Drawing Digital: The Complete Guide for Learning to Draw & Paint on Your iPad

by Lisa Bardot

Learn how to draw digitally and get the most use out of your tablet with this book full of helpful tips, creative inspiration, and 12 step-by-step drawing and painting projects.

In Drawing Digital, artist and teacher Lisa Bardot, the expert behind @Bardot Brush, introduces the art of digital drawing. Using your tablet and Procreate, or another favorite drawing app, you can leave behind your pencil and paper and make art anywhere and at any time.

Lisa gets you started with a range of easy-to-follow projects,
  A still life A snake plant Cacti in the desert Flowers A dog A school of fish Self-portraits Characters City scenes And more!
Accompanying each project are complete step-by-step instructions and Lisa Bardot’s signature, vibrant artwork. Also in the book
  Tips for finding creative inspiration Information on tools App basics How to draw and paint lines and shapes Instructions for layering, duplicating, exporting, and more A review that promises to help you draw anything
The author works in Procreate; however, her instructions apply to any digital drawing app, so you can use whatever you have on hand. The projects, tips, and techniques offer the ideal starting point if you’re a beginner to digital drawing, but if you’re an expert, you’re sure to learn plenty from Lisa’s expert advice, as well. Lisa finds great joy in creating, and soon you will too, wherever and whenever you like to draw.

Kick start your creativity and learn to draw on your tablet with Drawing Digital!

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Drawing, Crafts, Adult

502 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 17, 2023

Reviews

[Hayley Gartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I normally don’t tend to go for the art “how to” books since my field of study is in fine arts. But the cover art for this one really stood out to me, so I figured why not give it a go. And I am SO GLAD that I did. This book is definitely one that once released I will be buying a hard copy. There was so many tips and tricks that can easily be translated into traditional art as well as digital drawing. I love how easy the author broke down basic shapes and basic tips that made me want to pick up my tablet and just draw. If anyone out there is also like me and struggles to find inspiration when it comes to starting a new project, or simply refining and honing in your skills, this book is for you. Thank you to NetGalley and Walter Foster Publishing for giving me the opportunity to view this ahead of release!

[Hannah Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had an apple pencil for a few years because I wanted to learn how to draw digitally, but have always felt a little intimidated to start. This book quickly taught me how to use basic shapes and tools to create simple illustrations which helped me get past my analysis paralysis. It includes tutorials that take a few minutes to complete, so it is easy to learn in your spare time. The projects are also fun, which encourages you to keep coming back to learn more. It goes over a lot of the basics, making it accessible for a complete beginner, however if you have experience with design software or traditional drawing, it is easy to skim and read the information most practical for your application. I have always used Adobe products for design, and this book uses ProCreate on iPad; most of the tools are similar, but some have slightly different names, so this was a helpful way to translate that information. I would highly recommend this to anyone trying to get started in digital illustration or looking for some inspiration!

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently purchased an iPad and I have been searching for a handy guide for digital drawing. Lo and behold, Drawing Digital! While most of the directions for using tools revolve around Procreate, I found I was able to follow a lot of the steps in just about any app. I also love the fundamental practice steps for drawing shapes, first use of layers, and how to apply certain effects. This is definitely a book I'll continue to reference in my artistic journey. Thank you to NetGalley and Walter Foster Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a few years, I have been wanting to dive into digital art and learn all the ins and outs of it. For years I haven't due to being intimadated with it. Trying to learn how to draw without quite feeling it, how to learn all the different brushes and figure out all the tiny specifics of it was terrifying! So, when I saw this book I was excited! I eagerly picked it up so I'd hopefully feel more comfortable and having a place to start. This book did exactly that.

While I don't have an iPad or Procreate, I still feel like I have a better understanding of where to start with digital art. The author did such a wonderful job of breaking everything down that I didn't have to question anything (okay a few things but that is on me for needing to see the whole action sometimes). I really appreciated how the brushes used were listed throughout with the continous reminder of where they were.

There were so many tips and tricks that were shared that had me staring at the book for a while because it made so much sense that I couldn't fathom why I had never thought of that before.

Drawing Digitally has so much information in it that I could see it being helpful for beyond beginners. This is a book I have already recommended someone and it might just find itself on my own wishlist so I can go back to reference it as I really start to practice and learn.

If you are interested in learning digital art at all, I highly recommend picking up this one. Even if you don't have access to Procreate.

Thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennyfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a watercolour artist only just now beginning to expand into digital art, so this book is incredibly timely for me.

Digital Drawing by Lisa Bardot is a comprehensive guide to both drawing as a concept, and the techniques and skills unique to the digital world. While the book does specialise in the tools and features of the Procreate app on the iPad, all of these techniques and skills are easily transferrable to other platforms and software (I use Sketchbook on an Android device).

The book opens with a guide to suggested devices and a basic overview of resolution and canvas sizes. We have a refresher course in drawing - as drawing on a device feels a bit different to paper! - before launching into projects and playing with the software properly: the layers, the brushes, the masks and blends, colour theory (traditional and digital) and lighting, and much, much more.

I really like the way this book jumps between traditional art theories and techniques and the digital skills to put the lessons into practice - it's not all layers and presets but an art form of its own that still requires work. This will be a reference book I will come back to again and again as I explore my art.

~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~

[Laura Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I have read about using Procreate on the iPad. I would say I am very proficient in using Procreate but even I learned a few new things from this book! However, it is not just a book about the app. It is also a very useful resource for learning sketching and drawing, as you will learn how to break down complex forms into simple shapes. Drawing animals, flowers and people are just some of the topics covered in depth.

The book also takes you through a wide range of art projects created in Procreate using native brushes, so you do not need to go out and buy Lisa’s brushes to enjoy the book. The section on how to stylise your artwork was very useful, as was the chapter on colour theory. Overall, this is so much more than a Procreate instruction book, although it is a very good one. It is also a drawing instruction manual, teaching you to draw basically anything you might want to draw. I highly recommend this to anyone who has an interest in art; you will surely find something for you here.

With thanks to Netgalley and Walter Foster Publishing for this ARC

[Karrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have an ipad and have no knowledge how to draw (besides fake calligraphy). And my phone is so useful I never use my big Pro like I thought I would, but I really want to learn how to draw comics.

I found this book super useful. I love when Comic Artists tell you what tools they use, because there are SO MANY! (I'm a nerd and it's my favorite thing to read about. Someone should make an anthology just on tools! hah!)

She uses one program and teaches you about Layers. Which The Simpsons would teach you about many years ago. Then teaches you about the different layers. I got the concept, even though I wasn't using my iPad at the time. Which should be hightlighted that this is a good teacher, because I am a totally visual, but mostly hands-on learner.

Plus she gives you info about the other drawing info that she is doing on the Internet. I will definitely be bookmarking to use in the future after I get around to charging my ipad and finding my pencil.

[Steph Roemer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I legitimately squealed in excitement when I saw that Lisa Bardot had authored an all-in-one tutorial book for digital art! I’ve followed her since 2020 and have used her brushes and tutorials for almost all of my digital art learning. Being able to have all of her advice, tips and tricks in one book is GOLD to me! She has such a wonderfully clear way of explaining steps, and she seems to make sure that people from all stages of art experience can follow along. I would 100% recommend this book to any and all people who are wanted to explore digital art, or sharpen their skills.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you SO much to NetGalley and Octopus Books for letting me review this amazing tutorial book in exchange for an honest review 🎨 🩷

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the personal story behind the book. It shows how having a passion for something and chipping away and practicing every day can calm you and refine your skills.
As for the book itself, it is jam packed full of information, tips, tricks and advice. It really blew me away how much you can start with practicing shapes and lines and end up with scenes full of digital art.
Being a newbie to the Apple scene, I used so much of the step by step advice and worked my way up to drawing a few things that I am proud of.
Newbie or advanced artist, you will find so much in the book for you. Definitely one to buy a hard copy of when released.
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to read it all the way through before working on the exercises. This book is phenomenal at breaking down the basics of drawing and Procreate without talking down to the reader. I’ve tried many times to learn to draw. There was always a disconnect for me. Now with this book and my iPad I feel like it might actually happen. Each chapter introduces an art concept that builds on the previous chapter while also teaching the tools in Procreate that build on each other. It’s the first time in my life I feel encouraged to believe I can learn to draw and find my own graphic art style. Once you’ve read this and started working on the exercises you must go check out her amazing custom Procreate brush sets.

[Debbie Gascoyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been using Lisa Bardot's Youtube tutorials for Procreate for the past year or longer. She's very clear and down-to-earth and a very good instructor. But I personally prefer to read instructions rather than watch videos - I can go at my own pace and more easily return to things that I didn't get the first time. So imagine my delight when I saw that she has a book out. The projects repeat material from her videos, but it's so worth it to be able to go back to the beginning and work slowly step by step. I'd recommend this for anyone wanting to get the hang of a drawing app, whether Procreate or another. By the way, a bonus was that it helped me with Photoshop as well, as many of the actions are the same or similar.

[createitlibrarian (Amanda) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changing. I know it sounds dramatic, but not only does this book make art more accessible so do her YouTube videos and other projects.

Procreate is such an amazing tool! No need for AI and you can do all your own original art work. I’ve honestly wanted to illustrate the stories I’ve written so bad, drawing on a traditional bad and redoing a scene a million times to get it right is exacerbating. Procreate not only speeds up the process, the layers allow you not to have to start from scratch every time you make another attempt at your scene. I can’t even say how much I love everything about it. Including being able to animate scenes! Just incredible.

Thank you Lisa Bardot for writing just an accessible book!

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw this book on NetGalley and thought it might help me get more use out of my Apple Pencil and I was correct! The book focuses mainly on the Procreate app, which is great, but I learned a lot of things that will be helpful no matter what software I’m using. There is also a lot of basic art instruction and many fun and super cute drawing exercises. This book would be a great first introduction to digital art and is a great learning tool with some great exercises for any level digital artist.

[Shauna Jared · Rating 5 out of 5]

After I got the digital version of this book, I purchased a paperback as soon as it was available! I found this book very helpful as a beginner to procreate and I definitely wanted to have a physical copy to refer to. The author takes you through all the basics and every step needed to create the exercises in the book. I've been a fan of the author for awhile and have watched multiple YouTube videos and I always wished that I had the same information in book form to refer back to... and now I do! I love this book and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn how to make digital art!

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw this book on NetGalley and thought it might help me get more use out of my Apple Pencil and I was correct! The book focuses mainly on the Procreate app, which is great, but I learned a lot of things that will be helpful no matter what software I’m using. There is also a lot of basic art instruction and many fun and super cute drawing exercises. This book would be a great first introduction to digital art and is a great learning tool with some great exercises for any level digital artist.

[Mike Curran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful how to book on drawing digitally, specifically with Procreate for the iPad. Lisa teaches you all the basics you need if you are beginner - the ins and outs of the Procreate interface and tools, basic drawing fundamentals, color, and a bunch of fun tutorials. This book is a must have reference for anyone wanting to learn how to draw on the iPad and anyone wanting to sharpen their skills!

[Siren Bard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I put this on hold at the library in hopes it would help me get better with procreate, and when I got my hands around it, it did! Thanks to Lisa’s tutorials both in the book and the ones on youtube I was able to get a better grasp of this phenomenal software!
The presented material is light hearted, easy to grasp and fun to read as well as learn, If you are struggling with Procreate in any way get this book. The face tutorials alone are worth it.

[T Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After seeing this book, I'm in awe of the possibilities of drawing apps, and by that I mean all the help you get. This book is extremely educational in the use of such possibilities, and the illustrations are realistic and the layout top notch. I don't know enough to judge the content, but it's very good with what it covers.

[Michelle Lampinen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As she is in her online tutorials, Lisa is an excellent teacher who can break down how to draw anything into easy, manageable steps. I will admit I read this cover to cover and did not do any of the projects, but I still learned a ton just from reading. Can’t wait to crack open my iPad and trying some of her tips!

[Audrey Sauble · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great introduction to Procreate and digital art in general. I’ve been using a different app for years, but always found Procreate intimidating. The explanations and tutorials in this book helped me learn how to use the app comfortably, though.

I did end up running short on time and skimmed the second half of the book, but want to try more of the projects at some point.

[Joanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is the perfect book for beginners who are curious about digital drawing, and hence it suits me perfectly. It starts off with the necessary software and hardware and then moves on to the basics of drawing on ipads.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and educational for the beginner drawing digitally! Broken down into easy steps, this is a great read for anyone interested in learning how to draw on their Ipad.

Thank you Netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Walter Foster, Walter Foster Publishing for the ARC!

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! It breaks down EVERYTHING for the beginner from digital drawing app choices to extremely basic "how to draw using simple shapes" to layers to color theory and so much more. I wish more art books broke it down so well!

[Natassja Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great gook. This is the perfect gift for anyone what’s interested in learning how to use their tablet or iPad to create the best artwork they can.

[Bridgette · Rating 5 out of 5]

*very well-written
*colorful, step-by-step examples provided
*lots of tips and tricks for the experienced as well as for beginners
*highly recommend

[Kerrific Kerr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect for those wanting to learn about creating digital art. Simple to follow and great for any age wanting to learn.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous book! Lots of inspiration, tutorials, projects and tips. I loved it!

[Lucy Kirby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite using Procreate for years now, this book still taught me shortcuts I wasn’t aware of. It also did a good job describing different art styles in a step-by-step format.

[Mary Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

more then you expect

This creative book is not only thorough in covering Procreate but also very fun and educational in teaching and showing how to apply the techniques via fun projects. I think Lisa covered so much more than I expected. Wonderful reference book.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great beginner's guide on how to use ProCreate or another drawing app on your iPad to create beautiful illustrations. It provides step-by-step detailed instructions to get you started on making the most of drawing on your IPad.