Procreate on PC: How to Get Started and Best Alternatives

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 6 min read

Imagine having the power to bring your artistic visions to life, right from the comfort of your PC. That's precisely what Procreate allows you to do. Although designed for iOS, there are ways to utilize Procreate on your PC and this guide will walk you through it. We'll also touch on some terrific alternatives you might consider. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive into the world of Procreate on PC.

Getting Started with Procreate on PC

Before we start, it is important to understand that Procreate is designed for iOS, meaning it's not natively available on PCs. However, with a little bit of ingenuity, you can make it work. Here's how:

Download and Install Procreate on PC

First things first, you need to get Procreate on your PC. As Procreate is not directly downloadable on PC, you'll need an iOS emulator, such as iPadian or MobiOne Studios, to bridge the gap. After installing the emulator, you can then download Procreate from the App Store. Remember to follow the emulator's instructions closely to avoid any hiccups.

Navigate the Procreate Interface

Once you've got Procreate installed, it's time to familiarize yourself with the interface. The toolbar, located at the top of the screen, is your gateway to the various tools and features of Procreate. Here's where you can select brushes, erasers, layers, and more. The more you play around, the more comfortable you'll become.

Create Your First Project

With the basics out of the way, you can now start your first Procreate project. Click on the '+' icon on the top right corner of the screen to start a new canvas. From there, you can select your brush, color, and begin painting or sketching. Don't worry about making mistakes — Procreate has an undo feature that's as simple as tapping with two fingers.

Running Procreate on PC might seem a bit unorthodox, but with a little patience and creativity, it's entirely possible. Enjoy the process, and before you know it, you'll be creating stunning digital art in no time.

Best Procreate Alternatives for PC

While Procreate is an amazing tool, it's not the only game in town, especially when it comes to PC users. Here are some alternatives you might consider:

Explore Krita

First up, let's talk about Krita. It's a free, open-source program designed for digital artists. With its myriad features, such as brush stabilizers and a pop-up palette, Krita is a solid alternative to Procreate. Plus, it's absolutely free, which means you can take it for a spin without spending a dime.

Try Out MediBang Paint

Next on our list is MediBang Paint. This cloud-based software is all about ease and accessibility. With over 50 brushes, numerous fonts, and a host of cloud features, MediBang Paint allows you to work on your art anytime, anywhere. And guess what? It's free too!

Consider Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop needs no introduction. As the industry's leading graphic design software, Photoshop is a powerhouse of features and tools. It might be a bit more complex than Procreate, but once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are nearly endless. It's not free, but considering the capabilities it provides, it's worth every penny.

Give a Shot to CorelPainter

Last but not least, we have CorelPainter. Known for its realistic brushes and rich textures, CorelPainter is a favorite among professional artists. It's not free, but with a comprehensive library of tutorials available, it's a worthy investment for serious artists.

While Procreate has its unique offerings, these alternatives provide a robust set of tools that can help you create stunning digital art on your PC. Test them out, see which one fits your style, and let your creativity run wild!

Tips for Using Procreate on PC

So, you've decided to jump into the digital art world with Procreate on PC. To make your creative journey smoother, here are a few handy tips you should know.

Optimize Your Workspace

First off, a clean workspace is key. Ensure all your tools are within easy reach and your screen is clear of unnecessary distractions. If you're using a drawing tablet, make sure it's positioned comfortably. Remember, a comfortable workspace is a productive workspace.

Learn Shortcut Keys

Next, familiarize yourself with shortcut keys. Shortcut keys can speed up your workflow dramatically. Want to undo an action? There's a shortcut for that. Need to resize your brush? There's a shortcut for that too. The more shortcuts you know, the faster you can bring your ideas to life.

Use Layers Effectively

Lastly, make the most of layers. Layers are like digital tracing paper: you can stack them, rearrange them, and even change their transparency. Want to experiment with a new idea but don't want to ruin your work? Just add a new layer. Layers give you the flexibility to try new things without fear.

Whether you're a newbie or an experienced artist, these tips can help you make the most of Procreate on PC. Remember, the goal is to create, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun!

Troubleshooting Common Procreate Issues

Even with a tool as sleek as Procreate on PC, you might occasionally encounter a hiccup or two. But no worries, most issues are easily resolved. Let's get into some common problems and how to fix them.

Resolve Installation Issues

Having trouble installing Procreate on your PC? It could be due to an outdated operating system or insufficient storage space. Make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Procreate, and that you have enough free space on your hard drive. If you're still having trouble, try restarting your computer and running the installation process again.

Handle Permission Errors

Permission errors can be a pain, but they're usually easy to sort out. If you're getting a message that Procreate can't access certain files or directories, check your system's permission settings. Make sure that Procreate is allowed to read and write files in the necessary locations.

Fix Performance Issues

Experiencing slow loading times or lagging brushes? This could be due to too many apps running in the background or a heavy project file. Try closing some apps to free up memory. If your project has lots of layers or high-resolution images, consider merging some layers or reducing the image size. Remember, a little housekeeping can go a long way in keeping Procreate on PC running smoothly.

These are just a few solutions for some common issues. If you're still having trouble, don't fret — help is always out there!

Getting Help with Procreate on PC

While Procreate on PC is designed to be user-friendly, sometimes you might need a little extra assistance. If you're stuck or just want to learn more, consider the following resources.

Follow Online Tutorials

Online tutorials are a great way to learn the ins and outs of Procreate on PC. They can guide you through everything from basic navigation to advanced techniques. You might find that seeing someone else use the program can unlock new ways of thinking about how to use it yourself. So, why not give them a try?

Join Procreate Communities

There's nothing like learning from others who are passionate about the same things you are. By joining Procreate communities, you can share your own knowledge, learn from others, and even find some inspiration for your next project. There are plenty of online forums and social media groups dedicated to Procreate users — you're not alone in your creative journey.

Contact Procreate Support

When all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to Procreate's support team. They're there to help you overcome any issues you might encounter while using Procreate on PC. Plus, they can provide useful tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the software.

Remember, every artist starts somewhere, and it's okay to ask for help. After all, it's all part of the learning process.

If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of Procreate and digital art, don't miss the workshop 'Procreate Basics: Making Digital Art' by Sameera Maruvada. This workshop will guide you through the essentials of Procreate and help you unlock your full potential as a digital artist. Expand your creative horizons and master the art of Procreate today!