AxisDesignIndia
Introduction
Are you tired of dealing with distracting backgrounds in your Procreate artwork? Removing the background can help your art shine and give it a professional touch. In this article, we will guide you through the process of removing the background on Procreate, a popular digital art app for iPad. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this tutorial will provide you with the necessary steps to achieve a clean and polished look for your artwork.
Why Should You Remove the Background?
The background of an artwork plays a crucial role in determining its overall impact. By removing the background, you can isolate the main subject and make it stand out. This technique is especially useful when you want to create graphics for web design, digital illustrations, or product images. Removing the background allows for more flexibility in reusing the artwork across different projects.
1. Enhancing Focus on the Subject
Removing the background brings the focus solely on the subject of your artwork. By isolating the subject, you eliminate any distractions that may divert attention away from it. This can be particularly helpful when creating illustrations, portraits, or product images where the subject needs to be the center of attention.
2. Seamless Integration into Designs
When you remove the background, you have the freedom to incorporate your artwork into various design projects effortlessly. Whether you’re creating a website banner, social media post, or digital collage, having a transparent background allows for seamless integration. This flexibility gives you the opportunity to experiment with different backgrounds or layering techniques to create captivating visuals.
3. Versatility and Adaptability
By removing the background, you transform your artwork into a versatile asset. With a transparent background, you can easily overlay your subject onto different backgrounds, change the color scheme, or resize the artwork without compromising its quality. This adaptability makes your artwork suitable for a wide range of applications and ensures it remains relevant even as your design needs evolve.
4. Professional Presentation
Removing the background adds a professional touch to your artwork, making it look polished and refined. Whether you’re showcasing your portfolio or presenting your work to clients, having a clean background enhances the overall presentation and demonstrates attention to detail. This professionalism can positively impact how your artwork is perceived and may open up new opportunities for collaborations or commissions.
Getting Started: Preparing Your Artwork
Before diving into the process of removing the background, it’s important to ensure that your artwork is properly set up. Here are a few steps to follow:
Choose the Right Canvas Size
Start by selecting the appropriate canvas size for your artwork. Consider the intended use of your artwork and determine the dimensions accordingly. If you’re creating a detailed illustration, a larger canvas size will allow for more intricate details. On the other hand, if you’re preparing an image for a specific platform or medium, make sure to choose the dimensions that align with the requirements of that platform.
Organize Your Layers
If your artwork consists of multiple layers, organizing them will make it easier to select and manipulate specific elements. Rename your layers descriptively, especially if you have complex compositions. This will save you time and effort when you need to make adjustments or select specific elements later on. Group related layers together to maintain a logical structure, making it easier to navigate through your artwork.
Save a Copy
Before making any changes to your artwork, it’s always a good idea to save a copy of the original file. This way, you can revert to the original version if needed or make different variations of your artwork without losing the initial composition. Saving a copy ensures that you have a backup and allows you to experiment with different techniques and styles while preserving the integrity of your original artwork.
Using the Selection Tool
The selection tool is a powerful feature in Procreate that allows you to isolate specific areas of your artwork. Here’s how you can utilize it to remove the background:
Select the “Selection” Tool
To begin removing the background, open your artwork in Procreate and tap on the wrench icon located in the top-right corner. This will open the Actions panel. From the Actions panel, choose the “Selection” tool. The selection tool provides various options for creating precise selections and manipulating specific areas of your artwork.
Outline the Subject
With the selection tool activated, use your finger or stylus to trace along the edges of the main subject. Procreate’s selection tool automatically detects and creates a selection based on your strokes. Take your time and ensure that you accurately outline the subject, as this will affect the precision of the background removal.
Refine the Selection
Once you’ve outlined the subject, you can refine the selection to ensure it captures all the necessary details. Procreate provides options to adjust the size of the selection tool, zoom in for more precision, and use the “Add” and “Subtract” options to include or exclude specific areas from the selection. Take advantage of these tools to fine-tune the selection and capture even the most intricate parts of your artwork.
Removing the Background
Now that you have a precise selection of your subject, it’s time to remove the background:
Invert the Selection
To select everything except the subject, go to the “Selection” menu in Procreate and choose the “Invert” option. This will invert the selection, ensuring that the background is selected while the subject remains unselected. Inverting the selection is a crucial step in isolating the subject and removing the background effectively.
Delete the Background
Once you have inverted the selection, it’s time to delete the background. To do this, navigate to the layers panel in Procreate and create a new layer. Make sure the new layer is located below the layer containing the subject. With the inverted selection still active, tap on the new layer and choose the “Cut” option. This will remove the selected background, leaving only the subject on the new layer with a transparent background.
Adjusting Opacity and Blending Modes
After removing the background, you may want to adjust the opacity and blending modes of the subject layer to ensure it integrates seamlessly into your desired background. Experiment with different blending modes to create interesting effects and explore how your subject interacts with various colors and textures. Adjusting the opacity can also help achieve a more subtle or stylized look, depending on the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for.
Save Your Artwork
Once you’re satisfied with the background removal and any necessary adjustments, it’s important to save your artwork. Procreate offers various file formats for export, such as PNG, JPEG, or PSD. Select the format that best suits your needs based on factors like image quality, transparency, and compatibility with other editing software or platforms. Saving your artwork ensures that your hard work is preserved and ready to be shared or further edited.
Fine-tuning and Adding Details
After removing the background, you may notice some areas that require further refinement. Here are a few tips for fine-tuning your artwork:
Zoom In for Precision
To work on fine details, zoom in on the artwork using pinch gestures. This will allow you to see the smaller elements more clearly and make precise adjustments. Zooming in can be particularly useful when working on intricate patterns, textures, or facial features. Take your time and ensure that your adjustments align with your artistic vision.
Erase Unwanted Elements
While removing the background, you might accidentally include some unwanted elements or stray marks. To clean up the artwork, use the eraser tool in Procreate. Adjust the size of the eraser brush according to the area you want to clean up, and carefully erase any unwanted elements. If needed, you can also adjust the opacity of the eraser brush to achieve gradual or subtle erasing effects.
Add Missing Details
If any parts of the subject were accidentally removed during the background removal process, don’t worry! With Procreate’s extensive brush library and color options, you can easily reconstruct those missing details. Select the appropriate brush and color, and carefully paint in the areas that need to be restored. Take care to match the style and texture of the original artwork to ensure a seamless integration.
Experiment with Brushes and Textures
Procreate offers a wide range of brushes and textures that can enhance the overall look of your artwork. Now that you have a subject with a transparent background, you can experiment with different brushes to add texture, shading, or highlights. Create depth and dimension by layering different brush strokes, and blend colors to achieve the desired effect. Take your time to explore the various options Procreate provides and find the perfect combination to bring your artwork to life.
Explore Additional Editing Tools
Procreate is equipped with various editing tools and features that can further enhance your artwork. As you fine-tune your background-removed subject, consider utilizing features such as correction and adjustment layers, filters, and effects. These tools can help you refine the colors, contrast, and overall aesthetic of your artwork. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere.
Exporting Your Artwork
Once you’re satisfied with the background removal, adjustments, and any additional details, it’s time to export your artwork:
Choose Your File Format
Procreate offers various file formats for export, each with its own advantages and considerations. PNG is a popular choice for images with transparent backgrounds, as it preserves the transparency and allows for easy integration into different projects. JPEG is suitable for high-quality images that don’t require transparency, such as photographs or illustrations without transparent elements. PSD is the native file format of Procreate, which retains all the layers and settings for further editing in Procreate or other compatible software.
Adjust Image Quality
Consider adjusting the image quality before exporting your artwork. Depending on the intended use, you may want to optimize the file size while ensuring the image retains its visual appeal. Procreate provides options to control the resolution, compression, and color profiles during export. Finding the right balance between image quality and file size will ensure optimal viewing and efficient sharing of your artwork.
Save and Share
Once you’ve chosen the file format and adjusted the image quality, it’s time to save and share your masterpiece with the world! Tap on the share button in Procreate and choose your desired method of sharing. You can save the artwork directly to the camera roll, send it via email or messaging apps, or share it on social media platforms for a wider audience to appreciate. Be proud of your background-removed artwork and let others admire your creative talents!
Helpful Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to enhance your background removal process:
Experiment with Different Brushes
Procreate offers a wide range of brushes, including ones specifically designed for erasing and refining edges. Don’t limit yourself to just one brush – try out different brushes to achieve varied effects. Experiment with different sizes, textures, and opacities to find the ideal brush for each step of the background removal process. Remember, brushes can greatly influence the overall look and feel of your artwork.
Utilize the “Select” Menu
Procreate’s “Select” menu contains additional options that can help you achieve even smoother and more natural-looking selections. Experiment with features like “Smooth” and “Feather” to refine the edges of your selection and create seamless transitions between the subject and the background. These tools are particularly useful when dealing with complex shapes or areas that require delicate adjustments.
Try Different Blending Modes
Blending modes can significantly impact the way your subject interacts with different backgrounds or elements within your artwork. Play around with blending modes to experiment with different looks and effects. Some blending modes can add depth, while others can create intriguing textures or overlays. Be adventurous and see how blending modes can transform the overall composition of your artwork.
Save Frequent Selections
If you find yourself reusing certain selections or masking techniques, you can save them as reusable presets in Procreate. This can save you time and effort, especially when working on multiple projects or similar compositions. Once you’ve created a selection or mask that you want to reuse, simply go to the “Selection” menu and tap on the “+” icon to save it as a preset. This way, you can quickly access and apply it whenever needed.
Take Advantage of Procreate’s Community
Procreate has a vibrant and supportive community of artists who are always eager to share their tips, techniques, and creations. Explore online forums, social media groups, or tutorials to learn from experienced Procreate users. Engaging with the community not only provides valuable insights but also inspires new ideas and helps you push the boundaries of your creative journey.
Backup Your Artwork
While Procreate automatically saves your artwork in its gallery, it’s important to regularly back up your work to ensure its safety. Consider using cloud storage services, external hard drives, or other reliable backup methods to keep copies of your artwork. Additionally, it’s recommended to periodically export your artwork in different file formats and store them securely. This way, even if something happens to your device or Procreate data, your precious artwork remains protected.
How to Remove Background on Procreate – FAQ
Can I remove the background on Procreate if my artwork has complex shapes and textures?
A: Yes! Procreate’s selection tool allows you to manually trace complex shapes and textures to create precise selections. Take your time and use the zoom feature for better accuracy. Experiment with different brushes and adjustment options to achieve the desired level of detail.
Will removing the background affect the quality of my artwork?
A: No, removing the background on Procreate does not affect the quality of your artwork. It simply isolates the subject from the background, giving you more control over its presentation. However, it’s always a good practice to work on a high-resolution canvas and save your artwork in formats that preserve image quality.
Can I undo the background removal if I change my mind?
A: Absolutely! Since you saved a copy of your original artwork, you can always revert to it by deleting the layer with the subject and restoring the background layer. Procreate also provides an undo feature that allows you to step back through your actions. Take advantage of these features to experiment and explore different possibilities without worrying about irreversible changes.
Are there any shortcuts or gestures that can speed up the background removal process?
A: Yes, Procreate offers various shortcuts and gestures to streamline your workflow. Familiarize yourself with features such as two-finger tap to undo, three-finger tap to redo, and swipe gestures to switch between brushes and tools. These shortcuts can save you time and help you maintain a smooth and efficient workflow throughout the background removal process.
Can I apply different backgrounds after removing the original one?
A: Absolutely! Once you have removed the background, you can experiment with different backgrounds by adding new layers behind the subject layer. This allows you to easily changethe background and see which one complements your artwork best. Procreate provides a wide range of tools and features to help you seamlessly integrate different backgrounds into your artwork. You can use blending modes, layer masks, and adjustment layers to achieve the desired effect. Take this opportunity to explore various backgrounds and find the perfect match for your subject.
Can I remove the background from a scanned or imported image on Procreate?
A: Yes, you can remove the background from scanned or imported images in Procreate using the same selection and deletion techniques. Make sure the image is properly imported into Procreate by going to the “Photos” tab and selecting the image you want to work with. Once imported, you can use the selection tool and follow the steps mentioned earlier to remove the background. Scanned or imported images offer a unique opportunity to transform traditional artwork into digital masterpieces by removing unwanted backgrounds and enhancing the subject.
Can I use the selection tool to remove backgrounds from multiple subjects in one artwork?
A: Yes! The selection tool in Procreate allows you to create multiple selections and remove backgrounds individually. This means you can isolate and remove backgrounds from multiple subjects within the same artwork. By creating separate layers for each subject, you can easily adjust, modify, or remove backgrounds independently. This opens up endless creative possibilities, allowing you to create complex compositions with dynamic foregrounds and backgrounds.
How can I ensure smooth edges when removing the background?
A: Achieving smooth edges is essential for a natural-looking background removal. Procreate offers various options to refine the edges of your selection. In the “Selection” menu, you’ll find features like “Smooth” and “Feather” that allow you to soften the edges and create more seamless transitions between the subject and the background. Experiment with different levels of smoothness and feathering to achieve the desired effect. Additionally, using a high-resolution canvas and zooming in for precision will help you achieve cleaner and more accurate results.
Can I use the same techniques to remove the background in Procreate Pocket?
A: Yes, most of the techniques mentioned in this guide can be applied to Procreate Pocket, the mobile version of Procreate. Procreate Pocket offers a similar set of features and tools, allowing you to remove backgrounds on the go. However, keep in mind that the user interface may vary slightly between Procreate Pocket and the iPad version of Procreate. Familiarize yourself with the interface and adapt the steps accordingly. The essence of removing the background remains the same, regardless of the device you’re using.
How can I further enhance my background-removed artwork in Procreate?
A: Removing the background is just the first step in creating stunning artwork in Procreate. Once you have a subject with a transparent background, the possibilities are endless. Consider adding additional elements to complement the subject, such as foreground objects, textures, or typography. Experiment with Procreate’s extensive brush library to add depth, shading, or special effects. Don’t be afraid to explore filters, adjustment layers, and other editing tools to enhance the overall atmosphere of your artwork. Procreate offers a wide array of creative options, so let your imagination run wild and create something truly extraordinary.
Can I remove the background in Procreate without a stylus?
A: Absolutely! While using a stylus can provide more precision and control, you can still remove the background in Procreate using your finger or any other compatible input method. Procreate’s selection tools are designed to work seamlessly with both styluses and touch input, ensuring that you can achieve accurate selections and detailed background removals even without a stylus. Experiment with different strokes, pressures, and gestures to find a technique that suits your preferences and artistic style.
How can I achieve a realistic cutout effect in Procreate?
A: If you want to achieve a realistic cutout effect in Procreate, consider adding subtle shadows and highlights to your subject. Use the airbrush or smudge tool to create soft shadows along the edges of the subject, simulating the depth and dimension that a physical cutout would have. Similarly, adding highlights to certain areas can create a sense of three-dimensionality. Experiment with brushes, blending modes, and opacity to achieve the desired effect. By combining this technique with accurate background removal, you can create artwork that looks like a professionally crafted paper cutout.
Can I remove the background from a complex image with intricate details and fine lines?
A: Removing the background from a complex image with intricate details and fine lines can be a challenging task. However, Procreate’s selection tools and zoom feature can help you achieve precise results. Start by zooming in on the area you want to work on, enabling you to see the details more clearly. Use a small-sized selection brush and make deliberate strokes along the edges of the subject to ensure that no fine lines or intricate details are overlooked. Take your time, be patient, and utilize Procreate’s features to their fullest extent, and you’ll be able to successfully remove the background from even the most complex images.
Conclusion
Congratulations! With this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you have learned how to remove the background on Procreate like a pro. By following the detailed instructions, utilizing Procreate’s powerful selection tools, and exploring various techniques, you can now create artwork with a clean and polished look. Remember to experiment, practice, and develop your own style as you continue your artistic journey. Removing the background on Procreate opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to focus on the subjects that matter most and seamlessly integrate them into your designs. So, grab your iPad, launch Procreate, and start creating breathtaking artwork with ease!
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. The mentioned techniques and features may vary depending on the version of Procreate and your device. Always refer to the official documentation and user guides for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The author and the website do not assume any responsibility for any outcomes or results obtained from following the instructions provided in this article.