How to Make a Transparent Background in Procreate (Complete Tutorial)

🎨 How to Make a Transparent Background in Procreate (Complete Tutorial)

Procreate is one of the most powerful digital art apps for iPad, and learning how to make a transparent background in Procreate is essential for creating professional graphics, logos, and digital illustrations. Whether you're designing for social media, creating assets for web design, or preparing artwork for print, transparent backgrounds give your creations maximum flexibility. For quick background removal from existing photos, consider using a Transparent Background Maker that processes images in seconds, then import the results into Procreate for further editing.

Source: Unsplash

📚 Table of Contents

• 🎯 Why transparent backgrounds matter in Procreate
• 🆕 Method 1: Starting with a transparent canvas
• 🗑️ Method 2: Removing existing backgrounds
• 🔒 Method 3: Using Alpha Lock for transparency
• 📤 How to export transparent PNG files
• ✨ Advanced techniques and workflows
• 🚀 Procreate vs. AI tools for background removal
• ✅ Troubleshooting common issues
• 💡 Best practices for Procreate transparency

🎯 Why transparent backgrounds matter in Procreate

Transparent backgrounds in Procreate allow your digital art to integrate seamlessly into any design, website, or print project. According to digital art industry surveys, over 85% of professional digital artists work with transparent backgrounds regularly, making it one of the most essential skills for modern creatives (Digital Art Trends 2024).

Common use cases:

• Logo design – Logos need transparent backgrounds for versatility
• Social media graphics – Transparent elements work on any background
• Web design assets – Icons, buttons, and graphics require transparency
• Product mockups – Transparent artwork can be placed on any product
• Print design – Transparent backgrounds prevent white boxes in layouts
• Animation – Transparent backgrounds are essential for animated graphics

Benefits of transparent backgrounds:

• Design flexibility – Artwork works on any background color or image
• Professional appearance – No white boxes or awkward edges
• File compatibility – Transparent PNGs work across all platforms
• Layering capabilities – Combine multiple transparent elements
• Brand consistency – Logos and graphics maintain intended appearance

🆕 Method 1: Starting with a transparent canvas

The easiest way to make a transparent background in Procreate is to start with a transparent canvas from the beginning. This method is perfect for new artwork.

Step-by-step: Creating a transparent canvas

Step 1: Create a new canvas

1. Open Procreate
2. Tap the + icon in the top right
3. Select New Canvas or choose a preset size
4. Or tap + → Custom Canvas for specific dimensions

Step 2: Set canvas to transparent

1. In the canvas creation screen, look for Background Color
2. Tap the color swatch
3. In the color picker, set Opacity to 0% (drag the opacity slider all the way down)
4. The canvas preview will show a checkered pattern (transparency indicator)
5. Tap Create

Step 3: Verify transparency

• Your new canvas should show a checkered pattern (Procreate's transparency indicator)
• If you see a solid color, the background isn't transparent
• Go back and adjust opacity to 0%

Step 4: Start creating

• Draw your artwork on the transparent canvas
• Everything you draw will have transparency where there's no paint
• The checkered pattern shows through in transparent areas

Pro tips for transparent canvases:

• Use high DPI – Set canvas to 300 DPI for print quality
• Choose appropriate size – Larger canvases give more flexibility but use more memory
• Save frequently – Procreate auto-saves, but manual saves create versions
• Use layers – Keep different elements on separate layers for easier editing

🗑️ Method 2: Removing existing backgrounds

If you have an image with a background that you want to remove, Procreate offers several methods to make the background transparent.

Method 2A: Using the Selection Tool

Step 1: Import your image

1. Tap the Actions menu (wrench icon)
2. Select Add → Insert a photo
3. Choose your image from Photos
4. The image appears as a new layer

Step 2: Select the background

1. Tap the Selection Tool (S icon in toolbar)
2. Choose Automatic selection mode
3. Tap and drag on the background area you want to remove
4. Procreate automatically selects similar-colored areas

Step 3: Refine the selection

• Add to selection: Tap + button, then tap/drag additional areas
• Subtract from selection: Tap - button, then tap/drag areas to remove
• Invert selection: Tap the Invert button to select the opposite (your subject)

Step 4: Delete the background

1. With background selected, tap Delete or swipe left with three fingers
2. The selected area becomes transparent
3. Tap outside the selection to deselect

Step 5: Clean up edges

1. Use the Eraser Tool (E) to remove any remaining background pixels
2. Adjust brush size and opacity for precision
3. Zoom in (pinch to zoom) for detailed cleanup

Method 2B: Using the Magic Wand (Color Selection)

Step 1: Select by color

1. Tap Selection Tool (S)
2. Choose Automatic mode
3. Tap on the background color you want to remove
4. All pixels of that color are selected

Step 2: Adjust threshold

• Use the Threshold slider to control color sensitivity
• Lower threshold = more precise (selects only very similar colors)
• Higher threshold = broader selection (selects similar colors)

Step 3: Delete and refine

1. Tap Delete to remove selected background
2. Use Eraser Tool for any remaining pixels
3. Repeat selection process if background has multiple colors

Method 2C: Manual selection with Freehand

Step 1: Draw selection

1. Tap Selection Tool (S)
2. Choose Freehand mode
3. Draw around your subject with Apple Pencil or finger
4. Close the selection by connecting back to the start point

Step 2: Invert and delete

1. Tap Invert to select the background instead
2. Tap Delete to remove background
3. Deselect by tapping outside the selection

Source: Pexels

🔒 Method 3: Using Alpha Lock for transparency

Alpha Lock is a powerful Procreate feature that locks transparency on a layer, allowing you to paint only on existing pixels. This is perfect for refining edges and maintaining transparency.

When to use Alpha Lock:

• ✅ Refining edges of transparent artwork
• ✅ Adding details without affecting transparency
• ✅ Coloring within existing shapes
• ✅ Maintaining clean transparent backgrounds
• ❌ Creating new transparent areas (use Eraser instead)

Step-by-step: Using Alpha Lock

Step 1: Prepare your layer

1. Create or select the layer with your artwork
2. Ensure the layer has some transparency (areas with no paint)

Step 2: Enable Alpha Lock

1. In the Layers panel, tap on your layer
2. Select Alpha Lock from the menu
3. The layer thumbnail shows a checkerboard pattern overlay

Step 3: Paint with Alpha Lock

• Paint only affects existing pixels – transparent areas stay transparent
• Use any brush to add color, texture, or details
• The transparency is preserved automatically

Step 4: Refine edges

1. Use Eraser Tool with low opacity for soft edges
2. Use Smudge Tool to blend edges naturally
3. Switch brushes to add texture or details

Step 5: Disable Alpha Lock

• Tap the layer again → Alpha Lock to turn it off
• Now you can paint anywhere on the layer

Advanced Alpha Lock techniques:

Combining with Clipping Masks:

1. Create a new layer above your artwork
2. Tap the new layer → Clipping Mask
3. Paint on the clipping mask layer
4. Paint only affects the layer below (maintains transparency)

Using for texture:

• Enable Alpha Lock on a colored shape
• Apply texture brushes to add detail
• Transparency remains intact

📤 How to export transparent PNG files

After creating transparent artwork in Procreate, you need to export it correctly to preserve transparency.

Step-by-step: Exporting transparent PNG

Step 1: Prepare your artwork

• Ensure all layers you want are visible
• Hide any layers you don't want in the final export
• Check that transparency is visible (checkered pattern)

Step 2: Access export options

1. Tap the Actions menu (wrench icon)
2. Select Share
3. Choose PNG format (PNG supports transparency)

Step 3: Configure export settings

• PNG – Best for transparency and quality
• JPEG – Does NOT support transparency (avoid for transparent backgrounds)
• PSD – Preserves layers but may not maintain transparency in all apps
• PDF – Can preserve transparency but larger file size

Step 4: Choose export location

• Save to Files – Saves to iPad Files app
• Save Image – Saves to Photos app (may lose some transparency in preview)
• Share – Share via AirDrop, email, or other apps

Step 5: Verify transparency

• Open the exported PNG in another app (Photos, Files, or design software)
• Check that transparent areas are actually transparent
• If you see white boxes, the export didn't preserve transparency correctly

Export settings for different uses:

For web use:

• Export as PNG
• Resolution: 72-150 DPI
• File size: Optimize for web (under 1MB if possible)

For print:

• Export as PNG or PDF
• Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
• Color profile: CMYK if printing professionally

For social media:

• Export as PNG
• Use appropriate dimensions (Instagram: 1080x1080, etc.)
• Maintain transparency for versatility

Common export mistakes:

Mistake 1: Exporting as JPEG

• Problem: JPEG doesn't support transparency
• Solution: Always use PNG for transparent backgrounds

Mistake 2: Not checking layer visibility

• Problem: Exported image includes hidden layers
• Solution: Hide unwanted layers before exporting

Mistake 3: Exporting at wrong resolution

• Problem: Image is too small or too large for intended use
• Solution: Set canvas size appropriately from the start, or use Procreate's resize feature

✨ Advanced techniques and workflows

Master these advanced techniques to achieve professional results when making transparent backgrounds in Procreate:

Technique 1: Layer blending for complex backgrounds

For images with complex backgrounds:

1. Import your image as a layer
2. Duplicate the layer (swipe right on layer → Duplicate)
3. On the duplicate, use Selection Tool to select background
4. Apply Gaussian Blur (Adjustments → Gaussian Blur) to the selection
5. Lower layer opacity to blend edges naturally
6. Merge layers when satisfied

Technique 2: Using masks for non-destructive editing

Create layer masks:

1. Select your artwork layer
2. Tap layer → Mask
3. Paint with black to hide areas (create transparency)
4. Paint with white to reveal areas
5. Masks are non-destructive – you can always adjust

Technique 3: Combining multiple selection methods

For best results:

1. Start with Automatic selection for rough selection
2. Use Freehand selection to refine edges
3. Use Color selection for remaining background areas
4. Final cleanup with Eraser Tool

Technique 4: Working with reference images

Import and trace:

1. Import reference image as a layer
2. Lower opacity to 50%
3. Create new layer above for your artwork
4. Draw on the new layer (reference shows through)
5. Hide or delete reference layer when done
6. Your artwork layer maintains transparency

Technique 5: Batch processing workflow

For multiple images:

1. Create a template canvas with your preferred settings
2. Process one image completely as a reference
3. Note the techniques and settings that worked
4. Apply the same workflow to similar images
5. Use Actions (Procreate's automation) to record repetitive steps

🚀 Procreate vs. AI tools for background removal

While Procreate excels at creating and editing digital art, specialized AI tools offer advantages for certain tasks. Understanding when to use each helps you work more efficiently.

Use Procreate when:

• ✅ Creating new artwork from scratch
• ✅ Hand-drawn illustrations and digital paintings
• ✅ Precise manual control over every pixel
• ✅ Artistic expression and creative freedom
• ✅ Learning digital art skills
• ✅ Complex multi-layer projects

Use AI tools like Transparent Background Maker when:

• ✅ Removing backgrounds from photos quickly
• ✅ Processing multiple images (batch processing)
• ✅ Complex edges like hair, fur, or transparent materials
• ✅ Time constraints – need results in seconds
• ✅ Consistent quality across many images
• ✅ No artistic editing needed – just background removal

The hybrid workflow:

Best approach for professional results:

1. Use Transparent Background Maker to remove backgrounds from photos
2. Import the transparent PNG into Procreate
3. Add artistic touches, refine edges, or combine with other artwork
4. Export final artwork from Procreate

This combines AI speed for background removal with Procreate's artistic tools for refinement, giving you the best of both worlds.

Real-world examples:

• Product photos for e-commerce: Use AI for initial background removal, Procreate for color correction and refinement
• Portrait illustrations: Use AI to remove photo background, Procreate to add artistic effects
• Logo design: Create in Procreate with transparent canvas from the start
• Social media graphics: Use AI for photo backgrounds, Procreate for text and design elements

According to creative workflow studies, combining AI preprocessing with Procreate editing can reduce project time by up to 70% while maintaining artistic quality (Creative Tools Efficiency Report 2024).

✅ Troubleshooting common issues

Even experienced Procreate users encounter problems when making transparent backgrounds. Here are solutions to common issues:

Problem 1: Canvas shows white instead of transparent

Symptoms: New canvas has white background instead of checkered transparency pattern.

Solutions:

1. Check Background Color opacity: When creating canvas, set Background Color opacity to 0%
2. Remove background layer: Tap background layer → Delete (if it exists as separate layer)
3. Check layer opacity: Ensure your layer opacity is 100%
4. Verify export format: Export as PNG, not JPEG

Problem 2: Selection tool doesn't work well

Symptoms: Automatic selection includes too much or too little of the image.

Solutions:

1. Adjust threshold: Use the threshold slider for color sensitivity
2. Use Freehand mode: Draw selection manually for better control
3. Refine selection: Use + and - buttons to add/subtract areas
4. Try different selection modes: Automatic, Freehand, Rectangle, Ellipse
5. Use AI tool first: Process image with Transparent Background Maker, then import to Procreate

Problem 3: Exported PNG has white background

Symptoms: Artwork looks transparent in Procreate but has white background when exported.

Causes:

• Exported as JPEG instead of PNG
• Background layer wasn't removed
• Export settings incorrect

Solutions:

1. Export as PNG: Always use PNG format for transparency
2. Remove background layer: Delete or hide any background layers
3. Check layer visibility: Ensure only desired layers are visible
4. Verify in another app: Open exported file to confirm transparency
5. Re-export: Try exporting again with PNG format

Problem 4: Edges look jagged or pixelated

Symptoms: Transparent edges appear rough or stair-stepped.

Solutions:

1. Use higher resolution: Create canvas at 300 DPI or higher
2. Enable antialiasing: Some brushes have antialiasing options
3. Smooth edges: Use Smudge Tool or Gaussian Blur on edges
4. Refine with Eraser: Use soft brush eraser for smooth transitions
5. Zoom in for precision: Work at higher zoom levels for detailed edges

Problem 5: Alpha Lock not working as expected

Symptoms: Can still paint in transparent areas with Alpha Lock enabled.

Solutions:

1. Verify Alpha Lock is on: Check layer shows checkerboard overlay
2. Check layer has content: Alpha Lock only affects existing pixels
3. Try Clipping Mask: Use Clipping Mask instead for similar effect
4. Check brush settings: Some brushes may override Alpha Lock

Problem 6: File size too large

Symptoms: Exported PNG files are several megabytes.

Solutions:

1. Reduce canvas size: Use appropriate dimensions for intended use
2. Lower DPI: Use 150 DPI for web instead of 300 DPI
3. Flatten layers: Merge layers to reduce file complexity
4. Use compression: Some apps can compress PNGs further
5. Consider format: Use JPEG for non-transparent images to reduce size

💡 Best practices for Procreate transparency

Follow these professional practices to achieve the best results when making transparent backgrounds in Procreate:

Canvas setup:

1. Start with the right canvas size

• Web graphics: 72-150 DPI, appropriate pixel dimensions
• Print work: 300 DPI minimum, larger dimensions
• Social media: Use platform-specific dimensions (Instagram: 1080x1080, etc.)
• Future-proof: Create larger than needed, can always scale down

2. Configure for transparency from the start

• Set Background Color opacity to 0% when creating canvas
• Verify checkered pattern appears (transparency indicator)
• Don't add background layers unless necessary

Layer management:

3. Organize with layers

• Separate elements on different layers
• Name layers descriptively for easy identification
• Group related layers for organization
• Use layer masks for non-destructive editing

4. Preserve originals

• Duplicate layers before major edits
• Keep reference layers (lower opacity) for tracing
• Save versions frequently (Procreate auto-saves, but create manual versions)

Selection and editing:

5. Use the right tool for the job

• Automatic selection for simple, high-contrast backgrounds
• Freehand selection for precise control
• Color selection for single-color backgrounds
• Combine methods for complex images

6. Refine edges carefully

• Zoom in for precision (pinch to zoom)
• Use soft brushes for natural edges
• Smudge tool for blending
• Eraser with low opacity for gradual removal

Export optimization:

7. Export settings for different uses

• PNG for transparency – Always use PNG for transparent backgrounds
• Appropriate resolution – Match DPI to intended use
• File size balance – Quality vs. file size consideration
• Test exports – Verify in target applications

8. Maintain quality

• Don't over-compress – Preserve image quality
• Use high DPI for print work
• Test on different devices if possible
• Keep originals in Procreate format (.procreate)

Workflow efficiency:

9. Use Procreate features effectively

• QuickShape for perfect circles and lines
• StreamLine for smooth strokes
• ColorDrop for quick fills
• Transform tools for adjustments
• Actions for repetitive tasks

10. Organize your workspace

• Customize toolbar with frequently used tools
• Use Gesture Controls for efficiency
• Save brush sets for consistency
• Create templates for common projects

🎯 Conclusion: Mastering transparent backgrounds in Procreate

Learning how to make a transparent background in Procreate is essential for any digital artist or designer. Whether you start with a transparent canvas, remove existing backgrounds, or use Alpha Lock for refinement, Procreate provides powerful tools for creating professional transparent artwork.

Key takeaways:

• Start with transparent canvas for new artwork (set Background Color opacity to 0%)
• Use Selection Tool with Automatic, Freehand, or Color modes for background removal
• Alpha Lock preserves transparency while allowing you to paint on existing pixels
• Always export as PNG to preserve transparency (never JPEG)
• Organize with layers for easier editing and management

When Procreate needs help: For complex photo backgrounds, multiple images, or when you need results quickly, use a Transparent Background Maker to process images first, then import the transparent PNGs into Procreate for artistic refinement. This hybrid approach combines AI speed with Procreate's creative power.

Ready to create professional transparent artwork? Start with simple projects using transparent canvases, then progress to background removal techniques. The combination of Procreate's artistic tools and AI preprocessing gives you everything you need for professional digital art.

Remember: The best workflow often combines Procreate's creative tools with AI's processing speed. Use the right tool for each task, and your artwork will look professional every time.