Smoothing in Clip Studio Paint can refer to a couple of different features: applying a smoothing filter to existing artwork on a layer, or enabling brush stabilization to smooth lines while you are drawing. Here's how to access both.
Applying a Smoothing Filter to a Layer
This method uses a filter to smooth out existing pixels or lines on a specific layer. It's useful for softening textures, blending areas, or reducing noise on finished artwork or scans.
To apply the Smoothing filter:
- Select the layer you wish to process in the Layer palette.
- Go to the [Filter] menu at the top of the screen.
- Choose [Effect].
- Select [Blur].
- Click [Smoothing].
Steps Summarized:
- Select Target Layer
- Menu:
Filter - Submenu:
Effect - Submenu:
Blur - Option:
Smoothing
A dialog box will appear where you can adjust the strength of the smoothing effect using a slider. Preview the effect on your canvas before confirming.
Enabling Brush Stabilization (Drawing Smoothing)
This is perhaps the most common meaning of "smoothing" when drawing digitally. Brush stabilization helps correct shaky hand movements, making your lines smoother and more controlled as you draw them. It's a per-tool setting.
To turn on brush stabilization for a drawing tool:
- Select the drawing tool you want to use (e.g., Pen, Pencil, Brush).
- Open the Tool Property palette. If you don't see it, go to the
Windowmenu and selectTool Property. - Look for the setting labeled "Stabilization" or "Correction". The exact name might vary slightly depending on the tool or version, but it usually uses one of these terms.
- Increase the value using the slider or input box. A higher value provides more smoothing but may introduce a slight lag in your stroke.
Tips for Brush Stabilization:
- Experiment with different values to find what works best for your drawing style and hand steadiness.
- Lower values (e.g., 1-10) offer minimal correction.
- Higher values (e.g., 30-50+) provide significant smoothing, good for long, smooth curves or lineart.
- Some tools might have advanced stabilization options accessible by clicking the wrench icon on the Tool Property palette to open the Sub Tool Detail palette.
Comparing Smoothing Methods
Here's a quick look at the two types of smoothing:
| Feature | Smoothing Filter | Brush Stabilization (Correction) |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Smoothes existing pixels/art | Smoothes lines while drawing |
| Applied to | Entire layer or selection | Individual brush strokes |
| When to use | Post-processing, softening, blending | Lineart, drawing smooth curves |
| How to access | Filter > Effect > Blur > Smoothing |
Tool Property palette (per tool) |
Understanding which type of smoothing you need will help you use the right feature effectively in Clip Studio Paint.
