How do you invert a selection in Procreate 5?

December 22, 2025 · caitlin

Inverting a selection in Procreate 5 is a straightforward process that allows you to quickly flip your selected area to work on the rest of your canvas. This feature is particularly useful for artists looking to apply effects, colors, or edits to everything outside a specific selection.

How to Invert a Selection in Procreate 5

To invert a selection in Procreate 5, follow these simple steps:

  1. Make a Selection: Use any of the selection tools (Automatic, Freehand, Rectangle, or Ellipse) to select the desired area on your canvas.
  2. Invert the Selection: Tap on the "Invert" button located at the bottom of the screen in the selection toolbar. This action will reverse the selected area, allowing you to work on the rest of the canvas.

By following these steps, you can efficiently invert selections and enhance your creative workflow in Procreate 5.

Why Invert a Selection in Procreate?

Inverting a selection can be incredibly beneficial for various artistic tasks. Here are some scenarios where this feature can be particularly useful:

  • Applying Effects: If you want to apply an effect, such as a blur or a color change, to everything except a specific area, inverting the selection is essential.
  • Detail Work: When focusing on intricate details in one part of your artwork, inverting the selection can help protect the rest of the canvas from unintended changes.
  • Layer Management: Inverting selections can aid in managing complex layers by isolating specific areas for editing while keeping the rest intact.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Selection Tools

What Are the Different Selection Tools in Procreate?

Procreate offers a variety of selection tools to cater to different artistic needs:

  • Automatic: Selects areas based on color similarity.
  • Freehand: Allows for drawing a custom selection shape.
  • Rectangle: Creates a rectangular selection area.
  • Ellipse: Forms an elliptical selection.

How to Use Each Selection Tool?

  • Automatic Tool: Tap and hold on the desired area. Adjust the threshold by sliding your finger left or right.
  • Freehand Tool: Draw a custom shape around the area you want to select.
  • Rectangle Tool: Tap and drag to form a rectangular selection.
  • Ellipse Tool: Tap and drag to create an elliptical shape.

Practical Examples of Using Inverted Selections

Example 1: Creating a Spotlight Effect

  1. Select the Area: Use the Ellipse tool to select the area you want to highlight.
  2. Invert the Selection: Tap "Invert" to select everything outside the ellipse.
  3. Apply Effects: Use the Gaussian Blur or adjust brightness to create a spotlight effect on the selected area.

Example 2: Protecting Details

  1. Select the Detailed Area: Use the Freehand tool to outline intricate details.
  2. Invert the Selection: Invert to protect the detailed area.
  3. Edit Freely: Make broad changes to the rest of the canvas without affecting the detailed section.

People Also Ask

How Do I Deselect in Procreate 5?

To deselect in Procreate 5, simply tap on the "Select" tool again or use a two-finger tap gesture on the canvas. This action will remove any active selections.

Can You Edit Inverted Selections?

Yes, once you have inverted a selection, any edits or effects you apply will affect the newly selected area, allowing you to work creatively on the rest of the canvas.

What Is the Best Use of the Freehand Selection Tool?

The Freehand selection tool is ideal for selecting irregular shapes or intricate details that other selection tools might not handle well. It provides flexibility and precision in creating custom selection shapes.

How to Use Multiple Selection Tools Together?

You can combine different selection tools for more complex selections. For example, start with a Rectangle selection, then switch to the Freehand tool to add or subtract areas, providing more control over your selection.

Conclusion

Inverting selections in Procreate 5 is a powerful feature that enhances your control over the editing process. Whether you’re applying effects, managing layers, or focusing on details, understanding how to effectively use and invert selections can significantly improve your digital artwork. For more tips on digital art, consider exploring related topics like layer management and advanced brush techniques.

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