How to download and install Procreate brushes, canvases and swatches

If you need a little help importing the files included with your purchase, you’ll find step-by-step instructions below to guide you through the process.

This includes how to import Procreate files such as brushes, swatches, and pre-made canvases. I’ve also included instructions for both iPad and computer downloads, so you can follow whichever method works best for you.

If you run into any issues along the way, be sure to check the helpful troubleshooting tips here.

Downloading to your iPad

Step 1: Download your purchase

Make sure you’re logged into your account, then head to the Downloads tab and click the button for the item you’d like to download. The download should begin automatically.

If a Dropbox page opens instead, look for either:

• A Download button (usually at the top or bottom of the page), or
• A three-dot menu where you’ll find the download option

If prompted to choose a location, select the Files App to save your download.

Step 2: Unzip the file

Once your file has downloaded, open the Files App and locate the .zip file, usually in your Downloads folder.

To unzip the file, simply tap it once. This will automatically extract the contents.

You’ll now see folders containing your Procreate files (such as .procreate, .brushset, and .swatches).

Step 3: Import into Procreate

The easiest way to import your files is to simply tap on them. This should automatically open Procreate and place the files in the correct location:

• .procreate files (canvases) will appear at the top of your Gallery
• .brushset files will import into the most recent Brush Library you had open
• .swatches files will appear at the bottom of your colour Palettes panel

If the files don’t import automatically, you can try the alternative import method described at the bottom.

Downloading to your computer

Step 1: Unzip the file

Once the file has downloaded, double-click the .zip file to unzip it. Most computers have a built-in tool that will extract the files automatically.

If this doesn’t happen, please refer to this helpful troubleshooting article.

Step 2: Transfer to your iPad

Option 1: AirDrop (Mac users)

Right-click (or Control-click) the file, then select:

Share > AirDrop, and send it to your iPad.

From here, one of the following will happen:

• The file may import directly into Procreate, or
• A window may appear where you can choose “Open in Procreate”, or
• The file may open in your Files app, where you can simply tap it to import

Option 2: Cloud storage (Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud)

Upload the unzipped files from your computer to your preferred cloud service.

On your iPad:

• Open the cloud app
• Download the files to your Files app
• Tap each file to import it into Procreate

As before, the files will automatically be placed in the correct location:

• .procreate files → top of your Gallery
• .brushset files → most recent Brush Library
• .swatches files → bottom of your Palettes panel

Alternative import method

If your files don’t import automatically, you can use the following method:

For pre-made canvases (.procreate files)

• Open Procreate
• In the Gallery view, tap Import (top right)
• Navigate to where your files are stored in the Files app
• Locate and tap the .procreate file
• The canvas will automatically appear in your Gallery

For brushes (.brushset files)

• Open any document in Procreate
• Tap the Brush icon to open the Brush Library
• Tap the + icon (top right)
• Select Import from Files
• Locate your .brushset file in the Files app
• Tap the file to import it into your current Brush Library

For colour palettes (.swatches files)

• Open any document in Procreate
• Tap the Colour panel, then go to the Palettes tab
• Tap the + icon (top right)
• Select New from file
• Locate your .swatches file in the Files app
• Tap the file to import it, your new palette will appear at the top of the list

If something still doesn’t seem right, don’t worry, have a look at the troubleshooting tips which will get you sorted in no time 🌸 And of course, feel free to reach out to me anytime should you need further assistance.