Install the brushes in Procreate

Unzip, then two taps. This takes about a minute on any iPad running Procreate 5 or later.

Before you start

• Your download is one zip file. Tap it in the Files app and it unpacks into a folder named STAR Method Procreate Brush Set followed by the version number. Inside are five files: STAR Method.brushset (the five brushes), STAR Method Palette.swatches (the 20-colour palette), Brush Testing Template.pdf, Read me first - Install guide.pdf, and CHANGELOG.txt.
• Open the download link on the iPad itself, or send the zip to it. AirDrop from a Mac, or save it to iCloud Drive or the Files app.
• Procreate needs version 5.0 or later. Check under Procreate’s settings if you are not sure.

Install the brush set

1. Open the STAR Method Procreate Brush Set folder in the Files app and find STAR Method.brushset.
2. Tap the file once. Procreate opens and imports the set on its own. If a share sheet appears instead, choose Procreate from the list.
3. Open any canvas, tap the brush icon, and scroll the brush library to the bottom. The new set is called The Star Method, with the brushes numbered SM 01 to SM 05.
4. Drag the set higher in the library if you want it near the top. Press and hold the set name, then move it.

Install the swatch palette

1. In the same folder, find STAR Method Palette.swatches.
2. Tap it once. Procreate imports the palette.
3. Open a canvas, tap the colour circle, then Palettes. The new palette, named The Star Method, is at the bottom of the list. Tap Set default if you want it on every new canvas.

You can also import from inside Procreate. In the brush library tap + then Import; in Palettes tap + then New from file.

Set up a practice canvas

1. Create a new canvas at 3000 by 3000 px, 300 DPI, sRGB. That matches the setup page in the testing template.
2. Import the testing template PDF as a layer. Tap the wrench, then Add, then Insert a file. Lower its opacity and lock it.
3. Work on a new layer above it with one brush at a time. Start with SM 02 Packing: it is the most forgiving.

If something is not right

• The file opens as a preview, not in Procreate. Tap the share icon and choose Procreate from the app list.
• The brushes look faint or blotchy. Use an Apple Pencil. The brushes read pressure, and a finger gives a flat, light stroke.
• Procreate Pocket on iPhone will not import the set. The brushes are built for Procreate on iPad only.
• A brush was changed by accident. Open the brush settings and tap Reset at the top. Every STAR Method brush carries its reset point.
• Lost the download. Reply to your order email and the academy will send a fresh link.