Setting Up Reference Windows for Digital Drawing on iPad

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Enable Stage Manager

   Open Settings, navigate to Multitasking & Gestures, and select Stage Manager. Ensure the toggle for 'Recent Apps' is enabled to maintain access to your sidebar.

   Note: Stage Manager is required for true floating reference windows.
2. 30 sec

   Open your primary drawing application

   Launch your preferred illustration app, such as Procreate or Adobe Fresco. Ensure the canvas is active before proceeding to add your reference layer.

3. 30 sec

   Add a reference window

   Tap the three-dot multitasking button at the top of the screen. Select the 'Add Window' icon to open your app picker or swipe up from the bottom to reveal the Dock and drag your reference app into the workspace.

   Note: Use Photos or Files for optimal reference management.
4. 1 min

   Resize and position your reference

   Drag the corner handle of the secondary window to shrink the reference image to a manageable size. Position it to the left or right edge of your canvas to keep your active drawing area clear.

5. 30 sec

   Adjust window transparency

   If your drawing app supports it, toggle the reference window's opacity settings. In dedicated drawing apps like Procreate, use the 'Reference' panel within the Canvas menu instead for a non-floating, canvas-locked preview.

   Note: Floating windows remain on top until manually minimized.