Last Updated on April 11, 2023 by Dee
If you’re an artist or designer relying on digital tools, you might have heard about Procreate, a popular iPad drawing and illustration app for iPads. One question you may have is “does Procreate need wifi?” or an internet connection to work properly?
Good news! Procreate does not actually need an internet connection to function. This means you can use Procreate’s full range of features offline without worrying about internet connection.
In this article, we’ll discuss how this is possible and the benefits of using the Procreate app without WiFi.
Does Procreate Need Wifi?
Many artists might wonder if Procreate requires a constant internet connection to function. Good news! Procreate doesn’t need the internet or WiFi to work on an iPad. You can fully utilize all the same features while being offline.
One reason Procreate is appealing and user-friendly is its ability to work seamlessly without an internet connection, providing artists with the freedom to create anywhere, anytime. This feature is quite handy for those who find inspiration in different environments or while traveling.
However, it’s essential to recognize that some operations may require an internet connection, such as downloading new brushes, making in app purchases or updating the app. But once these additional features and updates are installed, you can use Procreate offline without any limitations.
So, whether you’re sketching in a park, painting on a plane, or doodling in a coffee shop without WiFi, Procreate will keep you creating without interruption.
Procreate’s Basic Functionality
Creating Art Without Wifi
Procreate is a popular digital art app designed exclusively for iPad, and one of its biggest strengths is its ability to function without an internet connection. You can use all of Procreate’s features to their full capacity, even offline.
This means you can create, edit, and save your artwork without worrying about Wi-Fi or the internet.
Accessing Local Files and Projects
Another advantage of Procreate’s offline capabilities is the ability to access your locally stored files and projects. When you’re not connected to Wi-Fi or the internet, you can still open, work on, and save your projects. This allows you to continue working on your art, regardless of your internet connection status.
To set up Procreate for offline use, it’s essential to download the app while connected to Wi-Fi or the internet. Once the app is installed on your iPad, you’re ready to start creating and managing your projects without the need for an internet connection(source).
Wifi-Based Features in Procreate
Cloud Syncing and Backups
Although Procreate does not require internet or WiFi to function, connecting to a network can provide some handy features. One of those features is cloud syncing and backups. By connecting to iCloud or other cloud storage services, you can ensure that your Procreate work is safely backed up.
Keeping your illustrations and projects synced across devices also becomes more convenient with WiFi. This means you can access your work from any device that has Procreate installed and a connection to your cloud storage account.
Importing and Exporting Files
WiFi connection becomes useful when importing and exporting files in Procreate. While you can use local storage to transfer files, connecting to the internet expands your options. You can import brushes or artwork from external sources, and also directly export your completed work to online platforms such as social media or digital galleries.
Performing these tasks becomes faster and more straightforward when you have a reliable internet connection, as you can instantly access both online resources and share your work with a broader audience.
Streaming and Sharing
Procreate supports live streaming through platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook, which require a stable WiFi connection. This allows you to share your creative process with others, hold interactive tutorials, or engage with your fans and followers.
An active internet connection also enables you to collaborate on projects with other artists and share your work with them more efficiently, potentially boosting your creativity and growth as an artist.
Section 5: Alternatives and Workarounds
Using Procreate Offline
Surprisingly, Procreate does not require Wi-Fi or an internet connection to function on your iPad. Adventures with Art confirms that you can use all of Procreate’s features to their full capacities while offline.
This allows artists to draw and paint on the go, even in areas without internet access.
What do you need to run Procreate offline?
To start using Procreate offline, ensure the app is installed on your iPad. You should be connected to Wi-Fi when downloading the app from the App Store, as mentioned by SoftwareHow.
Once the installation is complete, you’re set to work in Procreate without an internet connection.
Handling File Transfers Without Wi-Fi
Although Procreate itself doesn’t rely on an internet connection for its core functions, you may encounter some limitations when sharing or transferring files without Wi-Fi. Here are a few solutions to work around these limitations:
- Airdrop: If you have another Apple device, you can use Airdrop for transferring files without requiring Wi-Fi.
- USB Cable: Connect your iPad to a computer using a USB cable and transfer files directly between the devices.
- External Storage: Use external storage devices such as flash drives or hard drives that are compatible with your iPad to move files between devices.
By using these alternatives and workarounds, you can successfully use Procreate offline and manage file transfers without relying on Wi-Fi or internet access.
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The Benefits of Using Procreate (or Procreate Pocket)
One of the major advantages of Procreate is that it doesn’t need the internet or WiFi to function.
Artists can work on their projects without an internet connection, allowing maximum flexibility and creativity, even offline.
Procreate offers a wide range of powerful drawing and painting tools, mimicking traditional mediums like oil paints, watercolors, and more. These tools help artists easily transition from physical to digital art, without losing the essence of their creative process.
Thanks to its intuitive user interface, Procreate is easy to learn and use, even for beginners. It also supports Apple’s tablet and stylus, enhancing precision and control while drawing or painting on the iPad.
As an added bonus, Procreate stores all files locally, ensuring your artwork remains safe and accessible, even without an internet connection. This feature is particularly helpful for artists who often travel or work in areas with limited connectivity.
In summary, Procreate is a versatile and powerful digital art application that works seamlessly without the need for WiFi or internet connections, ensuring artists can create outstanding work anytime, anywhere.
Can You Use Procreate on Any Tablet?
Procreate is specifically designed for iPads and is not compatible with other tablets. However, within the iPad family, there are a number of models that can smoothly run Procreate.
In this section, we’ll discuss the differences between iPad Pro and iPad Air and which iPads are best for different experience levels, including beginners.
iPad Pro vs iPad Air for Procreate
Both the iPad Pro and iPad Air can be used to run Procreate, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The iPad Pro is the more powerful option, offering faster performance and more advanced features. On the other hand, the iPad Air is a more wallet-friendly choice but still provides excellent performance for Procreate users. Your decision will ultimately depend on your budget and personal preferences.
iPad Pro: Overall Best iPad for Procreate (digital artwork)
When it comes to the best iPad for digital artwork in Procreate, the iPad Pro takes the crown. Its powerful processor, large display, and compatibility with the latest Apple Pencil make it the ideal choice for artists who want to experience the full capabilities of Procreate. With the iPad Pro, you can tap into advanced features like high-resolution canvases and more intricate brush settings.
iPad Mini: Best beginner iPad for Procreate
For those just starting with Procreate, the iPad Mini is a great option. This compact and more affordable device still allows you to access a majority of Procreate’s features while keeping the entry cost low. The iPad Mini is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a portable drawing experience. Keep in mind, however, that the smaller screen may not be suitable for detailed work or advanced users.
Accessories Required for iPad on Procreate
Can You Use Procreate Without an Apple Pencil?
Although Procreate can be used without an Apple Pencil, it is highly recommended to use one for the best experience. The Apple Pencil is specifically designed for drawing and provides finer control, precision, and pressure sensitivity than using your finger.
Procreate fully supports the Apple Pencil, and as long as it’s paired with a compatible iPad, you’ll be able to access all of its features with ease, even without WiFi or an internet connection.
Apple Pencil or Stylus for iPad when using Procreate?
While other styluses can be used with Procreate, the Apple Pencil is the best option for artists using the app. This is because it provides a seamless and natural drawing experience, offering unmatched precision and features like pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition.
Overall, the Apple Pencil is the ideal choice for users aiming to get the most out of Procreate. However, if you’re on a budget or have a non-compatible iPad, other good-quality styluses can be considered as an alternative. Just keep in mind that these styluses may not offer the same level of smoothness and precision as the Apple Pencil.
Setting Up Your Procreate Canvas
Sketching a New Procreate Layer
Start by opening the Procreate app and creating a new canvas. Click the “+” button on the top right corner and choose your canvas size. Once your canvas is set up, you can begin sketching using a new Procreate layer. To add a new layer, click on the “Layers” icon and then tap the “+” button.
Actions Menu
The Actions Menu is a vital tool in Procreate, as it allows you to perform various operations such as transforming, duplicating, and merging layers. To access the Actions Menu, tap the wrench icon in the top left corner of the screen.
Smudge Tool
Experiment with the Smudge tool to blend your colors and create a smooth transition between them. To use the Smudge tool, tap on the brush icon with two dots in the top right corner, and choose a brush for smudging. Adjust the size and opacity of the brush as needed to achieve the desired effect.
Experiment with Default Procreate Brushes
Procreate offers a variety of default brushes for you to experiment with. To access these brushes, simply tap on the brush icon in the top right corner of the screen. You can modify each brush’s settings to create custom brushes that suit your preferences and style.
Exporting Procreate Artwork
When you’ve finished your artwork, you can export it in various formats. To do this, open the Actions Menu by tapping the wrench icon and select “Share”. Choose the desired file format and quality settings for your export, and share it to your desired location.
Organizing and Sharing Your Procreate Artwork
Keeping your digital artwork organized and sharing your creations with others is essential to your creative journey. Procreate offers several features to help you stay organized and easily share your artwork with your friends, fans, or clients.
To manage your artwork inside Procreate, you can make use of the Gallery View, where you can view and sort all your pieces. Here, you can name your creations, swipe and reorder them, and even group your work into stacks to categorize them based on projects or themes.
Sharing your Procreate artwork is also simple and convenient, as the app provides multiple export options. You can export your art as a JPEG, PNG, TIFF, GIF, or even a Procreate file, which retains all layers and editing capabilities. Furthermore, exporting as a PSD file allows you to seamlessly share your project with other Adobe programs for further editing.
When it comes to showcasing your Procreate art on various platforms, you can easily share your exported files to social media profiles, websites, and personal portfolios. Your artworks can also be sent directly to other devices, such as your computer, via email, Airdrop, or cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive.
Should You Use a Screen Protector With Procreate?
Is it necessary to use a screen protector with Procreate? The truth is, it depends on personal preferences and needs. Some artists find a screen protector beneficial, while others feel it’s not essential. There are a few factors worth considering to help you decide whether to use a screen protector with Procreate on an iPad.
Firstly, using a screen protector can help protect your screen from scratches, especially during frequent drawing sessions. Applying a screen protector to your iPad means you’re less likely to damage the surface, which is particularly useful if you’re planning to use Procreate daily.
Secondly, some screen protectors mimic the feel of paper, such as PaperLike, which may be desirable for some artists. This type of screen protector provides a more textured drawing experience compared to the smooth glass surface of the iPad. It can enhance the drawing experience by increasing friction, making it feel more natural and similar to drawing on traditional media.
However, not all artists find a screen protector necessary. Some may appreciate the smooth feel of the iPad’s glass surface and not find it impactful enough to warrant the additional expense. While those who use iPad’s primarily for notes or consumption of media might not find an impact in workflow.
So, should you use a screen protector with Procreate? Ultimately, it comes down to what feels best for you and your drawing style. It’s worth experimenting with different screen protectors or even trying Procreate without one to determine your personal preferences and requirements.
Should you Use a Drawing Glove?
If you’re an artist working on your iPad in Procreate, you might want to consider using a drawing glove. Why, you ask? Well, let me tell you.
First of all, drawing gloves help to reduce friction between your hand and the screen. When you’re drawing for long periods of time, your hand can start to stick to the screen, making it harder to move smoothly. A drawing glove will help your hand glide across the screen more easily, allowing you to focus on your art.
Secondly, drawing gloves can help to reduce smudging. If you’re using your bare hand to draw on your iPad, you might find that your hand smudges the screen, making it harder to see what you’re doing. A drawing glove will help to prevent this, keeping your screen clean and clear.
Finally, drawing gloves can be more comfortable to use than your bare hand. If you’re drawing for hours on end, your hand can start to get sweaty and uncomfortable. A drawing glove will help to keep your hand dry and cool, making it easier to work for longer periods of time.
Now, you might be wondering where to get a good drawing glove. Well, there are a few great options out there. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Huion Artist Glove – This glove is made of a soft and breathable material that will keep your hand comfortable while you work. It’s also affordable and comes in a variety of sizes.
- Mudder Drawing Glove – This glove is made of a smooth and flexible material that will help your hand glide across the screen. It also has an anti-slip design to keep it in place while you work.
- SmudgeGuard – This glove is specifically designed to prevent smudging, with a special material that won’t leave any marks on your screen. It’s also made of a stretchy and breathable material that will keep your hand comfortable.
So there you have it! If you’re an artist working on your iPad in Procreate, a drawing glove is definitely worth considering. Not only will it help you work more comfortably, but it will also help you create better art.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a professional artist or a casual doodler, Procreate is essential for anyone looking to create stunning digital art. If you have been asking yourself “does Procreate need wifi”, well, now you know! The mystery has been uncovered 😉 And now, you can use this powerful app with confidence and clarity.
So go forth and create, knowing that you don’t need to be tethered to the internet to unleash your creativity. We hope this post has been helpful and informative, and we can’t wait to see what amazing digital art you create with Procreate!
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