)
Both Apple Pencil and Canva are exceptional tools used by graphic designers, digital artists, and others interested parties for their convenience and top-notch features. The questions is: can you use these tools together?
Yes, you can use the Apple Pencil on Canva using the iPad. This graphic design app is compatible with many Apple and iOS devices as well as most drawing/graphics tablets and styluses. However, what you can do with the Apple Pencil in Canva is limited.
In this article, we will provide a brief guide detailing how you can connect your Apple Pencil to Canva for in app use. As you read, you will also learn what abilities you’ll have when using an Apple Pencil in Canva. This might help you determine whether the Apple Pencil is the best tool for Canva and if Canva is the right app for your needs.
How to Connect My Apple Pencil to Canva
If your Apple Pencil is already connected to your desired device, you’ve already done the majority of the work for this process. However, if you’re new to using an Apple Pencil and/or Canva, here is a complete, step-by-step guide on how to set up both tools.
To use an Apple Pencil in Canva, you will need to connect your Apple Pencil to a compatible device and then download and install the Canva app.
The steps necessary to connect your Apple Pencil to your device might vary slightly depending on which model and device you are using. We will provide steps for the first and second-generation Apple Pencil and, for the sake of this guide, use the most commonly paired device, an iPad.
Connect Your Apple Pencil to Your iPad
Those of you who have a first-generation Apple Pencil will have a few more steps to follow than those with a second-generation Apple Pencil.
To start, connect your Apple Pencil to your iPad and pair the devices. For a first-generation Apple Pencil, you will need to remove the cap found on the end of the stylus that houses the connector. You’ll then plug this connector into your iPad.
For a second-generation Apple Pencil, hold the stylus to the side of your iPad using the magnetic connector. It should automatically connect within seconds.
If your Apple Pencil is not connection, go to your “Settings” app, open the “Bluetooth” tab and make sure your device’s Bluetooth is toggled on.
Pair Your Apple Pencil and Confirm its Connection
After you’ve connected your first-generation Apple Pencil to your iPad, a Bluetooth request to pair the devices should pop up. Select the “Pair” button.
Your first and second-generation Apple Pencils should be paired and connected to your iPad now. You can confirm this by going to your iPad “Settings” app and then opening the “Apple Pencil” tab.
Here, you will see whether your Apple Pencil is connected along with other important information and settings, such as how much power your Apple Pen has, if you want it to draw with text vs. handwriting, and so on.
Download and Open Canva
Canva is accessible on most devices, including:
- iOS
- Android
- PC
- Mac
For a computer, you would access Canva via the internet, but on mobile devices like tablets and Smartphones, you’ll access it by downloading the Canva app.
Since this guide is focusing on the iPad, you would go to your “App Store” application and type in Canva. Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll be able to open it and utilize all of Canva’s exceptional features using your connected Apple Pencil.
Can I Draw With My Apple Pencil in Canva?
A convenient feature of Canva is that you can drag and drop headers, photos, and other graphic design features to create a clean and professional-looking image or document.
However, many individuals who use an Apple Pencil prefer to draw and write themselves rather than use stock fonts and images from the app. Does Canva permit free-drawing with your Apple Pencil, or are you limited to in-app options?
No, Canva does not have a drawing tool that would allow you to create your own illustrations or utilize your handwriting in app.
Although Canva boasts a number of fantastic features, Apple Pencil users are limited to tapping and dragging tools within the app.
This is because Canva isn’t built for digital illustration. Instead, it prides itself on its graphic design options that allow you to create an array of online and print items for social media, marketing, work organization, and more. Commonly used options include
- Business cards
- Logos
- Flyers/posters/brochures
- Invitations and cards
- Social media banners
- Resumes
- Calendars
Canva supplies numerous templates, stock images, fonts, and more to ensure these items appear professional and visually stunning. However, this is also why they don’t allow a drawing tool because it would complicate utilization of these templates, making the app less user friendly.
What Is An Alternative App for Drawing With an Apple Pencil?
Canva might not be the ideal app to use if you’re a digital artist who enjoys the drawing freedom a stylus can provide.
Luckily, there are some renowned and popular alternatives, depending on your device. If you are using a PC or Mac for your digital art, we highly recommend:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Illustrator
- Affinity Photo
- Corel Painter
- Rebelle 5
Those of you who are limited to mobile devices like the tablet or Smartphone will need to rely on apps. These tend to be more limited in their abilities, but the best options in terms of value, features, and quality include:
- Procreate
- Clip Studio Paint Pro
- Paintstorm Studio
- ArtRage
An exceptional feature in Canva is that you can draw whatever you want in most of these apps and then save and import your work into Canva to use in its graphic design templates.
Final Thoughts
While the Apple Pencil is compatible with Canva, it might not be the best combination if you’re someone who prefers to draw and write your own content using a stylus.
If you don’t mind the tap and drag abilities that an Apple Pencil is limited to in Canva, then the pairing will serve you well. However, if you prefer graphic illustrations, you might want to opt for a different app since Canva doesn’t offer a drawing tool.
