How To Unzip and Import Procreate Brushes

Unzipping files on an iPad to import assets into Procreate can streamline your workflow and enhance your digital art projects with new brushes, textures, and more. 

Fortunately, Apple’s iPadOS makes it relatively straightforward to manage ZIP files directly from the Files app. 

Here’s how you can unzip files on your iPad and get those assets ready for use in Procreate.

_{^{Key Takeaways}}

1. Download Brushes: Begin by downloading your desired Procreate brush set in .zip format directly to your iPad.
2. Find the .zip File: Open the Files app and locate the .zip file, likely in the “Downloads” folder.
3. Unzip: Tap the .zip file to automatically extract its contents into a new folder, where you’ll find your brushes in .brush or .brushset format.
4. Import Brushes into Procreate: Open Procreate, go to the Brushes panel, and use the “+” icon to import your brushes, or drag and drop them into Procreate with Split View.

^{_{Step 1: Download the Brushes}}

Brushes for Procreate often come in .zip files to make downloading easier. Once you’ve found a brush set you love, download it directly to your iPad. This might involve tapping a download link from a website or an email.

_{^{Step 2: Locate the .zip File}}

Navigate to the Files app on your iPad. This is where all your downloads, documents, and other files live.

Look for the .zip file you just downloaded. By default, it might be in your “Downloads” folder unless you specify another location.

_{^{Step 3: Unzip the File}}

Simply tap on the .zip file. iOS will automatically unzip the file, creating a new folder with the same name as the zip file, where you’ll find your brushes (usually in .brush or .brushset format).

The beauty of iOS is that you don’t need a third-party app to unzip files; the built-in Files app has got you covered.

_{^{Step 4: Import the Brushes into Procreate}}

Once your brushes are unzipped, launch Procreate.

Tap on the brush icon to open the Brushes panel.

You can import your new brushes in a couple of ways:

Tap the “+” icon at the top of the Brushes panel and then “Import” to navigate to your unzipped brushes in the Files app.

With Procreate open in Split View alongside the Files app, simply drag the brush or brush set file into your brush library.

_{^{Additional Tips}} 

Organize your brushes: Consider creating a new brush set in Procreate for your downloaded brushes. This keeps them organized and easy to find.

Backup your collection: Once you have a collection of brushes you love, consider backing them up outside of your iPad for safekeeping.