Dithering in pixel art
Dithering places two colours in a pattern so the eye mixes them. It gives smooth shading and gradients while the palette stays small.
Step by step
- Choose the dither ink. In the tool options pick , then a pattern: a checker, or Bayer 2×2, 4×4 or 8×8.
- Set the mix. The mix slider chooses how much of the second colour goes in: half gives an even checker.
- Paint or fill. The pencil and the bucket both paint the pattern; the pattern lines up with the canvas, so separate strokes join without seams.
- Dithered gradients. The gradient tool (Shift+G) with the dither ink steps through the colours of a ramp with patterns instead of blends.