Bringing an image "forward" in Procreate can mean two things: changing its layer order so it appears on top of other elements, or moving it visually on the canvas. This guide covers both possibilities, incorporating insights from the provided reference on moving items on the canvas.
Understanding "Bringing Forward"
In digital art software like Procreate, visual stacking order is determined by layers. Layers at the top of the "Layers" panel appear visually on top of layers below them. Bringing a layer forward typically means moving it up in this stack.
Alternatively, it could mean simply repositioning an image or part of an image on the canvas using the transform tool so it overlaps other elements visually, regardless of layer order. The provided reference describes this second action.
Let's explore both methods.
Method 1: Changing Layer Order (Bringing a Layer Forward)
This is the standard way to make an entire image or element appear on top of others.
Steps:
- Open Layers: Tap the Layers icon (two overlapping squares) in the top right corner.
- Select Layer: Locate the layer containing the image you want to bring forward.
- Drag Layer: Tap and hold the layer thumbnail.
- Reorder: Drag the layer upwards in the list. A blue line will appear indicating where the layer will be placed when you lift your finger.
- Release: Release your finger when the layer is positioned above the layers you want it to appear on top of.
The content on that layer will now be visually in front of all layers below it in the panel.
Method 2: Moving an Image or Selection on the Canvas
This method uses the transform tool to reposition an image or a specific part of it on the canvas. This is useful for overlapping elements within the same layer or adjusting placement relative to other visuals.
According to the provided reference, moving a selection involves these steps:
- Make a Selection (Optional): If you only want to move a part of the image, use a selection tool (like Freehand, Automatic, Rectangle, or Ellipse) to select the area. If you want to move the entire layer content, you don't need to make a selection first.
- Tap the Transform Tool: Tap the arrow icon (Transform tool) in the top left menu bar. If you had an active selection, tapping the Transform tool will automatically select the content within that selection. If no selection was active, it will select the entire layer's content.
- Drag and Drop: Drag and drop your selection or the selected layer content anywhere on your project. You can move it horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. You can also use the bounding box handles to scale, rotate, or distort the content.
Using the Transform tool allows you to visually place the image or selection in front of whatever is currently displayed at its new location on the canvas.
| Method | Purpose | Procreate Tool Used | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change Layer Order | Control visual stacking depth | Layers Panel (Drag/Drop) | Changes which elements appear on top |
| Move on Canvas | Reposition content visually | Transform Tool (Arrow) | Changes location on the canvas |
Both methods can help achieve the effect of "bringing an image forward," depending on whether you mean changing its stacking order or simply moving its position on the canvas.
