how to resize in procreate without losing quality

Everly

3 min read

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14-01-2025

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Procreate is a powerful tool for digital art, but resizing canvases can be tricky. Resizing incorrectly can lead to blurry, pixelated images, ruining your hard work. This guide will show you how to resize your Procreate artwork without sacrificing quality. We'll explore different methods and best practices to ensure your images remain crisp and clear at any size.

Understanding Resolution and Pixel Dimensions

Before we dive into resizing techniques, let's clarify some key terms. Resolution refers to the density of pixels in your image (measured in pixels per inch or PPI). Pixel dimensions represent the total number of pixels in your image (width x height). High resolution and large pixel dimensions generally mean a sharper image. Lower resolution and smaller dimensions result in lower quality, particularly when scaling up.

Method 1: Smart Resize for Optimal Results

Procreate's built-in Smart Resize feature is your best bet for quality resizing. It uses advanced algorithms to intelligently upscale or downscale your artwork, minimizing quality loss.

Steps:

1. Open your canvas: Launch Procreate and open the artwork you want to resize.
2. Access Canvas Size: Tap the wrench icon (Actions) in the top right corner. Select "Canvas Size."
3. Choose Smart Resize: You'll see the option to select "Smart Resize." Make sure this is selected!
4. Input New Dimensions: Enter your desired width and height. You can choose to maintain the aspect ratio (keeping the proportions the same) or change it. Procreate will automatically adjust the other dimension based on your choice.
5. Resize: Tap "Done." Procreate will then resize your canvas using its intelligent algorithm.

Method 2: Exporting at High Resolution

If you need to resize for a specific purpose (like printing or web use), consider exporting your artwork at a higher resolution before scaling it down in another program like Photoshop or GIMP.

Steps:

1. Export: In Procreate, tap the Share icon (looks like a square with an upward arrow) to export your canvas.
2. Choose a High-Resolution Format: Choose a lossless format such as PNG or TIFF. These formats preserve all the pixel information.
3. Resize in Another Application: Open the exported file in a program like Photoshop or GIMP. Use the image resizing tools within that application for further scaling. These programs offer advanced resizing techniques, like bicubic interpolation which maintains a higher level of quality than simple scaling.

Method 3: Working at the Right Size From the Start

The best way to avoid resizing issues is to start with the correct canvas size. Consider the intended use of your artwork.

• Web Use: Smaller dimensions (e.g., 1000px wide) are usually sufficient.
• Print Use: Higher resolutions (e.g., 300 PPI or more) are essential for crisp, clear prints. Calculate the dimensions needed based on your desired print size.

Procreate allows you to set your canvas size before starting a new artwork. Choose carefully to avoid unnecessary resizing later on.

Tips for Maintaining Quality

• Use Smart Resize: Always prioritize Procreate's Smart Resize feature for the best results.
• Vector vs. Raster: If possible, create your artwork using vector graphics (like in Adobe Illustrator). Vector graphics are resolution-independent, meaning they can be resized without losing quality. Procreate primarily works with raster graphics, but understanding the difference can help you manage image size more efficiently.
• Avoid Repeated Resizing: Each time you resize your image, you risk some quality loss. Plan your canvas size carefully to minimize resizing.
• Experiment: Experiment with different resizing methods and compare the results. This will help you determine the best approach for your specific artwork and needs.

Conclusion: Preserve Your Masterpiece

By following these methods and tips, you can confidently resize your Procreate artwork without compromising quality. Remember that starting at the right size is ideal, but Procreate's Smart Resize tool offers a powerful solution when scaling is necessary. Your digital creations deserve to look their best, no matter their size!