How to create a gradient in Procreate

A color gradient is a seamless transition from one color to another. It is also an effect that you can use in your artwork to add depth, texture, or just a fun detail. In this tutorial, I will go over a couple of different ways of how to make a gradient in Procreate.

Gaussian Blur

One way to create a gradient in Procreate is to use the Gaussian blur tool. Gaussian blur smoothes out the active layer to give the image a softer and out-of-focus look. It can be applied to the whole layer or just a part of it. You can find the Gaussian blur tool under “Adjustment.”

Linear Gradient in Procreate

1. Create a new canvas and fill it with colors you want to blend. For example, I’ll be making a gradient that goes from pink to purple. So, I’ve created four color lines.
2. Now, to activate Gaussian blur, go to Adjustment > Gaussian Blur. You can select between Layer and Pencil. Layer would apply the effect to the whole layer, and Apple Pencil only to the part where you draw with your Apple Pencil. I’d go with Layer.
3. Then drag your finger or Apple Pencil across the screen from left to right to change the amount of Gaussian Blur.

Radial Gradient in Procreate

1. Create a new canvas and fill it with the color you want to be the outer part of the gradient.
2. Then draw a circle and fill it with a different color – I would go with a lighter color than the outer one.
3. Now, activate Gaussian Blur by going to Adjustments > Gaussian Blur. Just like for the linear gradient, you can choose between the Layer and Apple Pencil option, go with Layer.
4. Then drag your finger or Apple Pencil across the screen from left to right to change the amount of Gaussian Blur.

Soft Brush

Another way to create a gradient in Procreate is to use a soft brush. This is not my favorite method because it is not as precise as Gaussian blur, but sometimes this might work better if you need a handmade effect.

1. Pick a color and fill the layer with that color. Then pick a different color, select Soft Brush from the Airbrushing folder, and make the brush large in size.
2. Then, start drawing with your pen off the canvas and slowly and lightly draw across the canvas to create the gradient. You may add as many colors as you want.

Conclusion

Gradients are so fun and a great way to add a nice detail to your artwork. While Procreate gets criticized for not having a dedicated gradient tool, creating gradients in Procreate is so easy. I hope you like the tutorial and had fun creating gradients with me.