How to Use CLIP STUDIO PAINT - Digital Art Tutorial for BEGINNERS (step by step)

Introduction

Hello, art enthusiasts! My name is Alysa, and today I'll guide you through the basics of CLIP STUDIO PAINT. This video tutorial covers step-by-step instructions on how to get started with CLIP STUDIO PAINT and begin creating your own pieces of art.

CLIP STUDIO PAINT is excellent software for drawing, painting, making comics and manga, as well as animation. It features a 3D model library of characters and backgrounds, so you can create your own references. Additionally, it has a screen tone library and many useful features.

Having used both Photoshop and Paint Tool S in the past, I find that CLIP STUDIO PAINT merges the efficient drawing capabilities of Paint Tool S with the more advanced post-production and editing tools available in Photoshop.

Getting Familiar with the Interface

When you open CLIP STUDIO PAINT, you'll notice the following layout:

Toolbar (Left): This holds all of our tools.
Tool Details (Next to Toolbar): Displays properties and subtools of your selected tool.
Color Wheel / Color Picker (Bottom): Allows you to select colors.
Canvas (Middle): This is your drawing space.
Resources (Right): Contains screen tones, manga panels, and 3D models.
Navigator (Far Right): A mini overview of your entire drawing.
Layers Section (Bottom): Manages your different layers.

To create a new file, go to File > New. You'll be prompted to fill in information like the type of artwork (illustration, comic, animation), file name, canvas settings such as dimensions and resolution (set to 300 DPI for print).

If you're just drawing for fun or posting online, a lower DPI is acceptable. After configuring the settings, click OK to open your new file.

Navigating and Using Tools

Navigating the canvas is important. Below are shortcut keys:

Zoom In/Out: Ctrl + + or Ctrl + - (or Command for Mac)
Frame Canvas: Ctrl + 0
Panning: Hold the Space bar and click to drag.
Rotate Canvas: Press R.

Next, let's explore some basic drawing tools. The Pen Tool is great for outlines, and it has various sub-tools like markers. You can also modify brush size using the bracket keys ([ ]), or by holding Ctrl + Alt and dragging.

Opacity Controls: Adjust opacity with the slider or input a value directly. For erasing, use the Eraser Tool, which also offers different options like standard, soft, or snap erasers.

Drawing and Layer Management

Once you've created a drawing, remember to save it (Ctrl + S or File > Save). To move items around within your drawing, use the Move Tool (K) or Selection Tools. The Lasso Tool allows for custom shape selections.

The Magic Wand Tool (W) is useful for selecting areas of color, and the Eyedropper Tool allows you to pick colors from anywhere in your project.

To create layers for your work, click the page icon in the Layers section. You can also group your layers for organization. Clipping layers help confine colors to designated areas.

Coloring Your Art

For coloring, first create a new layer beneath your line art and then use tools like the Paint Bucket Tool to fill in your base colors. Adjust the color as needed.

When adding shading, create another layer above the base layer, setting it to Multiply to ensure deeper color application. Play around with different colors and blending modes.

To finalize your work, you might want to add a background. Use the Gradient Tool to create interesting backgrounds, selecting desired colors to create a smooth transition.

Once you finish your artwork, review it for any adjustments needed. Toggling visibility on layers helps to assess your line art and colors effectively.

Conclusion

And there you have it! This tutorial provides a brief but comprehensive guide to getting started with CLIP STUDIO PAINT. If you enjoyed this guide, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more quality art education!

Keyword

CLIP STUDIO PAINT, Digital Art, Drawing, Painting, Comic, Manga, Animation, 3D Model Library, Layers, Tools, Color Picker, Eyedropper Tool, Brush Tool, Pen Tool, Eraser Tool, Save, Select, Magic Wand Tool

FAQ

What is CLIP STUDIO PAINT used for?
CLIP STUDIO PAINT is primarily used for digital art, including drawing, painting, making comics, and animation.

Can I use CLIP STUDIO PAINT for animation?
Yes, CLIP STUDIO PAINT has features that support animation, making it a versatile tool for artists.

What are layers in CLIP STUDIO PAINT?
Layers allow you to work on different elements of your artwork separately, which helps keep your project organized.

How do I save my work in CLIP STUDIO PAINT?
You can save your work using the shortcut Ctrl + S or by clicking on File > Save.

Are there shortcuts for tools in CLIP STUDIO PAINT?
Yes, many tools in CLIP STUDIO PAINT have keyboard shortcuts, making it easier to navigate and use the software efficiently.