symmetry" from the available options.

And there you have it! The Procreate Mirror Tool is now active on your canvas, ready to help you create symmetrical designs.

Customizing Procreate Mirror Tool Settings

Now that you've activated the Procreate Mirror Tool, let's customize its settings to fit your unique artistic needs:

Choose the Symmetry Axis: Procreate Mirror Tool offers two symmetry options — Vertical and Horizontal. Select the one that best suits your design.
Adjust Opacity: You can change the opacity of the symmetry line to make it more or less visible, depending on your preference.
Toggle Assisted Drawing: Enabling "Assisted Drawing" will restrict your brush strokes to the symmetry axis, helping you maintain perfect symmetry. Disable it if you want to draw freely outside the axis.

Remember, you can always adjust these settings as you work, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect configuration for your project.

Creating a Symmetrical Canvas

With the Procreate Mirror Tool activated and customized, it's time to set up your canvas for symmetrical drawing. Here's how:

Create a new canvas in Procreate by tapping the "+" icon in the top right corner of the "Gallery" screen.
Select a canvas size that suits your project. Keep in mind that a square canvas works best for symmetrical designs, but feel free to choose any size you prefer.
Make sure the Procreate Mirror Tool is active on your new canvas by following the steps mentioned in the "Accessing the Procreate Mirror Tool" section.

With your canvas set up and the Procreate Mirror Tool ready to go, you're now all set to start creating stunning symmetrical designs!

As you embark on your journey with the Procreate Mirror Tool, remember to practice and experiment to truly master this powerful feature. In the next sections, we'll cover effective usage, tips for perfect symmetry, and creative ideas to inspire your work.

Using the Procreate Mirror Tool Effectively

Now that you have the Procreate Mirror Tool set up and ready to go, let's dive into some practical tips and tricks to ensure you're using it efficiently. From perfect symmetry to avoiding common pitfalls, this section will help you level up your Procreate Mirror Tool game.

Tips for Perfect Symmetry

When it comes to creating that flawless symmetrical design, a few simple techniques can make all the difference. Here are some pointers to keep in mind as you work with the Procreate Mirror Tool:

Start with a Light Sketch: Before diving into the details, create a rough sketch of your design. This will help you visualize the overall composition and make adjustments easily if needed.
Use Guides and Grids: Activate the built-in grid or create your own custom guides to help maintain alignment and consistency throughout your design.
Zoom In and Out: Regularly zoom in for intricate details and zoom out to check the overall symmetry of your design. This will help you spot any inconsistencies and make corrections as needed.
Adjust Brush Settings: Experiment with different brush settings, such as size and opacity, to achieve the desired level of detail and precision in your work.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you work with the Procreate Mirror Tool, the more comfortable and skilled you'll become in creating symmetric designs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As with any tool, there are some common mistakes artists make when using the Procreate Mirror Tool. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them and improve your overall results:

Overreliance on the Tool: While the Procreate Mirror Tool is powerful, don't forget to use other tools and techniques to enhance your design. Incorporating different elements can add depth and variety to your work.
Ignoring Balance: Symmetry is all about balance. Ensure that your design is visually balanced by considering the size, shape, and placement of elements on both sides of the symmetry axis.
Not Saving Your Work: Remember to save your work regularly, especially when making significant changes. This way, you can always revert to a previous version if needed.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be well on your way to mastering the Procreate Mirror Tool and creating impressive symmetrical designs.

Procreate Mirror Tool Shortcuts

Speed up your workflow and enhance your efficiency with these handy Procreate Mirror Tool shortcuts:

Quick Toggle: To quickly enable or disable the Procreate Mirror Tool, simply tap on the symmetry line with two fingers.
Adjust Symmetry Line: Need to move the symmetry axis? Just tap and drag the blue handle to reposition it as desired.
Lock Symmetry Line: To prevent accidental adjustments, tap the lock icon on the symmetry line to lock its position.

By incorporating these shortcuts into your creative process, you'll be able to work more efficiently and focus on bringing your symmetrical designs to life.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge to effectively use the Procreate Mirror Tool, it's time to explore the endless creative possibilities it offers. In the following section, we'll discuss some inspiring ideas and applications of the Procreate Mirror Tool to help spark your creativity.

Creative Ideas with the Procreate Mirror Tool

With a solid understanding of the Procreate Mirror Tool and some best practices in place, it's time to unleash your creativity and explore the diverse range of designs and artworks you can create. This section will present three popular applications of the Procreate Mirror Tool, each with its unique challenges and rewards. Let's dive in!

Symmetrical Pattern Designs

One popular and visually captivating application of the Procreate Mirror Tool is in creating symmetrical pattern designs. These designs can be as simple or complex as you like, depending on your personal style and desired outcome. Here are a few tips to help you create stunning pattern designs:

Start Small: Begin with simple shapes and repeat them across the canvas, building up complexity over time. This approach can help you maintain consistency and balance in your design.
Vary the Elements: Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors to add visual interest and diversity to your pattern. This will help ensure your design remains engaging and dynamic.

Once you're comfortable with the basics, challenge yourself by experimenting with more intricate patterns and incorporating additional symmetry axes using the Procreate Mirror Tool.

Mandala Art Creations

Mandala art is another popular application of the Procreate Mirror Tool, as it relies heavily on symmetry and repetition. Creating mandala art can be a therapeutic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the creative process and produce beautiful, intricate designs. To begin creating mandala art, consider the following tips:

Choose a Center Point: Start by selecting a center point for your mandala, which will serve as the anchor for your symmetrical design. This can be anywhere on the canvas, depending on your desired composition.
Work Outward: As you design your mandala, work from the center outwards, adding layers of detail and complexity to create a harmonious, balanced composition.

Feel free to experiment with different shapes, colors, and textures in your mandala designs, and remember to utilize the Procreate Mirror Tool to ensure perfect symmetry throughout.

Portrait and Character Design

The Procreate Mirror Tool isn't limited to abstract designs—it can also be a powerful tool for creating symmetrical portraits and character designs. Whether you're working on a realistic portrait or a whimsical character, the Procreate Mirror Tool can help you achieve balance and consistency in your work. Consider these tips when working on portraits and character designs:

Use Reference Images: When creating a portrait or character design, using reference images can help guide your work and ensure accuracy. You can also use the Procreate Mirror Tool to create a symmetrical base for your design and then add asymmetrical details later for a more natural look.
Focus on Facial Features: Pay close attention to the symmetry of facial features, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth. This will help you create a more convincing and visually balanced design.

Remember, while perfect symmetry can be useful in creating a foundation for your character or portrait, don't be afraid to break away from it to add character and individuality to your design.

With these creative ideas in mind, you're ready to explore the endless possibilities the Procreate Mirror Tool has to offer. As you continue to develop your skills and experiment with new techniques, you'll discover even more ways to create stunning, symmetrical designs. So, grab your iPad and start creating!

Expanding Your Procreate Mirror Tool Skills

As you continue to explore the amazing capabilities of the Procreate Mirror Tool, it's important to keep learning and expanding your skills to make the most of this remarkable feature. In this section, we'll dive into advanced techniques, integration with other tools, and valuable resources to further enhance your proficiency with the Procreate Mirror Tool.

Advanced Procreate Mirror Tool Techniques

Once you've gained confidence with the basics, it's time to take your Procreate Mirror Tool skills to the next level. Here are a few advanced techniques to try:

Multi-Axis Symmetry: By default, the Procreate Mirror Tool works with two axes of symmetry. However, you can increase the number of axes to create more intricate and complex designs. Simply adjust the "Symmetry Options" in the settings to increase the number of axes and experiment with various combinations.
Radial Symmetry: This technique involves creating symmetrical designs that radiate from a central point, similar to the spokes of a wheel. To create radial symmetry, increase the number of axes in the "Symmetry Options" and ensure that the "Rotational Symmetry" setting is enabled.

Remember to maintain a balance between complexity and readability in your designs, as excessively intricate patterns can overwhelm the viewer.

Integrating Procreate Mirror Tool with Other Tools

Becoming proficient with the Procreate Mirror Tool means knowing how to integrate it seamlessly with other tools and features within the Procreate app. Here are some tips on how to do just that:

Layers: Utilize layers to create complex designs without affecting your original drawing. For instance, you can create a symmetrical base using the Procreate Mirror Tool on one layer and add asymmetrical details on a separate layer. This way, you can maintain the overall symmetry while adding unique elements to your design.
Blend Modes: Combine the Procreate Mirror Tool with various blend modes to produce interesting visual effects. For example, use the "Multiply" blend mode to create darker areas where your mirrored drawings overlap, or try the "Screen" blend mode for a lighter effect.

Experiment with different combinations of tools and features to discover new and exciting possibilities for your artwork.

Learning Resources for Procreate Mirror Tool

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. To further develop your expertise with the Procreate Mirror Tool, it's crucial to seek out learning resources and continuously challenge yourself. Here are some ideas for finding valuable information and inspiration:

Procreate Community: Connect with other Procreate users on social media platforms and online forums. Share your work, ask questions, and learn from fellow artists who are also exploring the Procreate Mirror Tool. You'll be amazed at the wealth of knowledge and ideas that can be found within these communities.
Tutorials: Look for Procreate Mirror Tool tutorials on platforms like YouTube, where experienced artists share their tips and tricks through detailed, step-by-step guides. These tutorials can help you learn new techniques and expand your creative horizons.

By dedicating time and effort to learning and practicing, you'll become a Procreate Mirror Tool master in no time, unlocking the full potential of this powerful feature and taking your artwork to new heights.

If you enjoyed mastering the Procreate Mirror Tool and are eager to dive deeper into the world of digital art, don't miss the workshop 'Procreate Basics: Making Digital Art' by Sameera Maruvada. This workshop will help you build a strong foundation in Procreate, enabling you to create stunning digital art with confidence and ease.