Procreate Sketching
Bubble
Skill
Procreate Sketching is a vibrant community of digital artists who use the iPad app Procreate for freehand sketching, sharing techniques...Show more
Procreate Sketching
Bubble
Skill
Procreate Sketching is a vibrant community of digital artists who use the iPad app Procreate for freehand sketching, sharing techniques, custom brushes, and time-lapse demonstrations.
Statistics
Estimated Global Reach
1.3M
Popularity
Medium
Regional Hotspot
Worldwide
General Q&A
Procreate Sketching centers on using the Procreate app for expressive, intuitive digital drawing on iPad, emphasizing creative exploration, personal style, and seamless art workflows.
Community Q&A
Procreate Sketching centers on using the Procreate app for expressive, intuitive digital drawing on iPad, emphasizing creative exploration, personal style, and seamless art workflows.
Artists gather through Instagram hashtags, YouTube tutorials, Discord groups, and online forums, creating vibrant spaces for collaborative learning and supportive feedback.
Community Q&A
Summary
Key Findings
Brush Prestige
Identity MarkersMastering or creating custom brushes signals status and expertise, turning brush packs into coveted insider currency within Procreate Sketching.
Update Evangelism
Opinion ShiftsNew Procreate feature releases rapidly spark community-wide waves of excitement, experimentation, and intense workflow adaptation discussions.
Layered Critiques
Insider PerspectiveFeedback often revolves around layer management techniques and subtle digital methods, revealing a nuanced appreciation for digital sketching depth unseen by outsiders.
Public Process
Communication PatternsSharing time-lapse videos is a normative ritual, blending transparency, teaching, and self-promotion in a uniquely collaborative yet personal display.
Sub Groups
Procreate Beginners
New users focused on learning the basics and sharing early sketches.
Brush Creators
Artists who design, share, and sell custom Procreate brushes.
Time-lapse Artists
Creators who specialize in sharing time-lapse videos of their Procreate sketching process.
Professional Illustrators
Artists using Procreate for client work, portfolio development, and professional networking.
Local Sketch Groups
Small, often Meetup-organized groups that gather for in-person sketching sessions.
Statistics and Demographics
Platform Distribution
1 / 4
Instagram
24%Instagram is a primary platform for digital artists to showcase Procreate sketches, share process videos, and connect with a large art-focused audience.
Reddit
14%Reddit hosts active Procreate-specific subreddits where users share artwork, techniques, and resources.
Discord
14%Discord servers provide real-time chat, critique, and community engagement for Procreate artists, including brush sharing and live sketch sessions.
Gender & Age Distribution
Ideological & Social Divides
Community Development
Discover Similar Bubbles
Insider Knowledge
Terminology
Greeting Salutations
Example Conversation
Insider
Brush on, friend!
Outsider
Huh? What do you mean by that?
Insider
It’s a way to say 'keep creating!' We use brush-related phrases to encourage each other, since our tools revolve around digital brushes.
Outsider
Oh, that’s a nice and creative way to greet each other!
Cultural Context
Greeting using brush metaphors reflects the central role of brush tools in Procreate sketching, symbolizing encouragement and shared passion.
Inside Jokes
"Did you apply Alpha Lock before shading?"
This joke references a common rookie mistake where shading is done outside the lines. Alpha Lock is critical for neat coloring, so forgetting it is a frequent source of light-hearted teasing among community members.
Facts & Sayings
„Layers are life“
This phrase emphasizes how crucial the use of layers is in Procreate for organizing sketches and enabling non-destructive editing.
„QuickShape it!“
A call to use the QuickShape feature to instantly perfect shapes in sketches, highlighting an important efficiency tool.
„Alpha Lock everything“
Encourages locking transparency on layers so artists can paint or shade only existing strokes without affecting the rest of the canvas.
„Brush Studio magic“
Refers to the excitement and almost mystical quality of creating or customizing brushes within Procreate's Brush Studio.
Unwritten Rules
Always name your layers clearly.
Clear layer names help collaborators understand workflow choices and make feedback or edits easier.
Share brush packs and give credit.
Respecting creators by acknowledging source artists of brush sets maintains community trust and fosters collaboration.
Use high enough canvas resolution for portfolio work.
Working in adequate resolution ensures quality prints or professional submission-ready files, a habit valued by the community.
Respect critique etiquette — be constructive, not harsh.
Supportive and thoughtful feedback is essential to learning and maintaining positive community dynamics.
Fictional Portraits
1 / 3
Lena, 27
graphic designerfemaleLena is a young professional graphic designer who uses Procreate to experiment with sketching ideas and share her process on social media.
CreativityCommunity SupportContinuous Learning
Motivations
- Improving artistic skills
- Sharing creative process
- Building an online portfolio
Challenges
- Finding time for regular practice
- Competing with highly skilled peers
- Keeping up with new app features
Platforms
Instagram commentsReddit r/ProcreateDiscord art servers
layersalpha lockbrush sets
Insights & Background
Historical Timeline
Main Subjects
People
1 / 3
1 / 3
People
First Steps & Resources
Get-Started Steps
Time to basics: 1-2 weeks
1
Set Up Procreate Workspace
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Install Procreate, set up your canvas, and explore the interface to get comfortable with basic tools.
Details: Begin by installing Procreate on your iPad and ensuring you have an Apple Pencil or compatible stylus. Open the app and create a new canvas, experimenting with different sizes and resolutions. Take time to familiarize yourself with the interface—explore the brush library, color picker, layers panel, and gesture controls. Many beginners overlook the importance of understanding the workspace, leading to frustration or inefficient workflows later. Try customizing your brush palette and experimenting with the undo/redo gestures. This foundational step is crucial for building confidence and efficiency in your sketching process. Evaluate your progress by navigating the interface without hesitation and being able to locate and use basic tools quickly.
2
Complete a Simple Sketch
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Draw a basic object (like a fruit or cup) using default brushes to practice lines, shapes, and layers.
Details: Start your first sketch by choosing a simple subject—such as an apple, mug, or plant. Use the default pencil or ink brushes to outline the shape, then add basic shading or color. Work with at least two layers: one for the sketch and one for color or shading. Focus on getting comfortable with the Apple Pencil’s pressure sensitivity and the feel of digital drawing. Beginners often try to do too much at once; keep it simple and focus on line control and basic form. Don’t worry about perfection—this is about building muscle memory and familiarity. Save your work and review it later to see your progress. You’ll know you’ve succeeded when you can complete a recognizable sketch and feel more at ease with the tools.
3
Explore Custom Brushes
2-3 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Download and test free custom brushes from community sources to see how they affect your sketching style.
Details: Custom brushes are a hallmark of the Procreate community. Search for free brush packs shared by artists in forums or social media groups. Download and import them into Procreate, then experiment by sketching with different textures and effects. Pay attention to how each brush changes the feel of your lines and shading. Beginners sometimes get overwhelmed by too many options—start with a few highly recommended brushes and take notes on your favorites. This step is important for personalizing your workflow and discovering tools that suit your style. Progress is measured by your ability to import brushes and confidently select brushes that enhance your sketches.
1
Set Up Procreate Workspace
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Install Procreate, set up your canvas, and explore the interface to get comfortable with basic tools.
Details: Begin by installing Procreate on your iPad and ensuring you have an Apple Pencil or compatible stylus. Open the app and create a new canvas, experimenting with different sizes and resolutions. Take time to familiarize yourself with the interface—explore the brush library, color picker, layers panel, and gesture controls. Many beginners overlook the importance of understanding the workspace, leading to frustration or inefficient workflows later. Try customizing your brush palette and experimenting with the undo/redo gestures. This foundational step is crucial for building confidence and efficiency in your sketching process. Evaluate your progress by navigating the interface without hesitation and being able to locate and use basic tools quickly.
2
Complete a Simple Sketch
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Draw a basic object (like a fruit or cup) using default brushes to practice lines, shapes, and layers.
Details: Start your first sketch by choosing a simple subject—such as an apple, mug, or plant. Use the default pencil or ink brushes to outline the shape, then add basic shading or color. Work with at least two layers: one for the sketch and one for color or shading. Focus on getting comfortable with the Apple Pencil’s pressure sensitivity and the feel of digital drawing. Beginners often try to do too much at once; keep it simple and focus on line control and basic form. Don’t worry about perfection—this is about building muscle memory and familiarity. Save your work and review it later to see your progress. You’ll know you’ve succeeded when you can complete a recognizable sketch and feel more at ease with the tools.
3
Explore Custom Brushes
2-3 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Download and test free custom brushes from community sources to see how they affect your sketching style.
Details: Custom brushes are a hallmark of the Procreate community. Search for free brush packs shared by artists in forums or social media groups. Download and import them into Procreate, then experiment by sketching with different textures and effects. Pay attention to how each brush changes the feel of your lines and shading. Beginners sometimes get overwhelmed by too many options—start with a few highly recommended brushes and take notes on your favorites. This step is important for personalizing your workflow and discovering tools that suit your style. Progress is measured by your ability to import brushes and confidently select brushes that enhance your sketches.
4
Share Artwork for Feedback
1-2 days (including waiting for feedback)Intermediate
Summary: Post your sketch in a Procreate-focused online community and request constructive feedback from other artists.
Details: Engaging with the community is key to growth. Choose a welcoming Procreate group or forum and share your sketch, clearly asking for beginner-friendly feedback. Be open to critique and thank those who respond. Many newcomers fear negative judgment, but most communities are supportive—especially if you show willingness to learn. Avoid posting without context; instead, mention what you struggled with or want to improve. This step helps you connect with others, learn from diverse perspectives, and build confidence. Progress is evident when you receive actionable advice and start applying it to future sketches.
5
Watch and Analyze Time-Lapses
2-3 hoursIntermediate
Summary: View Procreate time-lapse videos, pausing to study techniques and workflows used by experienced artists.
Details: Procreate automatically records time-lapses of your work, and many artists share these videos online. Search for time-lapse sketches in your area of interest (e.g., portraits, landscapes). Watch the videos, pausing to observe how artists build up their sketches, use layers, and apply effects. Take notes on techniques or shortcuts you notice. Beginners often passively watch without analyzing—actively pause and try to replicate specific steps in your own sketches. This step is vital for understanding real-world workflows and picking up tips not covered in tutorials. You’ll know you’re progressing when you can identify and apply at least one new technique from a time-lapse to your own work.
Welcoming Practices
„Posting a Welcome to the Canvas message with encouraging tips.“
This ritual helps newcomers feel included and immediately supported, signaling a friendly and helpful community ethos.
Beginner Mistakes
Not organizing layers leading to confusion during edits.
Get into the habit of grouping and labeling layers early to maintain clarity throughout the sketching process.
Ignoring pressure sensitivity settings on brushes.
Experiment with pressure curves and brush properties to achieve more natural and expressive linework.
Pathway to Credibility
Tap a pathway step to view details
Master fundamental Procreate tools and gestures.
Understanding layers, brushes, QuickShape, and intuitive gestures is foundational for workflow efficiency and respected artistry.
Develop and share custom brushes.
Creating unique brushes or curating collections shows technical skill and contributes valuable resources to the community.
Engage actively by sharing work, tutorials, and giving constructive critiques.
Active participation builds reputation and trust, essential for moving from newbie to respected peer.
Facts
Regional Differences
Europe
European Procreate sketch artists often integrate historical art studies and classical techniques into their digital work, reflecting local art traditions.
North America
North American users frequently engage in commercial and entertainment-focused sketching, such as concept art and character design for games and comics.
Misconceptions
Misconception #1
Digital sketching on Procreate is easier and less skillful than traditional drawing.
Reality
While it might seem more accessible, mastering Procreate’s tools, workflows, and brush customization requires significant skill and artistic understanding.
Misconception #2
Procreate’s sketches look too 'perfect' and lack the character of hand-drawn art.
Reality
Artists use features like brush texture, pressure sensitivity, and intentional imperfection to create expressive, organic sketches that often surpass traditional mediums in creativity.
