How to Remove Background in Procreate?

Ever envisioned using your Procreate illustration as a standalone sticker or placing it on a new background to create a unique scene? Perhaps you simply desire a clean, polished look for your artwork. Fortunately, Procreate equips you with a couple of methods to effortlessly remove unwanted backgrounds, transforming your creation into a versatile asset.

This comprehensive guide delves into two effective techniques for background removal in Procreate:

• The Freehand Selection Method: Ideal for achieving meticulous control over your subject's outline.
• The Automatic Selection Method: Perfect for simpler backgrounds and swift selection processes.

We'll meticulously explore each method, providing step-by-step instructions to empower you to choose the approach that best aligns with your project and skill level.

Freehand Selection: meticulously Carving Out Your Subject

The freehand selection method offers exceptional control, enabling you to meticulously trace the edges of your subject with precision. Here's how to leverage this method:

1. Import Your Image: Begin by opening the image you wish to edit within Procreate.
2. Activate the Selection Tool: Locate the "Selection" icon situated in the top toolbar and tap on it. From the bottom menu, choose "Freehand."
3. Trace Your Subject with Precision: With meticulous care, draw an outline encompassing your subject. Ensure you stay within the edges for an accurate selection. If you make a misstep, simply tap the canvas with two fingers to undo the last action.
4. Closing the Path: Once you've completed your outline, tap the grey dot situated at either the beginning or end of your traced path. This action closes the selection.
5. Invert the Selection (Optional): In situations where your subject appears selected (indicated by a dotted line appearing around it), navigate to the Selection menu and tap "Invert." This ensures that your subject remains visible while targeting the background for removal.
6. Refine Your Selection (Optional): Procreate offers a "Refine" option that enables you to make further adjustments to your selection. You can utilize this feature to add or subtract specific areas, achieving a more precise cut-out of your subject.
7. Cut or Copy: After finalizing your selection, tap "Cut" to entirely remove the background. Alternatively, choose "Copy" to create a duplicate of your subject on a new layer within your project.
8. Clearing the Background: If you opted for "Cut" in the previous step, the background will be successfully removed. To confirm this change, tap the "Layers" icon and select "Clear" on the background layer.

For flawless background removal, check it out today.

Automatic Selection: A Speedy Background Removal Technique

For projects featuring simpler backgrounds or when you require a quick selection process, the automatic selection method offers a valuable time-saving solution. Here's a breakdown of how to use it:

1. Open Your Image: Ensure the image you intend to edit is loaded within Procreate.
2. Accessing the Selection Tool: Tap on the "Selection" icon and choose "Automatic" from the menu displayed at the bottom of your screen.
3. Tap on the Background: Begin tapping on various areas of the background that you wish to remove. As you tap, the selection area will progressively expand.
4. Adjusting the Threshold (Optional): Procreate offers a "Threshold" slider. Dragging this slider to the right will increase the area encompassed by the selection. Conversely, dragging it left will limit the selection to a smaller area.
5. Refine the Selection (Optional): Similar to the freehand selection method, you can utilize the "Refine" option for minor adjustments to your selection.
6. Copy or Cut: Choose "Cut" to eliminate the background entirely or "Copy" to duplicate your subject onto a new layer within your project.
7. Clearing the Background (if using Cut): Tap on "Layers" followed by "Clear" on the background layer to permanently remove it.

For flawless background removal, check it out today.

Saving Your Work: Preserving Your Masterpiece

Once you've successfully removed the background and are satisfied with your work, it's time to save your creation! Here's a quick guide on how to do so:

1. Tap the "Actions" menu, which is represented by a wrench icon.
2. Choose "Share."
3. Select your preferred export format. For transparent backgrounds, the PNG format is highly recommended.
4. Choose a filename and location to save your image.

By mastering these background removal techniques, you'll be well-equipped to effortlessly isolate your subjects in Procreate, unlocking a world of creative possibilities. From incorporating your creations into unique design projects to using them as standalone stickers, the possibilities are boundless!