What is Sketchbook Pro?

Sketchbook Pro is a digital drawing and painting application that was developed by Autodesk. Renowned for its intuitive interface and powerful tools, Sketchbook Pro catered to artists, designers, and illustrators who sought a versatile platform for their creative endeavors. The application provided a comprehensive set of features that allowed users to create stunning artwork, ranging from simple sketches to complex illustrations.

As of June 30, 2021, Autodesk discontinued Sketchbook Pro and transferred its ownership to Sketchbook, Inc. While the application is no longer available for new downloads or updates from Autodesk, existing users can continue to utilize their current versions until the end of their contract terms. Sketchbook Pro has since transitioned to an independent company, which continues to provide support and updates through its new platform.

Features

Sketchbook Pro was packed with features that catered to both amateur and professional artists. Here are some of the standout features:

1. Intuitive User Interface

• Clean Design: The user interface was designed to minimize distractions, allowing artists to focus on their work.
• Customizable Workspace: Users could arrange their tools and palettes according to their preferences, enhancing their workflow.

2. Extensive Brush Library

• Diverse Brush Options: Sketchbook Pro included a wide variety of brushes, including pencils, inks, markers, and paint brushes.
• Brush Customization: Artists could create and customize their own brushes, adjusting parameters like size, opacity, and texture.

3. Layer Management

• Multiple Layers: Users could create and manage multiple layers, allowing for non-destructive editing and complex compositions.
• Layer Effects: Features such as blending modes and opacity adjustments provided further control over the artwork.

4. Advanced Drawing Tools

• Symmetry and Perspective Guides: Sketchbook Pro offered tools for creating symmetrical designs and perspective grids, making it easier for artists to maintain proportions.
• Selection Tools: Artists could select and manipulate specific areas of their artwork with precision.

5. Color Palette Management

• Custom Color Palettes: Users could create and save custom color palettes for easy access.
• Color Wheel and Picker: The application featured a color wheel and picker for selecting colors intuitively.

6. Export Options

• Multiple File Formats: Sketchbook Pro allowed users to export their artwork in various formats, including JPEG, PNG, and PSD, facilitating compatibility with other software.

7. Touch and Stylus Support

• Pressure Sensitivity: The application supported pressure-sensitive stylus input, enabling artists to create dynamic lines and strokes that mimicked traditional drawing techniques.
• Touchscreen Compatibility: Sketchbook Pro was optimized for touchscreen devices, allowing for a natural drawing experience.

8. Animation Features

• Frame-by-Frame Animation: Users could create simple animations through a frame-by-frame approach, adding another dimension to their creative projects.

Use Cases

Sketchbook Pro was utilized by a diverse range of professionals and hobbyists in various fields. Here are some common use cases:

1. Concept Art

Artists in the gaming and film industries used Sketchbook Pro to create concept art, visualizing characters, environments, and props before production.

2. Illustration

Illustrators employed the application for book illustrations, editorial art, and character design, taking advantage of the extensive brush library and layer management features.

3. Product Design

Industrial designers utilized Sketchbook Pro to sketch product concepts and designs, enabling quick iterations and visual communication with stakeholders.

4. Storyboarding

Animators and filmmakers used Sketchbook Pro for storyboarding, creating visual narratives to plan out scenes and sequences.

5. Education

Students and educators in art and design programs used Sketchbook Pro as a teaching tool, allowing learners to practice digital drawing techniques and explore their creativity.

6. Personal Art Projects

Hobbyists and aspiring artists used the application for personal art projects, experimenting with different styles and techniques in a user-friendly environment.

Pricing

As of its discontinuation, Sketchbook Pro was no longer available for new purchases or subscriptions through Autodesk. Existing users could continue using their current versions based on their contracts. However, for those interested in the new iteration of Sketchbook under Sketchbook, Inc., pricing details would typically depend on the subscription model and features offered by the new company.

Comparison with Other Tools

When comparing Sketchbook Pro to other digital art tools available in the market, several key differences and similarities emerge:

1. Adobe Photoshop

• Similarities: Both applications support layers, brushes, and a wide range of export formats.
• Differences: Photoshop is more focused on photo editing and graphic design, while Sketchbook Pro is tailored specifically for drawing and illustration.

2. Corel Painter

• Similarities: Both tools offer extensive brush libraries and customization options.
• Differences: Corel Painter is known for its realistic painting simulation, while Sketchbook Pro is more streamlined for digital sketching.

3. Procreate

• Similarities: Both Sketchbook Pro and Procreate are popular among digital artists and offer touch support and pressure sensitivity.
• Differences: Procreate is exclusive to iOS and offers a more extensive set of features for animation and advanced brush settings.

4. Clip Studio Paint

• Similarities: Both applications provide robust tools for illustration and comic creation.
• Differences: Clip Studio Paint includes specialized features for comic artists, such as panel layouts and text tools, which are less emphasized in Sketchbook Pro.

FAQ

Is Sketchbook Pro still available for download?

No, as of June 30, 2021, Autodesk has discontinued Sketchbook Pro, and it is no longer available for download or updates. However, existing users can continue using their current version until the end of their contract terms.

Can I still get support for Sketchbook Pro?

Support for Sketchbook Pro has transitioned to Sketchbook, Inc. Users can visit the new Sketchbook website for assistance and information regarding the application.

What happens if I am currently using Sketchbook Pro as a student or educator?

Students and educators who were using Sketchbook Pro can continue using their existing versions until the end of their contract terms, but Autodesk will not offer new versions, upgrades, or updates.

Can I use Sketchbook Pro on multiple devices?

Sketchbook Pro was compatible with various devices, including tablets and computers. However, the ability to use it on multiple devices depended on the licensing agreement associated with the user's account.

What are the alternatives to Sketchbook Pro?

Alternatives to Sketchbook Pro include Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, Corel Painter, and Clip Studio Paint, each offering unique features tailored to different aspects of digital art and design.

Can I transfer my artwork from Sketchbook Pro to other software?

Yes, users could export their artwork from Sketchbook Pro in multiple file formats, such as JPEG, PNG, and PSD, allowing for easy transfer to other software for further editing or use.

What should I do if I need to reinstall Sketchbook Pro?

Since Autodesk no longer offers reinstalls or updates for Sketchbook Pro, users should refer to their enterprise or student account portal for re-downloading their active license if applicable.

In conclusion, Sketchbook Pro was a powerful and versatile tool for digital artists, offering a wide range of features that catered to various creative needs. While it has been discontinued, its legacy continues through the new platform established by Sketchbook, Inc., which aims to support and enhance the digital art experience for users around the world.