How to Copy and Paste in Procreate: 4 Ways

There are various ways you can learn how to copy and paste in Procreate. The method you choose to use will depend on your design process. In this Procreate tutorial, you will learn 4 very useful ways you can copy and paste, from single layers to an entire design. Read on to find out how you can improve your creative process and design workflow.

For this tutorial example, we will be using an Easter Bunny Bundle that’s sure to put a hop into your step.

The tutorial does require the Procreate app and we will be using V5.3.1.

Copy & Paste in Procreate is a great way to create your own stickers. If you want to add other design options to your digital library, you’ll love the selection of Procreate Stickers available on Design Bundles. So, let’s jump right in and learn some tips and tricks.

Method 1 - Copy and Paste using the Layers Panel

Open your file or add an image by going to the Actions panel or wrench icon and tapping on Insert a file. Next, go to the Layers panel on the top right corner of the screen. Double-tap on the layer with your design to bring up the side menu, then tap on Copy.

To paste the copied layer, you need to tap on the Actions panel, and then tap on Paste. It may not look like anything has happened, but the copy has been placed directly over the original. You only need to move it to the side.

Method 2 - Use Procreate Gestures to Copy and Paste

With Procreate gestures, you use your fingers to activate actions. Once you get the hang of the gestures, they can help speed up your workflow.

Did you know that we have a fantastic tutorial on how to use gestures in Procreate with visual guides? This is definitely a tutorial you will want to favorite so you can refer back to it whenever needed.

The layer you want to copy needs to be selected first under the Layers panel. With your three middle fingers, swipe down on the screen to open the Copy & Paste options.

Tap on Copy, then swipe down again and tap on Paste. A quick and alternative option is to duplicate the layer. Tap the layer to select it, then, swipe left. You will see the option to duplicate the layer.

This is just one way you can duplicate a layer. Find out more with our tutorial on how to duplicate 3 ways in Procreate.

Method 3 - Copy and Paste to a New Canvas

You can copy and paste your entire canvas design or selected layers to a new canvas. Let’s begin by first copying a layer.

As we did in Method 1, double-tap the selected layer and then tap on Copy. Next, tap on Gallery at the top left corner of your screen.

In the Gallery, on the top right-hand corner, tap on the “+” icon to open the canvas menu. Now, tap on the Clipboard size near the top.

Your selected layer will be copied to the new canvas. We also have a very helpful guide on how to copy over multiple layers in Procreate for you to check out.

But what if you want to copy the entire design to a new canvas? This will depend on what you intend to do with the copy. If you want to edit the layers after copying, follow the tutorial mentioned above for copying over multiple layers.

If you no longer want to edit the layers, then we will flatten them as one layer. You don’t need to select your layers first. Instead, go to the Actions panel and tap on Copy Canvas.

Next, tap on Gallery at the top left corner and follow the same process as before. Tap on the “+” icon, select Clipboard and your entire design will be pasted onto a new canvas. Take note that under the Layers panel, your design will now be one flattened layer.

Method 4 - Use the Selection Tool to Copy and Paste

This method is great for designs that have already been flattened. To do this we are going to use the Selection tool or the wavy “S” icon.

Tap on the Selection tool, then tap on the Freehand option at the bottom of the screen. You will also need to tap on the “+” or Add icon.

Use your finger or Apple Pencil and draw a selection line around the area you want to copy. Next, tap on the option Copy & Paste.

Remember, the copied layer will be placed directly over the original. If you check under the Layers panel, you will see the copy is on its own layer.

You can now reposition and resize it with the Move Tool.

By using these methods, you can easily make seamless patterns or planner stickers in Procreate. Accidentally saved your design as a flattened image? Don’t worry, you can use the selection tool to save yourself tons of frustration.

Once you know how to copy and paste in Procreate, your design process will be that much faster. There is nothing stopping your creative design!