How to Add Outlines and Strokes in Procreate

Procreate is one of the most powerful digital illustration tools available for iPad, widely favored by artists, illustrators, and designers for its intuitive interface and robust functionality. One feature that can dramatically elevate your artwork is the use of outlines and strokes. Whether you’re adding depth, creating emphasis, or refining character designs, outlines can bring clarity and impact to your illustrations.

TLDR

Adding outlines and strokes in Procreate can significantly enhance your artwork by making elements pop and increasing visual structure. This process can be achieved using methods like duplicating layers, using selection tools, or utilizing brush techniques. The cleanest outlines are usually created with layer duplication and Gaussian blur for soft shadows or hard selections for sharp edges. Always remember to use non-destructive workflows like creating outlines on separate layers.

Why Add Outlines or Strokes in Procreate?

Before jumping into the technical process, it’s essential to understand why outlines are useful. Outlines and strokes can:

• Define shapes more clearly.
• Separate overlapping elements in your artwork.
• Enhance visibility of characters or objects against complex backgrounds.
• Create a stylized aesthetic, especially for cartoons and graphic illustrations.

Now that the importance is established, let’s dive into the practical methods available in Procreate to achieve this essential visual effect.

Method 1: Using Layer Duplication and Gaussian Blur

This method creates a soft-edged or “glow-like” outline. It works well for both fine-edged and stylized artwork.

1. Draw or import your subject: Make sure your artwork is on a separate layer.
2. Duplicate the layer: Swipe left on the layer and tap Duplicate.
3. Select the bottom layer: This will become your stroke.
4. Lock transparency: Tap on the layer and choose Alpha Lock.
5. Fill the layer with the outline color: Use the color fill option or drag the color from the top corner into the canvas.
6. Turn off Alpha Lock: Now go to Adjustments > Gaussian Blur > Layer and gradually increase the blur.
7. Apply adjustment: Once satisfied, tap anywhere on the screen to finalize.
8. Flatten if necessary: If you’re happy, you can merge layers, but it’s better to keep them separate for flexibility.

This method is particularly effective for creating a soft aura around the subject, useful in fantasy art or UI-style graphics.

Method 2: Using Selection Tool for Hard-Edged Outlines

If you want a crisp and sharp outline around your subject, this approach is ideal. It gives you more control over stroke thickness and shape.

1. Select the original layer: Make sure it only contains the subject and is not merged with a background.
2. Use the Selection Tool: Tap the Select (S) icon and choose Automatic for pixel-based selections.
3. Tap the subject: Adjust threshold by dragging left or right to perfect the edge detection.
4. Expand the selection: Go to Selection > Modify > Expand and increase pixels to your desired stroke width.
5. Create a new layer: Always draw strokes on a separate layer to preserve flexibility.
6. Fill the selection: With your outline color active, choose Fill Layer to create the stroke.
7. Move the stroke layer: Drag it below the original layer to keep the outline underneath the artwork.

This approach provides precise control for comic book art, logos, and text-based design where edge clarity is essential.

Method 3: Stroke with Brush Tool

For a more freehand or artistic aesthetic, you can draw your outlines manually using brushes.

This is best used when:

• You’re aiming for a textured or sketch-like stroke.
• You need unique shapes or irregular outlines.
• You want to add personal style or custom flairs to borders.

Steps:

1. Create a new layer: Place it beneath your original drawing layer.
2. <strongChoose an outline brush: In the Brush Library, pick a brush with solid flow or texture depending on the desired result. Inking brushes work well.
3. Select the stroke color: Traditionally black or dark tones, but feel free to experiment.
4. <strongManually draw the stroke: Carefully outline your subject. You may use quick shapes for precision.

Although time-consuming, this method allows for the most control and customization. It’s especially popular among traditional ink artists adapting to digital formats.

Tips for Professional Results

Getting professional-level strokes in Procreate involves more than just the correct method. Here are some pro tips:

• Work on separate layers: This allows you to make adjustments at any stage without damaging the original artwork.
• Use masks: Layer masks allow for non-destructive editing when painting or erasing outlines.
• Color coordinate: Don’t always default to black strokes—sometimes using a darker version of your fill color looks more harmonious.
• Adjust opacity: Lowering the opacity of strokes can create subtle effects without dominating the design.
• Utilize snapping and guides: Especially useful when dealing with geometric elements that require perfect alignment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right technique, these pitfalls can hinder your final result:

• Over-merging layers: Avoid flattening layers too early in the process. Always keep backups.
• Excessive stroke size: Too thick of a stroke can overwhelm and distort the shape of your illustrations.
• Ignoring color theory: An inappropriate stroke color can clash and reduce overall cohesion.
• Working with low resolution: Strokes can appear distorted or pixelated if canvas resolution is too low. Aim for at least 300 DPI.

Conclusion

Mastering outlines and strokes in Procreate is essential for many styles of digital art, from comic books to digital portraiture. Whether you’re crafting precise vector-like borders or loose, organic brush outlines, there’s a method available to meet your artistic goals. More importantly, creating outlines on separate layers, adjusting thickness, and choosing the right technique for your style can transform your artwork from good to great.

As with all things in digital art, the key is to practice and experiment. The more you become comfortable with Procreate’s tools and adjustments, the more second-nature your outline techniques will become. And always remember—what makes your strokes truly effective isn’t just technique, but how well they support the narrative and aesthetics of your piece.