To merge layers in Procreate on iPad, use the Merge Down command from the Layer Options menu to combine the active layer with the layer directly below it, or pinch the top and bottom layers together in the Layers panel to merge multiple layers at once. These are the two official methods for how to merge layers in Procreate, and they let you simplify your artwork or reduce file size without leaving the app.
How to merge layers in Procreate: An introduction to the two official methods
Procreate is documented for iPad and iPhone only, there are no official Android steps or supported Android devices for merging layers. The app offers two documented ways to combine layers: Merge Down and the two-finger pinch gesture. Merge Down is best when you need to combine one layer with the layer immediately below it, while the pinch gesture is faster when you want to merge several layers at once. Choosing the right method keeps your Procreate tools, layers and file management efficient as your artwork grows. Swipe right with three fingers on the canvas to bring up a menu with various options. Swipe left with two fingers on the layer you want to merge to select it. Swipe left with three fingers on any layer to select it and then select Flatten from the pop-up menu. Group layers by selecting them and tapping the Group button (folder icon) at the top of the Layers panel. Flatten Image command is accessed via the Actions menu (wrench icon) under the Layers panel.
Merge two layers with merge down
- Open the Layers panel.
- Tap the layer thumbnail to open Layer Options.
- Tap Merge Down.
Merge Down combines the active layer with the layer directly below it. After merging, the two layers become a single, uneditable object, you can no longer edit them separately. This method only affects the immediate layer below; layers above the active layer remain unchanged.
Merge multiple layers with the pinch gesture
- Open the Layers panel.
- Use two fingers to pinch the top and bottom layers you want to merge together.
Every layer between the top and bottom layers you pinch also merges into a single layer. This gesture is the documented way to combine several layers at once without tapping through each layer's options menu.
Troubleshooting layer merges
If layers do not merge as expected, recall the behavior of each method. Merge Down only combines the active layer with the layer directly below it, it does not merge layers further up or down the stack. The pinch gesture merges all layers between the top and bottom ones you pinch, so if you pinch two layers that are not adjacent, every layer in between is included. If you need only specific layers combined, ensure you are pinching the exact top and bottom layers of the group you want to merge. Insufficient iPad storage can cause performance issues when working with multiple layers. Restart your iPad and relaunch Procreate to resolve minor glitches when merging. Export your artwork as a PSD file and merge layers in another software like Adobe Photoshop if problems persist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo a merge in Procreate?
Yes. Tap the Actions button (wrench icon) and select Undo, or use the two-finger swipe gesture to undo the merge operation. The undo option may not be available if you have performed other actions after the merge or if your undo history has been cleared.
What happens to blending modes or opacity when I merge layers?
Merging layers permanently combines their content and attributes. Layers with different blending modes or opacity settings may produce unexpected results after merging. It is a good practice to duplicate your artwork or create a backup before merging to avoid permanent changes.
Can I merge layers with Alpha Lock enabled?
Yes. Alpha Lock is a layer property you enable from Layer Options or by swiping left-to-right with two fingers on a layer in Procreate Pocket.
Is there a limit to how many layers I can merge at once?
You can use the pinch gesture to merge any number of layers between the top and bottom layers you select, limited only by the total layers in your project. Merging multiple layers can increase the complexity and file size of your artwork.
Can I unmerge layers after I have merged them?
No. Once layers are merged, the operation is permanent and you cannot directly unmerge them. You can use Undo immediately after merging or revert to a previous saved version of your artwork if you have backups.
