How to Develop Your Unique Illustration Style in Procreate
One of the questions I get asked most often as an illustrator is: “How do I find my style?” The truth is, your unique style doesn’t just appear overnight—it evolves over time, through experimentation, observation, and practice. Procreate makes that journey easier because it’s flexible, forgiving, and encourages play. Here’s how I approach developing a style that’s unmistakably my own.
1. Play Around Without Pressure
The first step is simple: draw for fun. Don’t worry about assignments, clients, or perfect lines—just experiment. I often open Procreate and start with random doodles or sketches inspired by whatever’s on my mind. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in the shapes, colours, and textures you naturally gravitate toward. That’s the start of your style.
2. Experiment with Brushes
Procreate’s brush library is massive, and the ability to create your own is a game-changer. I like to test out textures, pencil-like strokes, or quirky inking brushes to see what feels natural to me. Sometimes a single brush will become the cornerstone of my style. Play, tweak, and don’t be afraid to make “happy accidents”—those often lead to the most distinctive marks.
3. Study Other Artists (Without Copying)
It’s totally okay to be inspired by other illustrators—look at their work and notice what draws you in. Is it their use of colour, quirky character designs, or bold lines? Take mental notes and practice similar techniques in your own voice. The goal isn’t to replicate—it’s to learn what resonates with you and inform your own creations.
4. Focus on Colour and Palette
Colour choices are a huge part of style. I often create custom palettes in Procreate for each project, experimenting with combinations that feel “me.” Over time, you’ll notice certain colour schemes or combinations appearing naturally in your work—another signature element of your style.
5. Repeat Themes and Subjects
Pay attention to the subjects, shapes, and motifs you’re drawn to. Do you love drawing animals, whimsical landscapes, or expressive children? Repetition is key—it helps your style feel cohesive across different illustrations. Procreate makes it easy to revisit old sketches, refine them, and integrate recurring themes.
6. Study Your Own Work
Look back at your sketches and finished pieces regularly. What stands out? Which drawings feel most like you? This reflection is vital for refining your style. I like to create a “style diary” in Procreate, a canvas where I collect experiments, colour tests, and mini illustrations that represent my voice.
7. Embrace Imperfections
Your style isn’t about perfection—it’s about recognisable, consistent choices that make your work unique. Maybe your lines are a little wobbly, or your textures are rough—these quirks can become your signature.
8. Give It Time
Developing a unique illustration style doesn’t happen overnight. The more you draw, experiment, and reflect, the more naturally your voice will emerge. Procreate’s flexibility lets you make hundreds of sketches, try endless colour combos, and test new brushes without wasting a single sheet of paper.
And some Thoughts
Your illustration style is a mix of the way you draw, the subjects you love, the colours you pick, and the brushes you favour. Procreate is just a tool—but a powerful one. Use it to explore, experiment, and play.
Over time, your unique style will reveal itself, and the journey will be just as fun as the destination.
Hey, there! I’m Jasmine Berry, a freelance illustrator based in sunny Perth, Western Australia. Most days you’ll find me sketching away on my iPad or surrounded by pencils and cats, chasing new ideas. I like to think of myself as eternally optimistic—always seeing the fun, the colour, and the possibility in every project I take on. Send me a message if you would like to collaborate on a project.