Retro Character Drawing: A Digital Journey from iPad to Photoshop

Are you a digital artist looking to add some retro flair to your designs? Look no further than this guide to creating character drawings with a touch of nostalgia.

Getting started

To begin, we recommend starting on an iPad using digital drawing software such as Procreate. This will allow for easy editing and layering while still giving the appearance of a hand-drawn piece. Begin by sketching out the basic outline of your character in black and white.

Adding color

Next, choose a warm retro color palette to bring your character to life. Think pinks, oranges, and blues reminiscent of 80s and 90s design. Fill in your character with these colors using a brush tool in your digital software.

Outputs and printing

Once your character is complete, it's time to consider how you want to use it. Will it be printed as a poster or t-shirt design? Consider the output resolution and file format needed for each application.

Visual and graphic design

When designing a retro character, consider adding elements such as halftone patterns or bold typography to give it a classic feel. This will tie your character into the larger aesthetic of retro design.

Taking it further

For those looking to take their designs even further, consider bringing your character into Adobe Photoshop for additional editing and effects. This will allow for greater control over your design and the freedom to experiment with different styles and techniques.

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