So, you want to dive into the world of digital art? Amazing choice! Whether it’s creating stunning illustrations, vibrant animations, or sleek graphic designs, digital art offers endless possibilities. But, if you’re staring at your screen wondering where to even begin, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Every artist starts somewhere.

Let’s break this journey into bite-sized pieces, covering the basic tools you’ll need and some mindset tips to keep you inspired.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

First things first: you don’t need the fanciest tools to get started. Here are the basics:

A Reliable Device
- Tablet: Wacom, iPad Pro (with Procreate), or budget-friendly options like XP-Pen.
- Computer: If you’re going for advanced tools like Photoshop, make sure your computer can handle it.
A Stylus
Most tablets come with one, but investing in a good stylus with pressure sensitivity is worth it. This gives you control over your strokes and helps mimic traditional drawing tools.
Software
You don’t have to splurge here. Start with free or affordable programs:
- Procreate: User-friendly and perfect for beginners.
- Krita: Free and versatile.
- Clip Studio Paint: Great for illustration and comics.
- Adobe Photoshop: Industry standard but pricier.
Optional Accessories
- A screen protector for tablets (to mimic paper texture).
- A comfortable glove to avoid smudging or palm interference.

Step 2: Start Small and Experiment

The key to getting started is to just start. Don’t worry about creating a masterpiece right away. Play with the tools, test different brushes, and get used to the software. Even scribbles count as progress!

One thing that got me when I first started is I had to have all the brushes, all the gadgets, all the new fancy stuff. Having the best brush won’t make you a better artist - start where you are and keep going until you get better. Then you can buy more stuff if your budget allows for it.

Step 3: Adopt a Growth Mindset

Here’s where most beginners trip up: perfectionism. You might look at your work and feel like it doesn’t measure up to what you see on Instagram or Pinterest. Guess what? It’s not supposed to!

Every pro artist you admire was once a beginner. Their early work looked nothing like what they produce now. The secret? They didn’t quit.

Perfection is a Dream Killer: Let’s face it, chasing perfection can leave you stuck in an endless loop of tweaking and editing. Accept that your work doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be done.
Done Is Better Than Perfect: Each piece you finish, no matter how messy, is a step forward.

Step 4: Push Through the Hard Days

Digital art can feel overwhelming at times. Maybe you’ll struggle with perspective, color theory, or figuring out how to use layers (we’ve all accidentally drawn on the wrong one). Instead of giving up, remember:

Mistakes Are Learning Opportunities: Every struggle teaches you something new.
Take Breaks, Not Quits: If frustration hits, walk away, but come back later.

Step 5: Find a Community

You don’t have to do this alone! Join digital art forums, social media groups, or Discord servers. Sharing your progress and connecting with others will keep you motivated. Plus, feedback from others can help you grow.

Remember: Progress, Not Perfection

Every time you create something, no matter how simple, you’re improving. Celebrate small wins—like nailing that shading technique or finally figuring out how to use a clipping mask.

Above all, enjoy the process. Digital art is a journey, and every line you draw is a step toward your unique artistic voice. So, grab your tools, embrace the messiness, and get started. You’ve got this!

What are you waiting for? Open that software, and let your creativity flow.

How to Get Started as a Digital Artist: Tools, Tips, and Overcoming Perfectionism