Procreate has become one of the most popular digital illustration apps for iPad users, praised for its intuitive interface and professional-grade tools. While many people associate it with drawing and painting, a common question arises can you animate on Procreate? The answer is yes. Procreate offers powerful yet simple animation features that allow artists, illustrators, and hobbyists to create frame-by-frame animations directly within the app. Whether you are new to animation or an experienced creator, learning how to animate in Procreate opens up exciting possibilities for visual storytelling and creative expression.
Understanding Animation in Procreate
Procreate is primarily designed as a drawing application, but with the introduction of the Animation Assist feature, it has expanded into animation. Instead of complex timelines and heavy software requirements, Procreate focuses on frame-by-frame animation that feels natural to use with an Apple Pencil. This makes it accessible for both beginners and professionals who want to create quick animated loops, GIFs, or even full sequences.
Frame-by-Frame Approach
The animation tools in Procreate revolve around a frame-by-frame method. Each frame is like an individual drawing, and when played in sequence, they create motion. This is ideal for hand-drawn animation styles, which give a unique artistic feel that polished 3D software often lacks.
Animation Assist Feature
Animation Assist is the main tool for animating in Procreate. It adds a simple timeline at the bottom of the screen, making it easy to organize, play back, and edit frames. Onion skinning is also available, which allows you to see the faint outline of previous and upcoming frames to guide your next drawing.
How to Get Started with Animation in Procreate
Creating your first animation in Procreate is straightforward. With a few steps, you can start bringing your artwork to life.
Step 1 Enable Animation Assist
To begin, open a new canvas and go to the Actions menu. Under Canvas, toggle on Animation Assist. A timeline bar will appear at the bottom, allowing you to add and manage frames.
Step 2 Add Frames
Each frame is created as a separate layer. You can tap Add Frame to create a new one. By drawing different stages of your subject’s movement, you begin building an animation sequence.
Step 3 Use Onion Skinning
Onion skinning overlays previous and next frames in a faded manner, making it easier to keep your drawings aligned and consistent. This is essential for smooth transitions between frames.
Step 4 Adjust Timing
You can control the playback speed of your animation by adjusting the frames per second (FPS). Slower speeds work well for storyboarding or dramatic effects, while higher speeds make the motion appear smoother.
Step 5 Export Your Animation
Once satisfied, you can export your animation as a GIF, MP4, PNG sequence, or animated HEVC. This makes it easy to share on social media or integrate into larger projects.
Types of Animations You Can Create
Procreate is versatile, and its animation tools can be used in several creative ways. Depending on your goals, you can experiment with different styles of animation.
- GIF AnimationsShort, looping animations are perfect for social media and digital stickers.
- Character AnimationBring illustrated characters to life with walking cycles, expressions, or gestures.
- Motion GraphicsCreate simple moving text, logos, or design elements.
- Storyboards and AnimaticsPlan out larger projects with sequential frames.
- Special EffectsAnimate effects such as fire, smoke, or water for dynamic artwork.
Advantages of Animating on Procreate
While Procreate does not aim to replace professional animation software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom, it offers several advantages that make it appealing.
User-Friendly Design
Procreate’s interface is intuitive and designed for touch and stylus use, which makes animating more like sketching in a notebook than navigating a complex program. Beginners can pick it up quickly.
Portability
Because Procreate runs on iPad, it offers unmatched portability compared to desktop animation software. This means you can animate anywhere, whether at home, in a studio, or on the go.
Integration with Illustration
Since Procreate is first and foremost a drawing app, it integrates illustration tools seamlessly into animation. Brushes, textures, and effects can all be used within animated frames, giving your work a unique look.
Cost-Effective
Unlike many subscription-based animation tools, Procreate is a one-time purchase. This makes it more affordable while still offering professional-level features.
Limitations to Consider
Although animating on Procreate is fun and effective for many projects, it does come with limitations that users should be aware of.
- Not Ideal for Long AnimationsProcreate is best suited for short animations or loops rather than full-length animated films.
- Limited Timeline FeaturesCompared to advanced software, the timeline and layer management in Procreate are basic.
- No Audio SupportProcreate does not allow adding soundtracks or syncing animation to audio, which can be a drawback for more complex projects.
- Performance ConstraintsLarge canvases or high frame counts may slow down performance, depending on your iPad model.
Tips for Better Animations in Procreate
To make the most out of Procreate’s animation tools, a few techniques can help improve the quality and efficiency of your work.
Keep Animations Short
Focus on loops or short sequences for smooth performance and manageable file sizes. This also works well for social media sharing.
Plan Before Drawing
Sketch a rough storyboard or outline before starting. This helps you stay consistent and reduces unnecessary redrawing.
Use Layers Strategically
Separate different elements, like backgrounds and characters, into distinct layers to make editing easier.
Experiment with Frame Rate
Play around with frames per second to find the right pacing. Too slow can look choppy, while too fast may lose detail.
Who Should Use Procreate for Animation?
Procreate animation is suitable for a wide range of creators
- Artists and IllustratorsIdeal for those who want to explore animation alongside drawing.
- DesignersUseful for creating animated logos, icons, or promotional material.
- Social Media CreatorsPerfect for making GIFs, memes, or short engaging content.
- Students and HobbyistsAccessible for learning the basics of animation without expensive software.
So, can you animate on Procreate? Absolutely. With its Animation Assist tool, onion skinning, and export options, Procreate provides everything needed for frame-by-frame animation on an iPad. While it has limitations compared to dedicated animation software, it excels at short, creative projects, especially when combined with its powerful illustration tools. For artists who want to explore movement in their digital art, Procreate is a practical and enjoyable choice. By experimenting with different techniques, planning frames carefully, and keeping projects manageable, anyone can create engaging animations right on their iPad.