Procreate for MacBook: The Complete Guide to Digital Painting

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 19 June 2023 9 min read

Digital painting is a fantastic way to express your creativity, and Procreate for MacBook is a powerful tool to help you achieve your artistic goals. In this complete guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Procreate for MacBook, from getting started to advanced techniques and sharing your artwork with the world.

Getting Started with Procreate

Before you can start creating your digital masterpieces, you need to get acquainted with Procreate for MacBook. In this section, we will cover the installation process, the basics of the interface, and setting up your first canvas.

Installing Procreate on MacBook

As of now, Procreate is not available as a native macOS app. However, with the release of Apple's M1 chip, it is possible to run the iPad version of Procreate on MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini models with the M1 chip. Simply follow these steps:

Open the Mac App Store on your MacBook.
Search for "Procreate" in the search bar.
Click on the "iPad & iPhone Apps" tab.
Download and install Procreate on your MacBook.

Note: Keep in mind that Procreate for MacBook, when running the iPad version, might not perform as smoothly as it does on an iPad. Some features may not work as expected or may be unavailable altogether.

Understanding the Interface

Procreate's interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for you to jump right into your art. Here are some key elements of the interface:

Toolbar: Located at the top of the screen, the toolbar contains essential tools such as brushes, eraser, smudge, and layers.
Canvas: The central area where you will create your artwork. You can zoom in and out, rotate, and move the canvas as needed.
Color Picker: Located in the top right corner, the color picker allows you to choose from a wide range of colors or create custom ones.
Brush Library: Accessible from the toolbar, the brush library contains a variety of brushes, organized into categories. You can also create and import custom brushes.
Layers Panel: Also accessible from the toolbar, the layers panel allows you to create and manage layers, adjust opacity, and apply blending modes.

Setting Up Your First Canvas

Now that you're familiar with the interface, it's time to set up your first canvas and start painting. Follow these steps to create a new canvas:

Click on the "+" icon in the top right corner of the gallery view.
Select a predefined canvas size or create a custom size by entering the dimensions in pixels, inches, or centimeters.
Adjust the DPI (dots per inch) if needed. Higher DPI values result in better print quality, but larger file sizes.
Click "Create" to open your new canvas.

With your canvas ready, you can now begin painting using the various tools and brushes available in Procreate for MacBook. Happy creating!

Procreate Tools and Features

Procreate for MacBook offers a wide array of tools and features that will help you bring your artistic vision to life. In this section, we will explore brushes, layers, and color options to enhance your digital painting experience.

Brushes and Brush Library

Brushes are an essential part of digital painting, and Procreate for MacBook comes with an extensive brush library to suit any style or technique. Here are some tips for using brushes:

Accessing Brushes: Click on the brush icon in the toolbar to open the brush library.
Categories: Brushes are organized into categories such as painting, drawing, and textures. Explore each category to find the best brush for your needs.
Customization: You can adjust brush settings like size, opacity, and pressure sensitivity by clicking on a brush and tweaking its properties.
Importing and Sharing: Procreate allows you to import brushes from other artists or share your own creations with the community.

Layers and Blending Modes

Layers are a powerful feature in Procreate for MacBook that allows you to work on different parts of your painting without affecting the rest of the image. Here's what you need to know about layers:

Creating Layers: Click on the layers icon in the toolbar to open the layers panel, then click the "+" button to create a new layer.
Reordering and Grouping: Drag and drop layers to reorder them, or group multiple layers by selecting them and clicking the "Group" button.
Opacity and Blending Modes: Adjust layer opacity using the slider, and explore blending modes like multiply, overlay, and screen to create various effects.
Masks and Clipping Masks: Use masks to hide or reveal parts of a layer, or apply a clipping mask to constrain your painting to a specific area.

Color Palette and Color Picker

Choosing the right colors is crucial for creating visually appealing artwork. Procreate for MacBook offers a versatile color picker and customizable color palettes to help you find the perfect hues for your project:

Accessing the Color Picker: Click on the color circle in the top right corner to open the color picker.
Color Selection: Choose a color using the color wheel, sliders, or by entering a specific color value (RGB, HSB, or HEX).
Palettes: Save your favorite colors by creating custom palettes. To add a color to a palette, simply tap and hold an empty square, then select the desired color.
Eyedropper Tool: Quickly pick a color from your canvas by pressing and holding the Option (⌥) key and clicking on the desired color.

With these tools and features at your disposal, you can create stunning digital paintings using Procreate for MacBook. In the next section, we'll dive into some advanced painting techniques to take your skills to the next level.

Advanced Painting Techniques

Now that you're familiar with the basic tools and features of Procreate for MacBook, let's explore some advanced painting techniques to elevate your artwork and hone your skills.

Custom Brush Creation

Creating your own custom brushes in Procreate for MacBook allows you to tailor your tools to your specific needs and style. Here's how to get started with custom brush creation:

New Brush: In the brush library, click the "+" button at the top right corner to create a new brush.
Shape and Grain: Choose or import a shape and grain source to define the brush's appearance and texture.
Settings: Adjust properties like spacing, scatter, and rotation to control your brush's behavior and appearance.
Testing and Fine-Tuning: Use the preview panel to test your brush and make adjustments as needed for optimal performance.

Applying Textures and Effects

Textures and effects can add depth and realism to your digital paintings in Procreate for MacBook. Here are some techniques to consider:

Texture Brushes: Use texture brushes from the brush library or create your own to add visual interest to your artwork.
Blending Modes: Experiment with different blending modes on your layers to achieve unique effects and interactions between colors.
Layer Masks: Apply textured layer masks to selectively reveal or hide parts of a layer, adding depth and complexity to your piece.
Filters: Utilize Procreate's built-in filters, such as Gaussian blur, noise, and sharpen, to enhance your artwork's overall appearance.

Digital Painting Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Procreate for MacBook experience:

Zoom and Rotate: Use pinch gestures to zoom in and out or rotate your canvas for easier and more precise painting.
Shortcuts: Learn and use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow and increase efficiency.
Mirroring and Symmetry: Enable the symmetry tool to create perfectly symmetrical artwork or explore interesting patterns and shapes.
Reference Images: Use the built-in reference panel to display reference images directly on your canvas while you work.

By incorporating these advanced techniques into your digital painting process, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning, professional-quality artwork using Procreate for MacBook. In the following section, we'll discuss how to export and share your creations with the world.

Once you've put the finishing touches on your digital masterpiece in Procreate for MacBook, it's time to share it with others! In this section, we'll go over the various exporting and sharing options available to you.

Exporting Formats and Options

Procreate for MacBook offers several file formats for exporting your artwork, each with its own set of benefits and use cases. Here's a quick rundown of the most common formats:

PNG: Great for preserving transparency and maintaining quality, but can result in larger file sizes.
JPEG: Ideal for sharing online due to smaller file sizes, but may result in some loss of quality and no transparency support.
PSD: Perfect for transferring your work to Adobe Photoshop, as it preserves layers and other information.
PDF: Suitable for printing and sharing, especially when text and vector elements are involved.

To export your artwork, simply click on the "Actions" menu (wrench icon) and then select "Share" to choose your desired file format and options.

Procreate for MacBook makes it easy to share your artwork directly to social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. To do this, follow these steps:

Click on the "Actions" menu (wrench icon) and select "Share."
Choose your preferred file format (usually JPEG or PNG for social media).
Select the social media platform you'd like to share your artwork on and follow the prompts to complete the sharing process.

Don't forget to use relevant hashtags and tag any inspiring artists or resources to increase your visibility and connect with the digital art community.

Printing and Merchandising

If you'd like to turn your digital artwork into physical prints or merchandise, Procreate for MacBook has you covered. Here are some tips to ensure the best results:

High-Resolution Canvas: Start with a high-resolution canvas to ensure your artwork looks crisp and clear when printed.
Color Profiles: Use the appropriate color profile (RGB for digital display, CMYK for print) to ensure accurate color reproduction.
Export Formats: Choose the right file format for your needs, such as PDF for print or PNG for merchandising (e.g., t-shirts, stickers).
Printing Services: Research and select a reputable printing service that specializes in art prints or merchandise to ensure the best quality results.

With these tips in mind, you'll be able to proudly display your Procreate for MacBook artwork in the physical world or even turn it into a source of income.

Lastly, let's explore some resources and sources of inspiration to help you continue growing and thriving as a digital artist using Procreate for MacBook.

Resources and Inspiration

As you continue your journey with Procreate for MacBook, it's essential to seek out resources and inspiration to keep your creativity flowing and improve your skills. In this section, we'll introduce you to some excellent tutorials, inspiring artists, and online communities to help you stay motivated and connected with other digital artists.

Procreate Tutorials and Courses

There are plenty of tutorials and courses available to help you master Procreate for MacBook. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist looking to expand your skillset, consider the following sources:

Procreate's Official YouTube Channel: Offers a wealth of tutorials and tips for users of all skill levels.
Online Learning Platforms: Websites like Skillshare, Udemy, and Domestika feature a variety of Procreate courses taught by professionals.
Artist YouTube Channels: Many digital artists share their Procreate techniques and tutorials on their YouTube channels, providing valuable insights and inspiration.

Remember to practice regularly and apply what you've learned to continue growing as a digital artist.

Inspiring Artists and Galleries

Following and studying the work of fellow digital artists can help you discover new techniques, styles, and perspectives. Here are some ways to find inspiring artists and galleries:

Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter are excellent sources for discovering digital artists and their work.
Art Websites: Websites like Behance, ArtStation, and DeviantArt showcase a wide range of digital art from artists around the world.
Local Galleries and Events: Attend art exhibitions, conventions, and meetups in your area to connect with local artists and view their work in person.

Don't be afraid to reach out to artists you admire and ask questions about their techniques and creative process — most are happy to share their knowledge and experiences.

Online Communities for Procreate Users

Joining online communities of Procreate users can provide you with a supportive environment to share your work, ask questions, and learn from others. Some popular communities include:

Procreate Forums: The official Procreate forums are an excellent place to connect with other users, ask questions, and share your work.
Facebook Groups: Many Procreate-related Facebook groups offer a space for users to discuss techniques, share artwork, and provide feedback.
Reddit: Subreddits like r/Procreate and r/DigitalPainting host discussions and artwork related to digital art and Procreate.

By engaging with these communities, you'll not only learn from your fellow artists but also find motivation and inspiration in their work and successes.

With these resources and sources of inspiration at your fingertips, you'll be well-equipped to continue exploring the world of digital painting with Procreate for MacBook. Happy painting!

If you're interested in learning more about animation using digital tools, check out the workshop titled 'Animating with Procreate and Photoshop' by Nyanza. This workshop provides a comprehensive guide to creating captivating animations using Procreate and Photoshop, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring animators and digital artists alike.