Mastering the Symmetry Tool in Procreate: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 24 May 2023 11 min read

Ready to level up your digital art game with the symmetry tool in Procreate? In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about this versatile feature, from its basic functionality to advanced techniques. So grab your iPad and let's dive into the fascinating world of symmetrical designs!

Understanding the Symmetry Tool in Procreate

Before we start exploring how to use the symmetry tool in Procreate, let's first understand what it is and how it works. This handy feature can help you create intricate and harmonious designs with ease, making your digital art process even more enjoyable.

Symmetry Tool Basics: What It Is and How It Works

The symmetry tool in Procreate is a powerful feature that allows you to draw mirrored images with a single stroke. When you activate the tool, any mark you make on one side of the canvas will automatically be mirrored on the other side, creating a symmetrical design. This can save you time and ensure that your artwork is balanced and visually appealing.

Procreate offers several symmetry options to explore, including vertical, horizontal, and quadrant symmetry. You can even customize the symmetry settings to create unique designs that suit your artistic vision. Keep in mind that the symmetry tool works best with a well-organized canvas, so make sure to set up your workspace before diving into your symmetrical masterpiece.

Exploring Symmetry Options in Procreate

Once you've activated the symmetry tool in Procreate, you'll notice that you have several options to choose from. Here are the main symmetry options and what they can do for your artwork:

Vertical Symmetry: This option mirrors your strokes along a vertical axis, creating a left-right reflection of your design.
Horizontal Symmetry: This option mirrors your strokes along a horizontal axis, creating an up-down reflection of your design.
Quadrant Symmetry: This option mirrors your strokes in four sections, dividing the canvas into quadrants and reflecting your design in each one.
Radial Symmetry: This option allows you to draw symmetrical designs around a central point, creating a circular pattern.

Feel free to experiment with these options to see which one works best for your project. Remember, you can always switch between different symmetry modes as you work on your design.

Practical Applications of the Symmetry Tool

The symmetry tool in Procreate can help you create a wide range of beautiful, eye-catching designs. Here are a few practical applications of this feature:

Patterns and textures: Use the symmetry tool to create seamless patterns and interesting textures that can be used as backgrounds or design elements.
Logos and icons: Create symmetrical logos and icons for your branding or app design projects.
Character design: Achieve perfect symmetry in your character designs, ensuring balanced facial features and body proportions.
Mandalas and kaleidoscopic art: Use radial symmetry to create intricate mandalas and mesmerizing kaleidoscopic designs.

As you can see, the symmetry tool in Procreate offers endless possibilities for your digital art projects. So why not give it a try and see what amazing symmetrical designs you can create?

Using the Symmetry Tool Procreate Effectively

Now that we have a solid understanding of the symmetry tool in Procreate and its various applications, let's jump into how to use it effectively. In this section, we'll cover setting up your canvas, drawing techniques, and troubleshooting tips to help you create stunning symmetrical designs with ease.

Setting Up Your Canvas for Symmetrical Designs

Before you start using the symmetry tool procreate, it's important to set up your canvas properly. Here are some steps to follow:

Create a new canvas: Choose a suitable size for your project, keeping in mind that a larger canvas can accommodate more detail but may be slower to work with.
Activate the symmetry tool: Head to the Actions panel (wrench icon), select Canvas, and enable the "Drawing Guide" option. Tap "Edit Drawing Guide" and choose "Symmetry" from the list of guides.
Choose your symmetry mode: Select from vertical, horizontal, quadrant, or radial symmetry depending on your desired design.
Adjust the symmetry settings: Customize the symmetry axis, color, and opacity to suit your preferences. You can also adjust the "Assisted Drawing" option to control how strictly your strokes follow the symmetry guide.

Once you've set up your canvas, you're ready to start creating symmetrical masterpieces.

Drawing Techniques with the Symmetry Tool

With your canvas set up and the symmetry tool procreate activated, it's time to get drawing. Here are a few techniques to help you create amazing symmetrical designs:

Sketch first, refine later: Start by lightly sketching your design, then gradually add more detail and refinement as you progress. This approach helps you find the perfect balance and composition in your artwork.
Use layers wisely: Create separate layers for different parts of your design, such as the background, foreground, and any additional details. This allows you to edit and adjust individual elements without affecting the entire design.
Experiment with brushes: Try out different brushes and brush settings to achieve unique effects and textures in your symmetrical designs. Don't be afraid to mix and match brushes for a more dynamic look.
Embrace imperfections: While the symmetry tool procreate helps you create balanced designs, don't be afraid to add some intentional imperfections for a more organic and hand-drawn feel.

Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

As you work with the symmetry tool in Procreate, you might encounter some challenges. Here are a few troubleshooting tips and tricks to help you overcome them:

Adjust the "Assisted Drawing" settings if you find that your strokes are too rigid or constrained by the symmetry guide. Lowering the assisted drawing intensity can give you more freedom and control.
Zoom in and out to check your design from different perspectives, ensuring that your composition looks balanced and harmonious at various scales.
Use undo and redo (two-finger tap and three-finger tap, respectively) to quickly fix mistakes or make adjustments as needed. Remember, practice makes perfect, and it's normal to make adjustments as you hone your symmetrical drawing skills.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to mastering the symmetry tool procreate and creating stunning digital art.

Finding Inspiration for Symmetry Tool Procreate Projects

Now that you've got the hang of using the symmetry tool procreate, it's time to find inspiration for your symmetrical projects. Discovering new ideas and sources of inspiration is essential for every artist, and in this section, we'll explore various ways to spark your creativity and get those artistic juices flowing. Let's dive in!

Inspiring Artists Who Use Symmetry in Their Work

One of the best ways to find inspiration for your own symmetrical designs is to study the work of other artists. By observing how they utilize the symmetry tool procreate in their art, you can gain new insights and ideas for your projects. Some notable artists who have embraced symmetry in their work include:

M.C. Escher: Known for his mind-bending illustrations and tessellations, Escher's work is a great example of how symmetry can create visually stunning effects.
Andy Gilmore: This graphic designer specializes in kaleidoscopic and geometric art, using symmetry to create mesmerizing patterns and compositions.
Karin Newport: As a digital artist and designer, Newport creates intricate mandalas and symmetrical illustrations that showcase the beauty of balance and harmony.

Take some time to study these artists' work and see how they employ symmetry in their designs. You can then apply these concepts to your own symmetrical projects using the symmetry tool procreate.

Creative Prompts for Symmetrical Designs

Sometimes, all you need is a little nudge in the right direction to get your creativity flowing. Creative prompts can help you explore new ideas and expand your artistic horizons. Here are a few prompts to inspire your next symmetrical design using the symmetry tool procreate:

Nature-inspired: Draw inspiration from the natural world and create a symmetrical design based on plants, animals, or other natural elements.
Abstract patterns: Experiment with different shapes, lines, and colors to create an abstract, symmetrical pattern that stimulates the viewer's imagination.
Architecture: Use the symmetry tool procreate to design a balanced, architectural structure or cityscape.

Remember, the goal is to have fun and explore new artistic possibilities. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and push the boundaries of your creativity with these prompts.

Online Resources for Symmetry Tool Procreate Tutorials

Another great way to find inspiration and improve your skills with the symmetry tool procreate is to learn from online tutorials. The internet is filled with valuable resources and tutorials created by fellow artists, and here are a few places to start:

Procreate's official website: The creators of Procreate offer a wealth of information and tutorials to help you master the app and its features, including the symmetry tool.
YouTube: Search for symmetry tool procreate tutorials on YouTube to find a wide variety of video lessons from experienced artists.
Online art communities: Join forums or social media groups dedicated to Procreate or digital art in general, where you can ask questions, share your work, and learn from other artists.

By taking advantage of these resources, you'll not only improve your skills with the symmetry tool procreate but also broaden your artistic horizons and find inspiration for your symmetrical projects.

Advanced Symmetry Tool Techniques

As you become more comfortable with the symmetry tool procreate, you might find yourself craving new challenges and advanced techniques to elevate your symmetrical designs. In this section, we'll explore some exciting ways to push the boundaries of your creativity and take your symmetrical art to the next level. Let's get started!

Combining the Symmetry Tool with Other Procreate Features

One way to create a unique and dynamic symmetrical design is to combine the symmetry tool procreate with other features within the app. By integrating different tools, you can achieve impressive effects that will make your artwork stand out:

Blend Modes: Experiment with different blend modes on your layers to create interesting interactions between colors and textures in your symmetrical designs.
Clipping Masks: Use clipping masks to add intricate details, patterns, or textures to specific areas of your symmetrical art without affecting the entire piece.
Liquify: Apply the liquify tool to manipulate and warp your symmetrical designs, adding a touch of whimsy or movement to your artwork.

Remember, the key is to have fun and explore the endless possibilities that Procreate offers. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and try new combinations to create your own unique symmetrical masterpieces.

Using Custom Brushes for Unique Symmetrical Effects

Another way to add a personal touch to your symmetrical designs is by using custom brushes. Procreate offers a vast library of brushes, and you can even create your own to achieve the exact effects you're looking for. Here are some ideas to get you started with custom brushes and the symmetry tool procreate:

Texture brushes: Use brushes with unique textures to add depth and dimension to your symmetrical designs.
Pattern brushes: Create your own pattern brushes to apply intricate, repeating patterns within your symmetrical art, adding an extra layer of complexity.
Calligraphy brushes: Experiment with different calligraphy brushes to create eye-catching lettering or decorative elements in your symmetrical designs.

Custom brushes can make a world of difference in your artwork, so don't hesitate to explore and create brushes that perfectly suit your artistic style and needs.

Layer Management for Complex Symmetrical Designs

As you dive deeper into the world of symmetrical art, you may find yourself working on more complex designs that require careful layer management. Developing a system for organizing and managing your layers can significantly improve your workflow and help you maintain control over your artwork. Here are some tips for effective layer management with the symmetry tool procreate:

Label your layers: Give your layers descriptive names to easily identify their contents and keep track of your work.
Group layers: Organize related layers into groups, making it easier to find and work on specific elements of your design.
Use layer opacity: Adjust the opacity of your layers to create subtle variations in color and texture or to blend elements smoothly.

By implementing these layer management strategies, you'll be better equipped to handle complex symmetrical designs and maintain a smooth workflow with the symmetry tool procreate.

Now that you've learned some advanced techniques, it's time to share your symmetrical creations with the world. In the next section, we'll discuss the best ways to export, share, and showcase your artwork made with the symmetry tool procreate.

Now that you've experimented with advanced techniques and created stunning symmetrical designs, it's time to share your artwork with the world. In this section, we'll discuss the best ways to export, share, and showcase your creations made with the symmetry tool procreate. Let's dive in and learn how to present your art in the most effective way possible!

Exporting Your Artwork in Different Formats

Before sharing your symmetrical designs, it's essential to export your artwork in the right format. Procreate offers various export options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. Here's a quick overview of the most popular formats:

JPEG: This format is ideal for sharing your artwork on social media or websites, as it maintains a good balance between image quality and file size.
PNG: If you want to preserve transparency in your design or need a lossless format for printing, PNG is the way to go.
PSD: Choose this format if you plan to continue working on your artwork in Adobe Photoshop, as it maintains all your layers, groups, and blend modes.

By exporting your symmetrical art in the appropriate format, you'll ensure your work looks its best and can be easily shared or printed.

Social media platforms provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase your artwork made with the symmetry tool procreate. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your online presence:

Choose the right platform: Find the social media platforms that best fit your target audience and artistic style. Instagram, Pinterest, and Behance are popular options for visual artists.
Optimize your images: Ensure your artwork looks great on different devices and screen resolutions by exporting it at the right dimensions and file size for each platform.
Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, ask questions, and participate in relevant discussions to build a connection with your followers and other artists.

By actively sharing and engaging with your audience, you'll not only showcase your symmetrical designs but also build a supportive community around your work.

Building a Portfolio of Symmetrical Art

Creating a professional portfolio is crucial for showcasing your skills and attracting potential clients or art enthusiasts. Here are some tips for building an impressive portfolio of symmetrical art made with the symmetry tool procreate:

Curate your work: Select your best pieces that demonstrate your unique style and mastery of the symmetry tool procreate. Aim for quality over quantity.
Organize your portfolio: Arrange your artwork in a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate manner. Consider grouping pieces by theme, style, or technique.
Include context: Add a brief description for each piece, explaining your creative process, the tools used (including the symmetry tool procreate), and any relevant backstory or inspiration.

A well-organized and visually appealing portfolio will help you stand out in the competitive world of digital art and showcase your expertise with the symmetry tool procreate.

By following these tips, you'll effectively share your symmetrical creations with the world, build a strong online presence, and showcase your talents as an artist who masters the symmetry tool procreate. So go ahead, export your artwork, share it on social media, and build an impressive portfolio to let the world see the amazing symmetrical designs you can create with Procreate!

If you're looking to further enhance your Procreate skills after mastering the symmetry tool, don't miss the workshop 'Procreate Basics: Making Digital Art' by Sameera Maruvada. This comprehensive workshop will help you explore various aspects of digital art-making using Procreate, giving you a solid foundation to create stunning artwork on this versatile platform.