Procreate Size for Poster: A Comprehensive Comparison

Creating a poster using Procreate can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, you may find yourself scratching your head when trying to determine the ideal Procreate size for your poster. In this article, we will provide a thorough comparison of different options and approaches, helping you make the best decision for your project. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Understanding Procreate’s Resolution and Canvas Size

Before diving into the various options for poster sizes, it’s critical to understand two key elements – resolution (DPI) and canvas size (pixels).

Resolution (DPI)

Resolution refers to the number of dots per inch (DPI) in your digital images. A higher DPI means more details, but it also requires more storage space and processing power. For most posters, a DPI of at least 300 is recommended to ensure high-quality prints.

Canvas Size (Pixels)

Canvas size refers to the number of pixels your digital image contains. The larger the canvas size, the more details your poster will have. However, bigger canvas sizes require more storage space and may slow down Procreate’s performance.

Common Poster Sizes

Posters come in various sizes – some are more common than others. It is crucial to consider the size of your poster from the get-go as it will impact your canvas size and resolution requirements.

Small Posters

Small posters typically range from 11 x 17 inches to 18 x 24 inches. These are suitable for bulletin boards, office displays, or residential use. For such poster sizes, we recommend a canvas size and DPI as follows:

11 x 17 inches: 3300 x 5100 pixels @ 300 DPI
18 x 24 inches: 5400 x 7200 pixels @ 300 DPI

Medium Posters

Medium-sized posters, around 24 x 36 inches, are commonly used for advertising, conferences, and events. To create such posters in Procreate, consider the following canvas settings:

24 x 36 inches: 7200 x 10800 pixels @ 300 DPI

Large Posters

Large posters measure about 27 x 40 inches and are often seen in movie theaters, exhibitions, and galleries. You can create large posters using Procreate with the following specifications:

27 x 40 inches: 8100 x 12000 pixels @ 300 DPI

Finding the Optimal Procreate Canvas Setting

Create a custom canvas that matches your poster size for the best results. Here’s how:

1. Determine Your Poster Size in Inches

Decide the approximate size of your poster in inches, considering factors like the display location and overall design.

2. Set the DPI

Input the desired resolution (DPI) based on the image quality you require. We recommend sticking to 300 DPI for most posters.

3. Calculate Canvas Size in Pixels

Multiply the poster size in inches by the DPI to find the canvas size in pixels. For example, a 24 x 36-inch poster with a resolution of 300 DPI would have a canvas size of 7200 x 10800 pixels.

4. Create Custom Canvas in Procreate

Open Procreate and create a new document. Input the calculated canvas size in pixels and set the DPI accordingly. Once your custom canvas is ready, you can start designing your poster!

Maximizing Procreate’s Performance

Larger canvas sizes and higher resolutions can consume more memory and processing power in Procreate. To maintain optimal performance, consider these strategies:

1. Use an iPad with Higher Memory and Processing Power

Opt for iPads with higher RAM and better processors, such as the iPad Pro models, to handle larger canvas sizes and resolutions efficiently.

2. Close Other Apps

Ensure that other apps are closed while using Procreate to free up as much memory as possible.

3. Use Fewer Layers

More layers can slow down Procreate’s performance. Try consolidating layers or using fewer to maintain efficiency.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Procreate size for your poster is crucial for optimal results. By understanding the relationship between resolution, canvas size, and poster dimensions, you can select the best settings for your project. Remember to consider common poster sizes, customize your canvas, and maintain Procreate’s performance for a seamless designing experience. Good luck!

FAQs

1. Can Procreate handle large canvas sizes for posters?

Yes, Procreate can handle large canvas sizes suitable for posters. However, the performance may vary depending on your device’s processing power and memory.

2. What is the recommended DPI for posters?

A resolution of at least 300 DPI is recommended for high-quality poster prints.

3. Can I change the canvas size after having started designing my poster in Procreate?

Yes, you can change the canvas size using Procreate’s “Crop and Resize” feature. Keep in mind that drastic changes in size may affect image quality.

4. Do I need to consider the printing process when choosing the Procreate size for my poster?

It is essential to consider the printing process when determining the ideal Procreate size. Different printers have varying requirements in terms of resolution and image format. Consult with your printer before finalizing the canvas size and resolution.

5. How do I print a poster from Procreate?

First, ensure that your canvas size and resolution are suitable for printing. Then export your artwork as a high-quality JPEG or TIFF file. Send the file to the printer, specifying your desired poster size and any other print preferences.