Clipping Mask in Procreate

Basically, a clipping mask is an invisible layer that can help you to mask the different pixels of the layer below. Procreate’s functionality allows you to easily create and use clipping masks, so you will be able to enjoy all the possibilities this tool offers. 

In this article, we will have a look at the process of creating clipping masks in Procreate, and how you can use it in your work. Just follow the steps mentioned in this tutorial.

What Is a Clipping Mask?

A clipping mask allows you to hide everything that is outside of it. With this invisible layer, you have a range of possibilities for different design and art purposes. For example, you can create masks and complex clipping paths without the necessity to use the eraser tool. 

You can also turn an existing layer of artwork into a clipping mask. In this case, the layer will only show the pixels that are within the clipping mask.

Why You May Need a Clipping Mask in Procreate?

When working with this versatile app, you may need to create clipping masks within different processes. As an example, you may need it to create the first layer of your art or to link two layers together. Generally, clipping masks are used to: 

• create a shape and then link a photo to fit within the parameters of that shape. 
• to make selective adjustments to a single layer of your document. 
• to improve the shading of your artwork.

One popular use case for clipping masks is that they make it easy to add shadows, highlights, and shading to your work. You can also add various details, and this is a relatively easy way that does not require much time and effort. Also, by adding details or color adjustments using clipping masks, you will not affect the original shape below your clipping mask.

Shading is an important and tricky part of artwork. Having such an easy way to make it better, you will only benefit, because it will make it much easier to achieve quality. Also, you will be able to add details faster and work much better with shadows and highlights.

How to Use a Clipping Mask in Procreate: Simple Steps

There are different options for creating clipping masks, as well as for working with them. In order to create a clipping mask, or a layer mask in Procreate, simply follow these steps:

1. Create a layer that will be used for creating a clipping mask. Tap the plus sign on the layers panel and add a layer.
2. Click on the layer and select the clipping mask option on the layer actions menu.
3. As the clipping mask layer is created, you can draw or add images to it.

You can also turn an existing layer into a clipping mask. After you create a mask, you will see it clipped to the object on the layer below.

To Sum It Up

With the clipping mask option, you can easily control the visibility of a layer based on the content of another. Clipping masks are a simple and versatile tool. You don’t need to know all the Procreate adjustments to create a clipping mask. Simply follow the steps mentioned above.

As you can see, creating clipping masks is not as difficult as it may seem. However, Procreate offers versatile and robust functionality that will help you substantially in your work. You can work much easier with the functionality of Procreate and deal with even complex tasks much easier if you learn the theory. That is why we have prepared information for you to help you explore this application and use it for your artwork.

 By simply knowing all of the main functions of Procreate, you will be able to expand your creative abilities and achieve new results in terms of creativity. Also, to know how to delete layers in Procreate, check out our tutorial, and for new artistic tools, check out our collection of Procreate brushes.