- FireAlpaca earned its rightful place on this list for a few reasons. First of all, this app is exceptionally lightweight which makes it a great solution if you are using an older Mac. Mind you the software runs on MacOS X 10.7 and later. In terms of tools and features, FireAlpaca doesn’t offer as much as some other entries on this list.
- FireAlpaca is a free tool that is available for both Mac and Windows platforms. It is also very versatile and can be used by anyone – the support for the tool is very good, as it is available in 10 different languages.
FireAlpaca is a freeware that does not require payment of any license fee for both individual users and commercial use. Search & Install any app on Mac. Skip to content. Install Fire Alpaca on Mac OSX. App name: Fire Alpaca; App description: firealpaca (App.
AdvertisementFirealpaca is a free and powerful tool for you to use for drawing and image editing. In this article, we will discuss which is the best FireAlpaca tutorial for you to learn using the program.
Nowadays digital art has an advantage of the traditional one because of the simplicity and more added options and effects that you cannot perform with traditional art. It is also much simpler because there are many templates and brushes and pens that will allow you to produce certain effects, shadows, and silhouettes that traditional art doesn’t allow you.
FireAlpaca is a free tool that is available for both Mac and Windows platforms. It is also very versatile and can be used by anyone – the support for the tool is very good, as it is available in 10 different languages. A big advantage of the tool is that it can be used as a learning tool by beginners, but also suitable for more experienced users who know what they are doing. It is simple, easy to use and also quick to learn. It can be run by PCs with lower-end hardware while also running at very high speeds, which makes it an easy tool to use and learn.
The Best FireAlpaca tutorial examples
Consider using these tutorials if you want to learn how to use FireAlpaca. Pick one that suits your needs best. There are plenty of them, so let’s get started.
How to use FireAlpaca
This is a video tutorial that will teach you how to use Firealpaca and the basics of it.
Everything FireAlpaca
FireAlpaca Basics
You will learn the basics of the popular drawing software with this FireAlpaca tutorial. It will teach you to navigate the UI, how to set up canvases and its basics, the tools that you can use and the various brushes in your toolbox.
To create awesome impressive art in Firealpaca, you will first need to learn about the basics and the important features that you need to master first. This drawing software differs from other tools on the market in the sense that you can create your own gradients.
FireAlpaca Tutorial: Shading
How to paint digitally over lineart (in FireAlpaca )
This tutorial shows you some of the important things about layers; when you put your layers on multiply, you need to keep some things in mind. You can put your layers over your lineart with this multiply option, and this tutorial helps you understand it.
This method is used in 3D art production. Basically, your 3D models should look as realistic as possible, and using different brushes and shadow colors will help you achieve this. Use this tutorial to paint digitally over lineart.
How to use FireAlpaca
This FireAlpaca tutorial is a video tutorial that will teach everything about the software – what do the tools do, how to use them, how to change between them and use them together. This tutorial is basically a beginner’s tutorial for FireAlpaca that will certainly make their life much easier.
A quick grass tutorial
This is a tutorial that will help you learn how to draw grass.
Common FireAlpaca Questions
Do you have any questions about FireAlpaca that you want to ask, but you don’t know who to ask? Well, this video will answer a lot of questions, from more simple ones to more complicated ones. The artist in this video does a great job of answering all those questions that beginners might have.
How to paint in FireAlpaca
This tutorial will teach you how to use and paint in FireAlpaca. You should start by making a sketch, to begin with, a good solid foundation for any painting. Then with each next step, you will get closer to the end product and you will quickly begin to understand the steps that make up a good painting in FireAlpaca. If you don’t know what technique to use, then experiment; this is your best bet to getting to know yourself as an artist and really understand the style that you want to use.
Shading Tips
This FireAlpaca tutorial will teach you about the most important part of a realistic painting – the shading. Everything will start with a simple ball and a light source, which you will need to analyze and really understand how to draw the shades. You will gain a lot of knowledge with this tutorial, and it will make you aware of the basic errors and also give you some very good tips to become better at shading in FireAlpaca.
How to Firealpaca: Layers
This video tutorial of firealpaca will help you understand the layers and their specifics. You will learn that you are able to use more layers at once, how to save it and give it a name, how to join various layers, split them and then delete them. You can change the opacity, you can lock layers too if you want. This tutorial will teach you all the essentials.
Character Tutorial
This video is a very practical one – if you want to get straight to drawing and ignore all the talk about tools and buttons and all that stuff, then this video tutorial is for you. You will learn how to draw a character from start to finish. You will learn about layers and all the most important things you need to draw this character quickly and nicely.
FireAlpaca Tutorial: Learn Anatomy Fast
This tutorial will help you to get the proportions of your drawings right. Are the arms of the character too big, are the hands too small? Is the head too big for the body, or vice versa? Then consider having a look at this tutorial, which will help you to eradicate those issues. Also, it will help you get the measurements done in order to produce a realistic painting with perfect proportions.
Blend in Firealpaca
Often referred to as the watercolor brush, the blending brush is one of the most important and effective tools in your toolshed for drawing. You will learn how to use the blending brush by taking a look at how the artist in the video styles the nose of a character. The video ends with a quick tutorial on how to draw a bust, so it will make you understand the technique even better.
How to use Layers
Using and mastering layers can be very intimidating for beginners, especially if you have no prior experience in drawing. This tutorial is there to save the day. It covers just about everything you need to know about layers in FireAlpaca – how to use them, create more, blend them together, delete them, rename them and much more.
If you enjoyed reading this article about FireAlpaca tutorials, you should read these as well:
- How to add fonts to FireAlpaca (FireAlpaca fonts guide)
- Free Maya rigs you can download quickly and use them
- Download these Paint Tool SAI Brushes with a few simple clicks
- Clip Studio Paint brushes (Manga studio brushes) you should download
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FAQ
What is FireAlpaca?
FireAlpaca is a Digital Art program for both Windows and Mac. It’s very simple to use and doesn’t take up much hard drive space. The best part? It’s free!
What is MediBang Paint (Formerly known as Cloud Alpaca)?
MediBang Paint is essentially FireAlpaca but is designed more heavily for printed materials, comic making, saving for the cloud, working in teams, and has a darker interface.
Where can I download FireAlpaca/MediBang Paint?
You can download FA here: www.firealpaca.com/en
Download MBP (CA) here: www.medibangpaint.com/en
OR click on the “DOWNLOAD” link on the sidebar.
Which program is better?
Neither. Both programs work the same. Medibang Paint, however, does have more to offer. It’s all about personal preference.
Will FA/MBP work on my Windows (10, 8, 7…), Mac, Android Tablet/Phone, iOS Tablet/Phone, Windows Tablet/Phone, etc.?
Windows and Mac can download either program from their respective websites.
Firealpaca Apk
Linux may need help from another program like Wine (not verified).
Android can only get Medibang Paint Pro in an App form found on Google Play (also LayerPaint/HD but that costs some money).
iOS (iPhones and iPads) can only get Medibang Paint Pro in App form on the iTunes AppStore.
FA is desktop based, thus only for computers/laptops.
How do I update FA/MBP? Do I have to re-download it?
As of now, there is no update system in place for either of these programs. You must re-download them whenever there is an update. Do not worry about losing brushes or drawings.
If you purchase FA from Steam, you will get updates without having the redownload the program.
When is the next update for FireAlpaca/MediBang Paint?
I do not know.
“You guys should consider adding…”
We are not affiliated with FA/MBP. Meaning: we do not have any say in what or when things will come out.
Who created your banner?
Our banner was designed by Colouredlead! ❤
How do I open the canvas?
Go to: File>New.
How do I save as a (.jpg, .png, .bitmap, etc.)?
Choose from the drop down of file types when saving.
How do you close a file without closing the entire program?
Ctrl+W on a PC or Cmmd+W on a Mac. Alternatively, through the File menu, Close.
Is there a Line Tool?
Select the brush, and towards the top, it will show you all the Snap options and next to that is a dropdown that, by default, says Freehand. Choose Line from the dropdown.
Also, right above the Dye bucket is a black square, you can use that as a line tool.
Is there a Curve Tool?
FA has a Curve Tool now! It is under Snap; double-click to end the Curve. Draw curve/ Draw curve (Fade In/Out) are options in Curve Snap.
Note: this curve tool is not a vectoring tool.
Is there a way to center an image?
With update 1.3.0, you can now have select tools scale from center. Using them as guidelines would be the best way to center an image. Or use the grids.
How do I adjust the pen pressure?
Double click on the brush you want to adjust and play around with the preferences until you get a result that satisfies you.
Can you achieve pen pressure with a mouse?
Double click the pen brush and check “Force Fade In/Out” released in version 1.2.2.
The Curve Snap also offers Draw Curve (Fade In/Out)
How can I see the size of my brush?
Go to: View > Brush Size
How do I add textures to my art?
Create a new layer on top of the layer that you want to add textures to then check where it says “Clipping.” Add your texture to that layer.
See this post: here
How do I drag things around the screen?
Press “v” to select the move tool or select it off the left side bar.
How do I resize an object?
Ctrl/Cmmd+T. Alternatively, Select menu, Transform.
To finish and “freeze” the changes, press Ctrl/Cmmd+T again or click the OK button (bottom of the window).
How do I rotate an object?
Press Ctrl+T or Cmmd+T and move the mouse until you get a circle looking curser that has two arrows pointing towards each other. Then rotate your object. (PS. Holding shift will only allow the object to rotate at a set number of degrees).
To finish and “freeze” the changes, press Ctrl/Cmmd+T again or click the OK button (bottom of the window).
How do I deselect/get rid of the blue area?
Ctrl/Cmmd+D
What do all the blending options do?
See this post (x)
Is there a way to make animated .GIFs?
FA now has Onion Skin Mode! Use this for AlpacaDouga to create an animation/GIF! See Obtusity’s post HERE on how to use it!
How do I create a Cyan/Red 3D effect?
See this post.
Is there a way to download/get more brushes?
Yes, either download ones that others have made or create your own. Also, you can code your own through scripts.
How do I create a blending tool/the “Water Brush?”
Please see this post: Water Brush
How do I make Bitmap Brushes?
1.) Find or make a .png
2.) Click on Add Brush (Bitmap) at the bottom of the brush box
3.) Customize the brush to your liking and save :)
See this post: here
How do I make my brushes have a softer appearance?
Double click on a brush and check “Soft Edge” if it’s available for that brush (only certain brushes have it). You can also check it at the top if it’s not grayed out.
How do I change the brush size using hot keys?
PC: Ctrl + Alt + drag right or left
Mac: Cmmd + Option + drag right or left
How do I save a file without all the layers merging?
Save the file as a .mdp (FA, MBP, and Layer Paint can read this file format) or .psd (FireAlpaca and Photoshop can read this) to preserve layers.
How do you open two (or more files) and put them on the same canvas?
Drag and drop (from your files/finder/or from another project)
-or-
Open the two files going File>Open. Then go File>New to make a canvas. Press Ctrl+A or Cmmd+A to select everything. Then press Ctrl+C or Cmmd+C to copy. Move over to your canvas and press Ctrl+V or Cmmd+V to paste.
Can you select more than one layer at a time?
Nope (unless you put them all in a folder to drag around)
How do you duplicate something (like an eye, arm, hand, etc.)
Use a selection tool, copy (ctrl/cmmd+c), paste (ctrl/cmmd+v), layer>Rotate>flip horizontal/vertical, and move it.
How do you flip a selection horizontally or vertically?
Go to: Layer>Rotate you get the option Flip Vertically or Flip Horizontally.
How do I get the default background to change from solid white to transparent?
Go to: View>Transparent Background.
Can you dye something transparent (using the dye bucket)?
No, you have to use a brush set to transparent, erase, or cut it out using a selection tool.
How do you change the color of your lineart?
There are multiple ways to do this:
1.) With the “wand tool” select your lineart then pick a color you would like to change it to—depending on the quality of your lines (and whether they are digital or traditional) will depend if it selects them all or not. Once you have that take your “brush tool” and go over the lines, which will change their color, or just use the dye bucket.
2.) Make a new layer and set it to “Clipping” then use the dye bucket to change the color.
3.) Using the “PenSelect Tool” color over your lineart, which will create a selection, then dye it whatever color you like.
4.) Create a new layer and check “Protect Alpha,” then color over it. (I recommend duplicating the lineart layer before using this method)
How do I create a glow effect?
Create a layer underneath the layer you want to put the glow on. Using the pen, draw an outline and blur it. Or just use the airbrush tool.
Also, you can do it use THIS method.
Is there a way to narrow the point of a brush?
Use the eraser to create sharp edges or adjust your pen pressure (not applicable to mouses. Please see “Can I achieve pen pressure with a mouse”)
How do I change right click from Eyedropper to Eraser?
Ctrl/Cmmd+K or File > Environment Settings. Next to “Right Click” change to “Eraser.”
Will (Insert Company’s Name)’s tablet work with FA?
As long as the drivers work on your computer, I cannot see why the tablet would not work. You may need to adjust some things if it doesn’t work by default. Please see “The lines I draw in FireAlpaca aren’t lined up with my tablet/mouse, help!”
How do I change the size of something?
1.) Make sure your on your “sketch” layer
2.) Select the “Select” Tool, the “Wand” Tool, or the “SelectPen” Tool
3.) Press Ctrl + T or Cmmd + T (depending on your OS).
4.) Go to the little tiny boxes on the corner until the cursor turns into a “plus” sign.
5.) Scale up, down, or whatever.
6.) Press Ctrl +T or Cmmd +T again
How can I make my file compatible with DA/posting online?
Save it as a .png/.jpg
Can FA run on Ubuntu?
I haven’t heard anyone say that they are using it, but there are two ways that you might be able to:
1.) Download Wine and run it off from there
2.) Buy Crossover and hope that it supports FA
Neither of these are guaranteed to work.
How do I change opacity using hot keys?
There aren’t any set for it.
Can you change the keyboard shortcuts?
Yes! File > Shortcut Settings. (This only works before you start a project).
Are there color swatches/can you download them?
No.
Can FA do website related building?
If you want to really frustrate yourself, then I’d say go for it. Otherwise, I’d suggest sticking with a program that you absolutely know you can build websites from.
Firealpaca Mac
Can FA run off a USB?
Yes, see this post: Running FA on USB
How do you put colors on the palette?
1.) Choose the color you want to add to the palette
2.) Open the Palette, which should be located at the bottom of the color selection (otherwise go to Window>Palette )
3.) At the bottom of the palette tab is a little piece of paper icon (next to the trash can icon) click that
4.) Give your color a name
5.) Press “Ok”
How do you crop something?
Using the Select Tool, select the area you want to crop, then go to Edit>Crop.
What is the stabilizer and how do you use it?
The “stabilizer” in FireAlpaca is called “Correction” it is located at the top of the program and has values from 0-19. While 19 will give you the most crisp lines, it will take longer for them to be drawn. And I don’t recommend having it set on anything other than 0 if you’re coloring (my personal opinion). Play around with different values until you find one that suits you the best.
Is there a way to color balance?
Not available. Sorry.
How do you skew or distort an image?
Hold ctrl/cmmd while in transformation.
How do I make an image Black and White?
Layer > Hue > Saturation (move to 0).
Where is the Extracting Lines?
Layer > Extracting Lines
What does Extracting Lines do?
Separates ink lines from sketch lines (things of that nature).
What is the Magic Wand/How does it work?
The magic wand selects areas inside lines or a canvas. If you hold Shift you can click more than one area at once.
What is the default page size?
1400 x 1600. Also, there are defaults for various page sizes that you can select upon creating a new file.
How do I resize the canvas?
Edit > Canvas Size (Let’s you resize just the canvas excluding the image).
Edit > Image Size (resizes the entire canvas–image and all–to your new dimensions)
I’m looking for a certain Custom Brush. Can you help?
Check under the tags #Custom Brush and #Brushes first. If not, send us a message. Users a very helpful.
How do we make Comics in FireAlpaca/MediBang Paint?
Layer > Koma Material. Select the Slice Tool on the side bar to chop it up. Hold Shift to get diagonals.
See this post: here
Firealpaca Mac Download
-or-
File>New>Switch to Comic Tab and select what you want.
How do I use the Operation Tool?
See previous question.
How do I fix the kerning/leading of my slices (referring to making comics)?
Adjust the values at the top when selected on the slice tool. Kerning refers to the vertical lines and leading the horizontal.
I downloaded FA and it did not come with the Watercolor and Blur brushes (etc.)!
Try deleting the FireAlpaca program folder and reopening the program (this will delete any saved preferences). If that does not work, do a full uninstall (making sure the program folder is removed) and re-download the program.
My brush keeps coming out pixelated instead of smooth, help!
Select the brush that is doing this, go to the top of the screen, and check the box next to “AntiAliasing.”
The preview, when I transform things, looks blurry!
That’s just the preview. It will look fine after you accept the changes (unless you scaled up, then it will be blurry).
I accidentally moved my sidebars and now they’re overlapping/in the way/I can’t move them back, help!
Go to: Window>Initialize and check “yes”
The lines I draw in FireAlpaca aren’t lined up with my tablet/mouse, help!
1.) Check that drivers are updated.
2.) Plug in tablet before/after program is opened.
3.) Press Ctrl+K or Cmmd+K to open the “Environment Settings.” Next to “brush coordinate” choose “Tablet Coordinate (Recommended).”
Help! I closed the Layer/Navigator/Brush Box/Palette/etc.! How do I get it back?
Under the Window tab at the top.
My text keeps coming out sideways!
Ctrl/Cmmd+K or File > Environment Setting. Check the box next to Text Rendering.
Help! Something happened to my file!!!!!
If you saved as a .psd/.mdp and the file is corrupted try opening in another program (just for .psd). If that doesn’t work, your file is lost.
Suggestion: Save multiple versions of your files
If you saved it as a .png/.jpg the file is lost. Save .psd/.mdp versions of all your files as well.
Medibang Paint/FireAlpaca isn’t in English/My Native Language.
On the top bar all the way to the right is “Help”
The second one down is “Language” which has a drop down.
Select your language there.
My iPad/Samsung Galaxy/Kindle Fire/etc. can’t run FA/MBP!
FA/MBP are Windows/Mac based programs. However, you can go to the App Store or Google Play and download MediBang Paint for your tablet, which works interchangeably with MBP.
Don’t see the answer to your question here? Ask us!