If you’ve been looking for a way to take your lettering to the next level, or just try something new with your digital art, then you’re in luck! Graffiti art can be done in Procreate and is a popular art style due to its fusion of creativity, individualism, and urban aesthetic. Every piece of art is unique, but Graffiti has a way of grabbing attention due to the bold colors and impactful style.
In this video, I’ll show you some tips and tricks to create your own Graffiti letters in Procreate - from how to find fonts (or create your own letterforms) to how to get the right textures and colors that will make your designs stand out.
You can find the full tutorial in the video, but here are the main steps:
Choose a subject:
Your artwork should have a main subject/focal point [either an object or letter(s)]
Choose a font (or draw your own) - skip if you’re doing an object & just draw it
Dafont.com (make sure it’s free to use)
Install (here's my video on how to install fonts on your iPad)
Add your letter/word
Modify your text
Reduce opacity on the text layer
New layer above
Trace the font & modify as desired (try the Transform tool with Warp and/or the Adjustments > Liquify tool)
Add drips/splatters, etc.
When done, combine any inking layers & hide/delete text sketch layer
Add the Colors
Color Drop the main color into text/object
Add a new layer above & make it a Clipping Mask
Add color to top & bottom
Adjustments > Gaussian blur ( to make a nice gradient)
Optional: Add another new layer above (Clipping Mask) for texture
Use Airbrushes from Procreate or other brushes - I have some Halftones I use- (multiply blend mode) to add texture
Add Details
Shadows
New layer at top (clipping mask, multiply blend mode) & choose a dark version of main color or a medium gray)
Draw in Shadows
Adjust opacity in layers panel
Highlights
New layer at top
Draw in Highlights with White (lines, bubbles, cross-hatching, etc.) - should be opposite shadows
Optional: Background
New layer behind text design
Add gradients, halftones, spraypaint, drips, splashes, etc. in complementary/coordinating colors to your design to create a dynamic look (not sure what colors to use? Here's my resource you can check out!)
Optional: Add a digital wall
New layer at the bottom
Add > Add photo/file
Adjust as needed
Export your Design
Sharing your design on social/email
Wrench (actions menu) > Share
JPG or PNG