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Remove Backgrounds with Ease Using Procreate
Are you tired of struggling to remove backgrounds from your digital artwork in Procreate? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process step by step, so you can create stunning illustrations with ease. With our detailed tutorial and helpful tips, you’ll be able to delete backgrounds like a pro in no time!
Introduction to Removing Backgrounds in Procreate
Deleting the background from an image or artwork is an essential skill for digital artists. Whether you want to isolate a subject, create transparent backgrounds, or combine different elements seamlessly, Procreate provides powerful tools to help you achieve your desired results. In this introduction, we will cover the basics of removing backgrounds in Procreate and explain why it is crucial for your artistic journey.
Why Removing Backgrounds is Important
By deleting the background in Procreate, you can separate your subject from the surrounding elements, allowing for more creative freedom and flexibility in your artwork. Whether you’re working on illustrations, digital paintings, or photo manipulations, removing the background can elevate your composition and make your subject stand out. It also gives you the ability to easily place your artwork on different backgrounds, use it for graphic design projects, or incorporate it into other digital creations.
The Power of Procreate
Procreate is a powerful digital art app designed specifically for iPad and iPhone, offering a wide range of features and tools tailored to the needs of artists. With its intuitive interface and extensive capabilities, Procreate allows you to create stunning artwork right at your fingertips. From sketching and painting to advanced photo editing and layer manipulation, Procreate has become a go-to app for many artists and professionals in the digital art industry.
With its comprehensive selection of brushes, customizable settings, and advanced layer system, Procreate provides all the necessary tools to delete backgrounds and achieve professional results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, Procreate’s user-friendly interface and powerful tools make it accessible to artists of all skill levels.
Understanding Layers in Procreate
Before we dive into the process of deleting backgrounds in Procreate, it’s important to understand how layers work. Layers are like transparent sheets stacked on top of each other, allowing you to draw or paint on one layer without affecting the others. This layer-based workflow provides flexibility and control over your artwork, enabling you to make changes, experiment with different elements, and easily delete or adjust specific parts of your composition.
In Procreate, you’ll find the Layers panel on the right side of the screen. Here you can create new layers, rearrange their order, adjust their opacity and blending modes, and apply various adjustments and effects to individual layers. By utilizing layers effectively, you can delete backgrounds without affecting your original artwork, making the editing process non-destructive and easily reversible.
Preparing Your Artwork in Procreate
Before you start deleting the background in Procreate, it’s essential to ensure that your artwork is properly prepared. This includes importing your artwork, adjusting the canvas size, and organizing your layers for efficient editing. Here are some steps you should follow when preparing your artwork:
Step 1: Importing Your Artwork
The first step is to import your artwork into Procreate. You can either create a new canvas and draw your artwork directly in the app or import an existing image from your device’s gallery. To import an image, follow these steps:
Step 1.1: Creating a New Canvas
If you want to create a new canvas and draw your artwork within Procreate, open the app and tap on the “+” icon to create a new canvas. Choose the desired canvas size, resolution, and orientation based on your artwork’s requirements. Once you’ve set up the canvas, you can start sketching or painting your artwork using Procreate’s extensive range of brushes and tools.
Step 1.2: Importing an Existing Image
If you already have an image that you’d like to edit or delete the background from, you can import it into Procreate. Here’s how:
Step 1.2.1: Opening the Actions Menu
Tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. This menu contains various options for managing and editing your artwork.
Step 1.2.2: Adding a New Layer
In the Actions menu, select “Add” and choose “Insert a photo” from the options. This will open your device’s gallery.
Step 1.2.3: Selecting the Image
Navigate to the desired image in your gallery and tap on it to select it. Procreate will automatically import the image as a new layer in your canvas.
Step 1.2.4: Adjusting the Canvas
Resize and position the imported image as needed. You can use the transform controls, located at the top of the screen, to adjust the size, rotation, and position of the image within the canvas.
Step 1.2.5: Confirming the Changes
Once you’re satisfied with the placement of the image, tap on the arrow icon at the top right corner of the screen to confirm the changes and proceed to the next steps.
Step 2: Organizing Your Layers
Now that you have your artwork imported into Procreate, it’s time to organize your layers for efficient editing. By organizing your layers effectively, you can easily delete the background without affecting other elements of your artwork. Here are some tips for organizing your layers:
Step 2.1: Renaming Layers
Assign descriptive names to your layers to easily identify their contents. This is especially useful when working with multiple layers and complex compositions. To rename a layer, simply tap on its name in the Layers panel and enter a new name.
Step 2.2: Grouping Layers
If your artwork contains multiple elements or sections, consider grouping related layers together. Grouping layers helps keep your workspace organized and allows for easier editing and manipulation of specific parts of your composition.
Step 2.3: Locking Layers
If you want to prevent accidental changes to certain layers, you can lock them. Locked layers cannot be edited until they are unlocked. This feature is especially handy when you want to delete the background without affecting other elements of your artwork.
Step 2.4: Adjusting Layer Order
The order of your layers determines how they stack on top of each other. To change the layer order, simply tap and hold on a layer in the Layers panel and drag it up or down. This allows you to arrange the layers in a way that makes editing and deleting the background easier.
Step 3: Adjusting the Canvas Size
If the size of your canvas needs to be adjusted before deleting the background, Procreate offers an easy way to resize it. Here’s how you can adjust the canvas size:
Step 3.1: Opening the Canvas menu
Tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. From the menu, select “Canvas” to access the canvas-related options.
Step 3.2: Resizing the Canvas
In the Canvas menu, you’ll find options to resize your canvas. You can choose from predefined sizes or enter custom dimensions for your canvas. Procreate also offers options to maintain the proportions of your artwork or crop it to a specific aspect ratio.
Step 3.3: Adjusting the Canvas Orientation
If you need to change the orientation of your canvas from landscape to portrait or vice versa, the Canvas menu provides options to rotate the canvas accordingly. This ensures that your artwork is displayed in the desired orientation.
Step 3.4: Confirming the Changes
Once you’ve adjusted the canvas size and orientation as needed, tap on the arrow icon at the top right corner of the screen to confirm the changes.
Now that your artwork is imported, organized, and prepared, you’re ready to dive into the process of deleting the background in Procreate. In the next section, we’ll explore the step-by-step tutorial and guide you through each stage of removing the background effectively.
Tutorial: How to Delete Background in Procreate
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of deleting the background in Procreate using various tools and techniques. By following these steps, you’ll be able to achieve professional-looking results and create stunning compositions. So, grab your iPad, open Procreate, and let’s get started!
Step 1: Importing Your Artwork
The first step is to import your artwork into Procreate. As mentioned earlier, you can import an existing image from your device’s gallery or create a new canvas and start drawing or painting within Procreate. Importing your artwork allows you to work on it directly in Procreate and take advantage of all the app’s features and tools. Follow the steps outlined in the “Preparing Your Artwork in Procreate” section to import your artwork effectively.
Step 2: Creating a New Layer for Editing
Before you delete the background, it’s important to create a new layer specifically for editing purposes. This layer will allow you to make changes without affecting your original artwork. Creating a new layer is a non-destructive method that gives you the flexibility to modify or revert your edits later. Here’s how to create a new layer:
Step 2.1: Opening the Layers Panel
Tap on the layer icon located at the top right corner of the screen. It looks like two stacked squares. This will open the Layers panel, where you can manage and organize your layers.
Step 2.2: Adding a New Layer
In the Layers panel, tap on the “+” icon to add a new layer. This layer will serve as the editing layer for deleting the background.
Step 2.3: Rearranging the Layers
Drag the editing layer below your original artwork layer by tapping and holding the layer thumbnail, then moving it downwards. This ensures that the editing layer is positioned beneath the artwork layer.
Step 2.4: Selecting the Editing Layer
Make sure the editing layer is selected before proceeding to the next steps. This ensures that any edits or changes you make will be applied to the editing layer only, leaving your original artwork intact.
Step 3: Using Selection Tools to Isolate the Background
Procreate offers various selection tools that allow you to isolate specific areas of your artwork, including the background. By selecting the background, you can delete it while preserving the subject. Follow these steps to use the selection tools effectively:
Step 3.1: Opening the Selection Menu
Tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. From the menu, select “Selection” to access the selection-related options.
Step 3.2: Choosing a Selection Tool
In the Selection menu, you’ll find a variety of selection tools to choose from. Procreate offers freehand, automatic, and geometric selection tools, each with its own unique capabilities and suitability for different types of artwork. Experiment with different selection tools to find the one that works best for your specific needs.
Step 3.3: Creating a Selection
Using your finger or Apple Pencil, create a selection around the background you want to delete. Take your time and ensure that your selection accurately encompasses the background while excluding the subject. Procreate’s selection tools offer options for refining and adjusting the selection to achieve precise results.
Step 3.4: Modifying the Selection
Once you’re satisfied with the initial selection, tap on the “Modify Selection” button in the Selection menu. This will open additional options for modifying and adjusting the selection. Depending on your requirements, you can choose options such as “Invert” to select the background instead of the subject or “Feather” to soften the edges of the selection for a more seamless transition.
Step 4: Deleting the Selected Background
With the background selected, it’s time to delete it and create a transparent area. Procreate offers various methods to delete selections, depending on your preferences and the complexity of the image. Here are some techniques you can use:
Step 4.1: Using the Cut or Clear Options
If the background is a solid color or simple pattern, you can use the “Cut” or “Clear” options to remove it. With the background selected, tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. From the menu, select “Modify” followed by either “Cut” or “Clear,” depending on your preference. The selected pixels will be deleted, leaving a transparent area in place of the background.
Step 4.2: Using the Fill Tool
If the background is relatively uniform or consists of a solid color, you can use the “Fill” tool to quickly delete it. Tap on the paintbrush icon, located on the toolbar, to access the brushes. From the options, select the “Fill” tool. Then, tap on the selected area to remove the background. The “Fill” tool replaces the selected pixels with transparency.
Step 5: Refining the Edges of Your Subject
After deleting the background, you might notice some rough edges around your subject. To make your artwork look more polished and professional, it’s important to refine these edges. Procreate offers various tools and techniques to help you achieve smooth and clean edges. Here are some methods you can try:
Step 5.1: Using the Erase Tool
Procreate’s “Erase” tool allows you to manually clean up any remaining background pixels and refine the edges of your subject. Adjust the size and opacity of the eraser brush according to your needs. Carefully erase any unwanted pixels along the edges to achieve a clean and precise result. Take your time and zoom in if necessary to ensure accuracy.
Step 5.2: Utilizing the Mask Feature
If your subject has intricate details or wispy hair, you can use Procreate’s “Mask” feature to refine the edges more precisely. Masks allow you to paint over unwanted pixels without affecting the subject itself. Here’s how to utilize the mask feature:
Step 5.2.1: Opening the Masks Menu
Tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. From the menu, select “Mask” to access the mask-related options.
Step 5.2.2: Creating a Mask
With the mask feature enabled, use the appropriate brushes to paint over the unwanted pixels along the edges of your subject. The masked areas will be protected from further edits, allowing you to focus on refining the surrounding pixels. Use different
brush sizes and opacities to achieve the desired effect. Experiment with different brush settings to find the ones that work best for your specific artwork.
Step 5.2.3: Refining the Mask
You can refine the mask further by using the eraser brush or the mask adjustment tools. The eraser brush allows you to remove areas from the mask, while the mask adjustment tools, such as “Blur” or “Sharpen,” enable you to soften or enhance the mask edges, respectively. Use these tools to fine-tune the mask until you’re satisfied with the result.
Step 5.2.4: Turning Off the Mask
Once you’ve refined the edges of your subject, you can turn off the mask by tapping on the mask icon in the Layers panel. This will remove the mask overlay and display the changes you’ve made to the edges. You can now see the clean and refined edges of your subject without any unwanted background pixels.
Step 5.3: Experimenting with Brushes and Blending Modes
To achieve even more control and refinement, you can experiment with different brushes and blending modes in Procreate. Procreate offers a wide range of brushes, each with its own unique characteristics and textures. By selecting the appropriate brush and adjusting its settings, you can further enhance the edges of your subject and create a seamless transition between the subject and the background.
Additionally, Procreate’s blending modes can be used to blend the edges of your subject with the new background or surrounding elements. Experiment with different blending modes, such as “Multiply,” “Overlay,” or “Soft Light,” to achieve the desired effect. Each blending mode interacts with the layers below in a different way, allowing you to create various artistic looks and seamless integrations.
Step 6: Merging the Layers and Exporting Your Artwork
Once you’re satisfied with the background removal and edge refinement, it’s time to merge the layers and export your artwork as a transparent image. Merging the layers simplifies your artwork and ensures that all the changes you’ve made are applied to a single layer. Here’s how to merge the layers and export your artwork:
Step 6.1: Opening the Layers Panel
Tap on the layer icon located at the top right corner of the screen to open the Layers panel. This panel allows you to manage and manipulate your layers effectively.
Step 6.2: Merging the Layers
In the Layers panel, swipe left on the editing layer to reveal the options. Tap on the “Merge Down” button to combine the editing layer and the original artwork layer. This merges the layers into a single layer, with the background deleted and the subject remaining.
Step 6.3: Exporting Your Artwork
Tap on the wrench icon at the top right corner of the screen to open the Actions menu. From the menu, select “Share” followed by “PNG.” This will export your artwork as a transparent PNG image, preserving the transparency you’ve created by deleting the background.
Step 6.4: Choosing Export Options
In the export menu, you can choose various options for the exported image. These options include the file name, resolution, and destination folder. Procreate also offers the option to export your artwork as a JPEG or TIFF file if needed. Adjust the export settings according to your requirements and preferences.
Step 6.5: Saving and Sharing Your Artwork
Once you’ve set the export options, tap on the “Export” button to save your artwork to your device’s gallery or share it directly with others. Your artwork will be saved as a transparent PNG image, ready to be used in various projects or shared on social media.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully deleted the background in Procreate and created a stunning artwork with transparent areas. Now that you’ve mastered this technique, you can apply it to various projects, such as digital illustrations, photo manipulations, graphic design, and more. Take advantage of Procreate’s powerful tools and features to explore new artistic possibilities and create outstanding compositions.
Complete Guide: How to Delete Background in Procreate
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Import your artwork to Procreate. |
| 2 | Create a new layer for your editing. |
| 3 | Use the selection tools to isolate the background. |
| 4 | Delete the selected background using various techniques. |
| 5 | Refine the edges of your subject using eraser, masking, and blending techniques. |
| 6 | Merge the layers and export your artwork as a transparent image. |
How to Delete Background in Procreate – FAQ
1. Can I delete the background without losing my original artwork layer?
“Yes, by creating a new layer specifically for editing, you can work on deleting the background while preserving your original artwork layer. This non-destructive approach allows you to make additional adjustments or changes later on if needed.”
2. What’s the difference between cutting and clearing the background?
“When you choose ‘Cut,’ Procreate removes the selected pixels and places them on the clipboard, allowing you to paste them elsewhere if desired. ‘Clear’ deletes the selected pixels without saving them to the clipboard.”
3. How do I deal with complex backgrounds?
“For complex backgrounds, it’s recommended to use a combination of selection tools, erasing, masking, and blending techniques. Take your time and work in smaller sections to ensure accuracy and achieve the desired results.”
4. Can I undo the background deletion if I make a mistake?
“Yes, Procreate offers an undo button that allows you to revert any changes you’ve made. Simply tap on the arrow icon at the top left corner of the screen or use the two-finger tap gesture to undo your actions.”
5. Can I delete backgrounds from multiple layers simultaneously?
“Unfortunately, Procreate doesn’t have a native feature to delete backgrounds from multiple layers at once. However, you can merge the layers together before deleting the background if needed.”
6. What export format should I choose for transparent backgrounds?
“PNG is the recommended format for exporting artwork with transparent backgrounds. It supports transparency and maintains the quality of your artwork. However, Procreate also offers options to export your artwork as JPEG or TIFF files if desired.”
7. Are there any alternative apps to Procreate for deleting backgrounds?
“While Procreate is widely regarded as one of the best digital art apps, there are other options available. Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Sketchbook, and Corel Painter are popular alternatives that offer similar features and capabilities for background deletion. However, Procreate’s intuitive interface and dedicated features make it a favorite among many artists.”
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing the comprehensive tutorial on how to delete backgrounds in Procreate! By following the step-by-step instructions, exploring various tools and techniques, and refining your artwork, you’ve gained the skills to remove backgrounds like a professional artist. Now, it’s time to apply this knowledge to your own projects and unleash your creativity.
Remember, practice is key to mastering any skill. Spend time experimenting with different compositions, blending modes, and brush settings in Procreate. Use the selection tools efficiently to create precise selections and achieve seamless integrations. Embrace the power of layers to maintain the flexibility of your artwork and make non-destructive edits.
With Procreate’s extensive range of brushes, customizable settings, and advanced features, you have all the tools you need to create stunning digital artwork with deleted backgrounds. Take your creativity to new heights and explore the endless possibilities Procreate offers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, Procreate’s user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities are sure to elevate your artistic journey.
Now, grab your iPad, open Procreate, and start deleting backgrounds with confidence. Unleash your imagination, create captivating artwork, and enjoy the process of bringing your visions to life. Happy creating!
Note: The information provided in this article is accurate as of the publication date. For the most up-to-date instructions and features, refer to the official Procreate documentation and resources.