What are layers in Procreate?
A layer is a transparent sheet you draw on. Stack several and they combine into one image, but each stays editable on its own. That means you can fix the line art without touching the color, or hide the sketch when you're done — no redrawing.
Open the Layers panel with the two-squares icon in the top-right corner of the canvas.
The core moves you'll use daily
- Add a layer: tap the + in the Layers panel.
- Reorder: tap and hold a layer, then drag it up or down.
- Rename: tap the layer → Rename (e.g. "Sketch", "Lines", "Color").
- Group: swipe right on several layers, then tap Group.
- Duplicate / Delete: swipe left on a layer for both options.
Opacity and locking
Tap a layer and use the opacity slider to make it more transparent — perfect for fading a sketch under your line art. Lock a finished layer (swipe left → Lock) so you don't draw on it by accident.
Blend modes (the beginner versions)
Tap the small N on a layer to change how it blends with the layers below:
- Multiply — great for shadows; it darkens what's underneath.
- Add / Screen — great for glow and highlights; it lightens.
You don't need the rest yet. Multiply for shade, Screen for light will carry you a long way.
A simple layer setup for beginners
A reliable order, bottom to top:
- Background color.
- Color / paint.
- Line art.
- Sketch (low opacity, hidden at the end).
- Shadows / highlights on Multiply / Screen.
Keep your loose sketch on its own layer and draw it with a pencil-style brush — if you're still building a starter set, see our guide to Procreate brushes for beginners, or browse free brushsets to fill each layer.
One habit that saves hours
Name your layers as you go. "Layer 7" tells you nothing three days later; "hair shadows" tells you exactly where to work. Future-you will be grateful.
Just getting started? See our beginner's guide to drawing on iPad.