Alright, so this is the tablet that I use. It’s the iPad Pro, the 12.9-inch version, which is the larger one. I’m not sure about the exact model, but I believe it’s the 2019 version, so it’s not the newest, but it’s almost there. I also have my second-generation Apple Pencil, which is essential for the iPad Pro since it charges by attaching to the side. My little case is from Amazon, and I can provide a link below for you guys. I also have a paper-like screen saver on it, which makes it feel like I’m drawing on paper and reduces glare on the screen when I’m drawing.
The app I use for drawing is called Procreate. It costs ten dollars on the Apple store, and it’s not a subscription-based app. You pay the ten dollars once, and there are no additional fees. However, I want to clarify that this is not a Procreate tutorial; I’m just showing you how I use it and the tools I use. I don’t use every single Procreate tool, so keep that in mind.
I always set my background to an off-white color because I personally don’t use pure white in my drawings. As for my color palette, I stick to a specific set for all my drawings. I rarely deviate from it, and I don’t include purple unless it’s essential for a character design or fan art. My style is sketchier and less clean compared to traditional digital art, so I like to create a more rough and textured look.
Now, let me introduce you to the brushes I use. I didn’t create these brushes; they’re just the ones I prefer, and I’ve organized them into a set. There are two additional brush sets I’ve purchased, and I’ll provide links below for those interested. Here’s a brief overview of the brushes I use:
- 6B Pencil (Procreate default): My go-to brush, which I use for sketching, filling in, and coloring. It offers a pencil-like feel and is versatile.
- Nair Under Pencil (Procreate default): Similar to the 6B pencil but tighter, like a mechanical pencil. I use it for small details.
- Smoky Shader Brush: Adds a dotted texture, useful for creating cheeks and shading areas.
- Butter Knife: A smoother pen-like brush with built-in texture breaks. I use it for smoother lines.
- Mono Line Pen: Reserved for outlining stickers, as it provides consistent lines and doesn’t vary with pressure.
- Eaglehawk: Offers a watercolor-like effect with texture and pressure-sensitive opacity.
- Gloaming: Provides a watercolor-like texture but is more controlled and less textured than Eaglehawk.
- Chalk: Previously used for calligraphy-like effects but less frequently now.
- Gouache Pen: Gives a smooth gouache texture, perfect for various painting effects.
- StuCo Brush: The most textured brush in my set, used for adding extra texture to shadows.
- Dry Ink Brush: A smoother, more uniform brush that I use for specific tasks like lettering.
I’ll demonstrate my drawing process using these brushes, but first, I usually start with a rough sketch in dark gray to reduce contrast. Then, I refine the sketch and adjust the opacity. I don’t aim for an exact sketch, as I prefer a more natural look.
Next, I block in the basic colors using my 6B pencil, as I enjoy the textured, sketchy appearance. I don’t fill the color completely, leaving some gaps for texture. For more defined shapes, like labels, I use clipping masks.
Once the basic colors are down, I work on refining the details and making adjustments. If needed, I use the Select tool and the Move tool for precise placement.
I hope this insight into my digital art process was helpful! If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask.