To save on Procreate, you need to understand that "saving" actually means exporting your finished artwork and backing up your working files.
How to save on Procreate: understanding your export options
Procreate is exclusively available on iOS devices; Android users need alternative apps. Procreate Pocket is the iPhone-specific version, distinct from the full iPad Procreate. Device model identification is done in Settings > General > About > Model Name on iPadOS. Procreate is an iPad app, so saving artwork means exporting a copy of your canvas in a format that fits your next step. Each format serves a different purpose: PNG preserves transparency and is best for web graphics; JPEG compresses the image for smaller file sizes but loses transparency; PSD keeps all your layers for editing in other software like Photoshop; PDF is ideal for sharing multi-page documents or print-ready layouts; and TIFF delivers the highest quality for professional printing. Choosing the right format ensures your work looks exactly as intended, whether you are posting online, sending to a client, or sending to a printer.
How to save a single artwork file in Procreate
- Select Share from the menu.
- Choose your desired format from the list (PNG, JPEG, PSD, PDF, or TIFF).
- Select a save location on your iPad or choose a cloud service like iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive.
This process exports a flattened or layered copy of your artwork, depending on the format you pick. The original Procreate file stays on your iPad until you delete it manually.
Exporting Procreate projects for other software
When you need to continue editing in another app, export as PSD to preserve all your layers, blending modes, and opacity settings. For sharing a proof or sending a design to a client who does not need layers, PDF is a reliable choice because it maintains vector-like sharpness and is easy to open on any device. If you are preparing artwork for high-resolution printing, export as TIFF to retain the maximum color depth and detail without compression artifacts. Each format has specific considerations: PSD files can become large if you have many layers, so merging unnecessary layers before exporting helps keep the file manageable; PDF exports work best when your canvas is set to the final print dimensions; and TIFF exports should use the highest quality setting to avoid losing detail in shadows and highlights.
Optimizing file sizes before saving
Large file sizes can slow down sharing and take up storage space. To reduce file size before exporting, merge layers you no longer need to edit individually by pinching two layers together on the Layers panel. Flattening your artwork combines all visible layers into a single background layer, which dramatically shrinks the file. Procreate also offers a Reduce File Size export option that automatically compresses the image without noticeable quality loss for most web uses. These steps help you save storage and speed up transfers without sacrificing the look of your art.
Backing up your Procreate files safely
Backing up your Procreate files prevents losing hours of work if your iPad is lost, damaged, or replaced. The safest method is to export your .procreate files (the native format) to a cloud storage service such as iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive. You can also transfer files to a computer or external storage by connecting your iPad and copying the files via the Files app. For extra security, maintain at least two backups in different locations, one cloud and one local. Regular backups ensure that even if your iPad is wiped, you can restore your entire Procreate tools, layers and file management structure exactly as you left it.
Using layer gestures to streamline your workflow
Layer gestures in Procreate speed up common tasks so you spend less time navigating menus and more time creating. Swipe right with three fingers on the canvas to create a new layer. Group layers by tapping the 'Layer' menu and selecting 'Group'. Use a two-finger tap to undo or a three-finger tap to redo. Swiping left or right with three fingers cycles through layers quickly. Customize gestures and shortcuts by assigning specific functions in Procreate's settings. Use the Quick Menu (tap and hold) to access frequently used tools without navigating menus. Assistive Touch can create custom virtual buttons to automate repetitive tasks. Pinch two layers together on the Layers panel to merge those layers and any layers between them. Tap a layer to make it the Primary layer (it turns bright blue), then swipe right on another layer to add it as a Secondary layer. Two-finger tap a layer to bring up opacity controls, then drag left or right on the canvas to change layer transparency. Tap and hold with two fingers on a layer to select that layer’s contents instantly. To activate Layer Select, go to Actions > Prefs > Gesture Controls > Layer Select. Apple Pencil Pro users can assign Layer Select to the squeeze function in Gesture controls. These gestures reduce repetitive tapping and keep your creative flow uninterrupted.
Frequently Asked Questions about saving in Procreate
Can I save in Procreate?
Yes, Procreate saves your work automatically while you draw, but you must manually export a copy to keep a permanent file outside the app. The app stores your canvas in its own .procreate format until you choose to export or delete it.
How do I save artwork?
Tap the wrench icon, select Share, pick a format, rename the file if you want, and choose a save location on your iPad or a cloud service. This creates an exported copy that you can open on other devices or share.
Can I export to other software?
Yes, export as PSD to keep layers for editing in Photoshop or Affinity, as PDF for universal sharing, or as TIFF for high-quality printing. Each format preserves different aspects of your artwork, so pick the one that matches your next step.
How do I optimize file sizes?
Merge layers you no longer need, flatten the artwork, choose a lower DPI for screen use, and use the Reduce File Size export option. These steps shrink the file without ruining the visual quality for most purposes.
How do I back up files?
Export your .procreate files to iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive, or transfer them to a computer or external storage via the Files app. Keep at least two backups in different places to protect against data loss.
