How To Choose The Best Procreate Book For Illustration?

Choosing the best Procreate book isn't just about skill level—it’s about what you want to achieve. Are you into character design, landscapes, or abstract art? Books like 'Procreate Dreams' focus on animation, while 'The Artist’s Guide to Procreate' covers a bit of everything. I always prioritize books with high-quality visuals and clear instructions. A book full of screenshots or QR codes linking to video tutorials is a huge plus.

Another thing to consider is the teaching style. Some books throw too much theory at you, while others, like 'Procreate Pocket Guide,' get straight to the point with exercises. I’ve wasted money on books that were basically glorified brochures, so now I stick to authors with a proven track record. If you’re serious about improving, look for books that include practice files or downloadable brushes. These extras make a big difference.

Don’t overlook community recommendations either. Reddit’s digital art forums or Discord groups often have threads comparing books. People there will tell you honestly if a book’s worth it or just rehashed YouTube tutorials. And if you’re tight on budget, check your local library—many have digital copies you can borrow before committing.

I know how overwhelming it can be to pick the right Procreate book. The key is to match the book to your skill level. If you're a beginner, look for something like 'Procreate for Beginners' that breaks down the basics—layers, brushes, and simple shading techniques. Intermediate artists might prefer 'Digital Painting in Procreate' which dives into advanced brush settings and color theory. Always check the author's background; someone like Art with Flo has great tutorials online, so their books are usually solid. Reviews matter too—scan Amazon or Goodreads to see if others found it helpful. Lastly, flip through a sample if possible. Some books look flashy but lack practical step-by-step guides.

I think the best Procreate books are the ones that feel like a mentor guiding you. I adore 'Beginner’s Guide to Digital Painting in Procreate' because it walks you through real projects, not just random tips. The step-by-step breakdowns helped me understand how to blend colors and use clipping masks properly. Another favorite is 'Procreate Masterclass,' which is packed with shortcuts and workflow hacks most tutorials skip.

Books that focus on specific styles, like manga or hyper-realism, are also worth considering. 'Drawing Anime in Procreate' taught me how to streamline my line art, while 'Digital Watercolor in Procreate' showed me tricks to mimic traditional mediums. Always look for updated editions—Procreate adds new features frequently, and older books might miss key tools like the warp function or brush studio settings. If a book doesn’t keep up, it’s outdated.