Creating a hybrid character

Hi, there are my tips for creating hybrid character in CLIP STUDIO PAINT. You can see how Mimo, the cat&butterfly fairy was created. Enjoy!

1. Preparations

Brainstorming, searching for references, selecting the style. Don’t be shy, get inspiration from other artist, creators and from your life.

2. Process

Sketch

This part is not about perfection but about ideas. So, pour all your creativity into this stage because the subsequent parts will build upon the concepts established here. If in this stage you can generate strong and outstanding ideas, the following steps will only enhance the presentation of the concept. CLIP STUDIO PAINT offers numerous brush types, not to mention those we've created. Therefore, choose a brush type for sketching that feels comfortable for you. I personally favor simple pencil brushes, especially for their texture and softness. For this section, a Raster Layer is ideal.

Important: Name your layers!

Tip: When designing characters, it's useful to use the Ruler tool. When you want to draw asymmetrical elements, simply Shift+Click on the Ruler Icon next to the Layer, this disables it, and if you want to use it again, then Shift+Click on the Ruler Icon next to the Layer again.

Line art

Here, we draw clean, fine lines based on the sketch. In this phase, it's advisable to switch to a Vector layer and draw with a firm, ink-type brush. Important: Ensure that the lines are closed, with no gaps between them.

Important: Name your layers!

Tip: While you may use Figure tools for the line art of objects to give a mechanical effect, for creating character lines, it is beneficial to use a pen brush, which makes the overall image dynamic.

Tip: Use line weight to give depth to the elements.

Base color

Once the line art is complete, use the Reference Layer: Select the Line art Layer, go to Set as Reference Layer, then within the Fill tool, choose Refer other layer, and enable the Reference Layer in the settings. Next, create a Raster Layer, select the color, and fill in the parts with color. Create a separate Raster Layer for each part and name them accordingly.

Important: Name your layers!

Tip: Use Color Gradient for coloring. Select the Layer corresponding to the part, then select Lock transparent pixels, and change the colors with the Gradient tool.

Tip: Try different color variations.

Effects

Here, we add special effects, patterns to the artwork to enhance its visual appeal. You'll find plenty of options within the Decoration tool. Add textures to clothes, shine to eyes, and glittering surfaces.

Important: Name your layers!

Tip: Use different Layer types to achieve different effects.

3. Finalizing

Add a background to the artwork and sign it. Save the time-lapse in the appropriate resolution, dimension and speed, and share the results with others to enjoy it!

Conclusion

Always let your imagination soar, and bring your vision to life step by step.

Bogim_art