Importing Layers in Mental Canvas

This tutorial shows the process of importing a layers stack into Mental Canvas and using the projection tools to turn it into a spatial scene. This is featuring the newest update on iOS which enables group image import. We hope you’ll give it a try & enjoy!

This was shown using Procreate, but the process applies regardless of the software you use to create the layers: first you will export the layers as PNGs and then import them into Mental Canvas.

Thank you to Kamila Stankiewicz for illustrating this beautiful piece and sharing it with us for the tutorial!

Notes:
This is a new feature and it varies by OS:
iOS13 = limits to 1 image import at a time
iOS14 = New group import feature but it’s not ordered
iOS15 = New group import feature that allows the layers to be ordered
*Note there is an Apple Bug with iOS 15.1+ see below

If your images are coming in opaque rather than transparent, there are a couple things to check:
1) First, confirm that they have transparency in the photos album by tapping on them in the photos library (see 00:30). The background should turn black if they are transparent. If they are not transparent in the photos library, the issue could be due to the way you’re exporting the layers, or the Apple Photo library converting PNGs to JPG. In Procreate, make sure you have the background layer turned off to export with transparency. In your Photo Setting, make sure "Download and Keep Originals" is enabled.

Timestamps:
00:00 Intro & Exporting PNGs
00:47 Open Mental Canvas File
01:15 Import PNGs
02:13 Save Bookmark view
03:19 Hinge the Ground
04:50 Project Layers
07:00 Save Bookmarks to create the fly through
08:11 Additional Edits: Hinging the gate open
09:55 Exporting the Video & Notes

[MentalCanvas]

In our latest update we moved the aspect ratio settings to the "Export" menu. If you don't see them in the bookmark settings as the tutorial shows, they will be under "Export" along with the video & image export!

[EricDoggett]

This really is a great product, but $60/month is pricey if we are just using it to import layers and animate. Maybe consider having a cheaper tier that only includes the import/animation features (no drawing) so that we can do more affordable fly-throughs of our own art? I get that there are certain production houses that would warrant a $60/month fee, but there are also a lot of independents who love the animation component and aren't creating storyboards for Hollywood productions.

[yiviarts]

Downloaded today. Its extremely fascinating what you can do there. And it's still free. You guys are the best!

[johndeggendorf]

👍 Brilliant…simple & elegant interface. Never even heard of Mental Canvas, and 10 minutes later, I’m a raging fan. ✊☕️🎩🎩🎩

[argbanks]

This was very helpful and easy to follow - thank you!

[Lenniefinch]

Make sure you turn of the background layer in Procreate. I missed this

[deerhorns]

Thank you so much for this video! Everything is so well explained and clear, keep it up!

[arvenasaur]

How is this program even free?!! Mental Canvas is amazing and a blast to use!

[DavidBluelineGaming]

This is very helpful and inspiring - you have a lovely illustration style.

[Edcabraltv]

Good job on your tutorial. Thanks for the help. Now I know what to do. Lools pretty straight forward.🥰😋

[karishma]

Generally I don’t comment on videos but this is very informative and well explained.Thank you

[aycegungor]

BROTHER, YOU ARE THE BEST!!! You oooh really helped me!! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

[ManicMuppit]

OH MY GOD THATS HIW YOU TURN IT INTO A SQUARE 😂
Thank you! It was driving me mad!

[lelex]

It would be great if this app can add layer animation editing function

[staywithjude]

I wish there where more tutorials this is a great software T^T

[JOESeunghee]

I don't have an ipad nor that mental canvas app. and I don't know why I'm watching this but it's interesting

[huesandtones]

Yesterday…. What is this thing called Mental Canvas? Today… did my first project using MCD and loving it! Thank you for the wonderful tutorial!

[Kiki-bpzx]

Just downloaded the app really loved it hope I will get more features ❤❤❤

[marala]

Awesome presentation and explanation of how to use leyera in this app! Thanks for sharing!

[liliyalady]

Это не реально крутая программа 🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️ Как же она мне нравится!!! Спасибо, программисты!