How to Draw Digital Art: 3 Secrets to Creating Fast and Beautiful Digital Paintings

If you're looking to learn digital art but don't know where to start, this article will help you quickly grasp what's truly necessary: ​​minimum equipment, suitable software, and basic practice techniques. Digital art is appealing because you can draw, edit, experiment with colors, and create without limits without fear of ruining your artwork.

With just a computer, digital drawing software, and a drawing tablet, you can fully enter this modern creative world. This article will guide you step-by-step in an easy-to-understand and practical way, so you can confidently create your first digital paintings.

Guide to creating digital art

1. Sketch out your ideas on paper.

• Quickly sketch the composition, character, or object you want to depict.

• Keep the design simple to make it easier to transfer to digital later.

• This step helps you form your ideas before you start drawing digital art.

2. Scan the drawings into the computer.

• Use a scanner or take a clear photo with your phone.

• Ensure even lighting and avoid shadows so the software can focus better.

• Save the file in JPG or PNG format for easier handling.

3. Open the file in digital drawing software.

• Choose suitable software such as Photoshop, Procreate, or Krita.

• Create a new file with sufficient size and resolution for the digital image to be clear.

4. Create multiple layers for flexibility when editing.

• Separate layers for sketching, line art, color, shadows, and details.

• This allows you to fix errors easily without affecting other parts.

• Layers are a crucial element when learning to create digital art for beginners.

5. Redraw the outline clearly.

• Use a suitable liner pen to trace over the entire image.

• Adjust the thickness of the lines to make the digital artwork look more natural.

• Delete or hide the outline layer after you're finished.

6. Color, add details, and add shading.

• Start with the base colors, then add light and dark shades to create depth.

• Use separate layers for highlights and shadows for easier editing.

• Try different color palettes to create more harmonious digital art.

7. Merge layers and export the file.

• Once completed, merge the layers to optimize file size.

• Export the file in PNG or JPEG format for online uploading, or TIFF if high quality is required.

• Save an additional PSD/Procreate file so you can edit it later.

Tip 1: Prepare for effective digital art creation.

Step 1: Sketch out your ideas on paper.

1. Start with a simple sketch.

• Use a pencil to easily correct mistakes when needed.

• Focus on the overall shape, composition, and general feel of the character or object.

• If you have a scanner, this is the best way to transfer your drawings to your computer with clear quality.

2. No need to go into too much detail too early.

• Don't rush to add details like fur, fabric folds, or complex textures.

• In the sketching stage, it's crucial to capture the correct posture, basic anatomy, and composition.

• Small details can be added later when converting to digital art.

3. Accept that the drawings will undergo many changes.

• The sketch is just the initial outline; it doesn't need to be perfect.

• When you switch to digital drawing, you'll need to adjust many aspects such as proportions, lines, and posing.

• The important thing is to retain the "main idea" and spirit of the painting.

Step 2: Scan the drawing into the computer.

1. Place the drawing correctly on the scanner.

• Place the drawing face down on the scanner's glass surface.

• Make sure the paper is lying flat so the image doesn't get misaligned or distorted when scanning.

• Close the scanner lid to prevent light from entering, resulting in clearer images.

2. Proceed with scanning the drawings.

• Open the software that came with the scanner and select the appropriate scanning mode.

• Press the Scan button and wait for the machine to process.

• Check the image again to see if the details are clear and the lighting is sufficient.

3. Save the file in high quality.

• Name the file in an easy-to-remember name that matches the drawing's content.

• Save it in PNG or JPEG format to maintain good quality when you import it into digital drawing software.

• If further adjustments are needed, you can rescan to achieve the desired sharpness.

Step 3: Open the file in digital drawing software.

1. Choose the software that best suits your needs.

• GIMP is a good choice for beginners because it's free and has many basic tools for creating digital art.

• Adobe Photoshop is widely used because of its powerful toolset, making it suitable for those who want to upgrade their skills or work in-depth.

• Avoid using Microsoft Paint because of its simple interface, lack of features, and difficulty in working with large canvases.

2. Open the scanned sketch file in the software.

• Launch the program and select the "Open file" option.

• Locate the PNG or JPEG file you previously saved and load it into your workspace.

• Check the size and resolution, and adjust them if necessary in preparation for the outlining and coloring steps.

3. Basic setup before you start drawing

• Create a new layer to draw linearts instead of drawing directly onto the sketch.

• Adjust the brightness and contrast of the sketch layer for better visibility and easier line work.

• Save the file in its original format (such as PSD or XCF) so you can continue editing without losing data.

Step 4: Sketch directly in digital drawing software.

1. Connect the drawing tablet to the computer.

• Use the correct cable that came with the drawing tablet to ensure a stable connection.

• Install the drivers according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the pen and drawing tablet function correctly.

• Restart your computer if the software prompts you to do so to complete the installation.

2. Open the drawing software and create a new file.

• Choose the program you want to use, such as GIMP, Photoshop, Krita, or Procreate (if using an iPad).

• Create a new file with the appropriate size and resolution (usually 2000 px or higher for a clear image).

• Set the brush to a thin, light sketching style to create a feel similar to drawing with a pencil.

3. Start sketching directly on the canvas.

• Draw the overall outline first: composition, main shape, posture, and general feeling of the character or object.

• There's no need to add more fine details yet, as you'll be making many adjustments later in the line art and coloring process.

• Use multiple layers if needed to make it easier to edit, move, or change the layout.

4. Adjust the pen sensitivity for a more natural drawing experience.

• Adjust the pressure sensitivity for smoother and more natural strokes.

• Try out a few different brushes to find the one that feels most comfortable before moving on to proper line drawing.

Tip 2: How to sketch and color digital paintings

Step 1: Create layers for easier editing.

1. Add a background layer.

• Press the "Create New Layer" button to add an empty layer.

• Use the Fill tool to cover this layer with white.

• Drag this layer to the bottom to create a background for the entire digital drawing.

2. Create separate layers for each important part.

• Each area, such as the face, hair, clothing, and background, should have its own layer.

• Place this layer above the sketch layer for easier drawing and editing.

• Don't forget to give each layer clear names (e.g., Face, Hair, Clothes, Background) to work faster and avoid confusion later.

3. Why do you need multiple layers when creating digital art?

• Multiple layers allow you to add detail without ruining the overall picture.

• You can delete, color correct, change the line style, or move individual parts without affecting other parts.

• This is an important technique that helps beginners learn to create digital art, enabling them to master drawing in a flexible and safe way.

Step 2: Outline the drawing.

1. Use a small brush to create clear lines.

• On each layer you've created (such as face, hair, clothes, etc.), select the Brush tool and adjust the stroke size to about 2–4 px so that the lines are sharp and easy to control.

• Recreate the entire image based on the initial sketch, trying to create a smoother and cleaner line compared to the sketch.

2. Correct proportions and anatomical errors if necessary.

• This is the best time to correct any inconsistencies in the sketch.

• You can zoom in, zoom out, or adjust individual details on each layer without affecting other parts.

3. Hide or delete the sketch layer after completion.

• Once you've finished outlining the entire character or composition, hide or delete the sketch layer.

• This helps you avoid being distracted by the old sketch and makes it easier to move on to the coloring stage.

• A clean outline is a crucial foundation for accurate coloring and shading in digital art.

Step 3: Apply basic colors to the drawing.

1. Prepare separate coloring layers for each section.

• Create a layer below the outline to fill with color, avoiding drawing directly on the outline.

• Each area, such as skin, hair, clothing, and accessories, should have its own layer for easier editing.

2. Apply a flat color to each area.

• Use a brush of the appropriate size for each area, large or small.

• Use a single color for each area: skin one color, hair another, and each item a separate color.

• Just apply a flat color first; no need to add highlights or effects yet.

3. Keeps colors clear and easy to edit.

• Choose colors that are close to the initial idea to make color coordination easier in the next step.

• If you make a mistake while coloring, you can erase or correct it on a separate layer without affecting the outline.

4. Why is this step necessary before shading?

• The basic color palettes help you determine the overall color scheme.

• When there is a clear, flat color palette, adding detail and shading in digital art becomes faster and more accurate.

Tip 3: Create beautiful and professional digital art.

Step 1: Add details to the drawing

1. Create additional layers to make it easier to edit each part.

• If you want better control, add more layers for each small detail.

• Separate layers allow you to edit a part of the picture without affecting the overall image.

• This is a common practice in digital art to keep drawings clean and easy to manage.

2. Add important minor details.

• Enhance the eyes: add highlights, defined lashes, irises, or color gradients.

• Create pleats, pockets, or fabric details on clothing to make the character more lifelike.

• Add texture or emphasis to the background to make the painting more harmonious and give it depth.

3. Flexibility depending on your skills and style.

• If you're already familiar with the software, you can go into more detail at this step.

• Otherwise, you can quickly skip ahead and move straight to the shading step.

• Each digital artist has their own unique approach, so choose the process that works best for you.

4. When should you stop at the basic level of detail?

• Once the overall picture is clear and ready, we can move on to the shading step.

• Once the main elements are complete and you don't need to add complex textures.

Step 2: Add shading to the drawing.

1. Select the base color using the Eyedropper tool.

• Use the Eyedropper to pick up the correct flat color in the area you want to shade, such as skin, hair, or clothing.

• This is an important step to ensure the colors of the shades are harmonious and not mismatched.

2. Create a darker shade for shading.

• Open the Color Picker and drag the selected color to a darker shade.

• Avoid choosing overly dark colors right from the start to allow for softer and more natural shading.

3. Use a brush to shade each area.

• Use a soft or semi-soft brush depending on the style you want.

• Shade in the direction of the intended light, keeping your hand light to create a smooth color transition.

• Repeat this process for all areas in the painting: skin, hair, clothing, objects, and background.

4. Increase depth with different layers of shadow.

• If you want more pronounced shading, create a new layer and apply the shade in varying degrees.

• Having multiple layers makes it easier to edit without damaging the previously drawn parts.

• This is a crucial technique when learning how to create natural-looking digital art with depth.

5. Perform an overall check before moving on to the highlighting step.

• Once the entire image has been evenly shaded, toggle the layers on and off to see the effect and adjust if necessary.

• Good lighting will make it easier to add highlights in the next step.

Step 3: Merge layers and save the complete file.

1. Save a copy before merging layers.

• Before merging all layers, save a copy in its original format such as PSD, XCF, or Procreate.

• The original version allows you to go back and edit at any time without losing important layers.

2. Merge all layers into a single layer.

• Since PNG and JPEG formats don't support multiple layers, you need to merge all layers before exporting the file.

• Use the Merge or Flatten command depending on the software you are using.

• After merging, double-check to ensure no parts are misaligned or distorted.

3. Export the file in a common format.

• Save the final version as a PNG to maintain good quality or a JPEG if you want a smaller file size.

• Use clear file names for easier management, especially if you have multiple versions of the drawing.

4. When should you keep the original, unmerged layered image?

• When you want to continue editing in the future.

• When you want to change the color, background, or adjust the shading without having to redraw from scratch.

Step 4: Export the completed file

1. Save the drawing in a common format.

• Go to the File menu and select Save As to export the file.

• Choose PNG format if you want to maintain good image quality, or JPEG if you need a smaller file size.

• This is the final step before you can share or upload your digital art.

2. Keep the original file for later editing.

• If you want to change any details in the future, reopen the original file such as PSD, XCF, or the project file depending on the software you are using.

• The original file gives you full access to the layers and allows for flexible editing without having to redraw.

3. Organize your files for easier management.

• Give each version a clear name, such as "sketch", "outline", "final_color", "final_export".

• Store them in the same folder for easy retrieval and to ensure you don't confuse the original and the exported version.

Tips for practicing and improving your Digital Art skills.

1. Observe and learn from other digital artists.

• Observe their painting techniques, workflow, and how they handle color and light.

• You can learn many new techniques simply by observing their drawing process.

• Websites like DeviantArt and ArtFixed offer detailed tutorials on eyes, hair, clothing, and basic digital art skills.

2. Practice regularly to improve your skills.

• Digital art encompasses hundreds of different styles and techniques.

• Try different brushes, effects, and techniques to find the style that suits you best.

• Regular practice helps you become familiar with the software and tools, and increases your drawing speed.

3. Use reference images when you're just starting out.

• Reference images will help you understand the correct proportions, lighting, and composition of the character.

• If you want to post a product online, please give credit to the artist or the source of the image, showing respect for the original author.

• This is a fast and safe way for beginners to learn digital art.

4. Try out good quality free software.

• Krita is one of the most powerful free programs, with a user-friendly interface and a diverse set of tools.

• Many people consider Krita easier to use than Photoshop for beginners in digital art.

5. Always back up your files regularly to avoid data loss.

• Make it a habit to save your work regularly while you're drawing.

• Software programs can freeze or crash unexpectedly, so saving your work regularly will help you avoid losing hours of work.

• Save both the original and the exported version so you can easily go back and edit it when needed.

References

1. https://www.digitalartsonline.co.uk/tutorials/photoshop/digital-colouring-techniques-for-pencil-art/#2
2. http://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/introduction-to-digital-art--psd-13528
3. http://digitalarttutorials.com/portfolio-view/beginning-inking/
4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HQ7yunbaW8

Translated by Leigh Kennedy Ly .