Hubbry Logo
Clip Studio PaintClip Studio PaintMain
Open search
Clip Studio Paint
Community hub
Clip Studio Paint
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Clip Studio Paint
Clip Studio Paint
from Wikipedia

Clip Studio Paint
DeveloperCelsys [ja]
Initial release2012; 13 years ago (2012)
Stable release
4.1.0 / July 29, 2025; 2 months ago (2025-07-29)
Written inC++, Python
Operating systemmacOS, Windows, iPadOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS
Available in10 languages
List of languages
English (United States), French, German, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Thai, and Traditional Chinese
TypeGraphics editor
LicenseProprietary
Websitewww.clipstudio.net/en

Clip Studio Paint (previously marketed as Manga Studio in North America), informally known in Japan as Kurisuta (クリスタ),[Note 1] is a family of software applications developed by Japanese graphics software company Celsys. It is used for the digital creation of comics, general illustration, and 2D animation. The software is available in versions for macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS, Android, and ChromeOS. The program is widely used by amateur and professional comics creators.[1]

The application is sold in editions with varying feature sets. The full-featured edition is a page-based, layered drawing program, with support for bitmap and vector art, text, imported 3D models, and frame-by-frame animation. It is designed for use with a stylus and a graphics tablet or tablet computer. It has drawing tools which emulate natural media such as pencils, ink pens, and brushes, as well as patterns and decorations. It is distinguished from similar programs by features designed for creating comics: tools for creating panel layouts, perspective rulers, sketching, inking, applying tones and textures, coloring, and creating word balloons and captions.[2]

History

[edit]

Clip Studio Paint Ver. 1.0.0 was released on May 31, 2012, for macOS and Windows,[3] distributed at the time as Manga Studio 5 by Smith Micro Software for Western markets. In 2016, the name "Manga Studio" was deprecated, with the program sold in all markets as "Clip Studio Paint".[4][5] The version released under this unified branding (build 1.5.4 of the redesigned application) also introduced a new file format (extension .clip) and frame-by-frame animation.[6] In late 2017, Celsys took over direct support for the software worldwide, and ceased its relationship with Smith Micro.[7] In July 2018, Celsys began a partnership with Graphixly for distribution in North America, South America, and Europe.

Clip Studio Paint for the Apple iPad was introduced in November 2017,[8] and for the iPhone in December 2019.[9] Clip Studio Paint for Samsung Galaxy tablets and smartphones was released in August 2020 on the Galaxy Store,[10][11] with versions for other Android devices and Chromebooks released in December.[12][13]

The Windows and macOS versions of the software have been sold and distributed either from the developer's web site or on DVD, and purchased either with a perpetual license or an ongoing subscription. The versions for iPhone, iPad, and Android-based devices are distributed through the corresponding app stores free of charge, but require a subscription – which includes cloud storage – for unrestricted use. Without a subscription, the tablet versions can be used for up to a specified number of months, and the phone versions can be used for 30 hours per month.[9]

From 2013 to 2023, regular updates for version 1 were distributed free of additional charge to both perpetual and subscription users. Since the release of version 2 in 2023,[14] feature updates are included only in subscription plans and are available to perpetual licenses at an additional cost.[15] Perpetual licenses can be upgraded permanently or with an annual "update pass".[16][17] The "update pass" provides early access to features to be included in subsequent perpetual licenses for 12 months, after which the software reverts to the original license if not renewed.[18] In March 2024, version 3.0 was released,[19][20] and version 4.0 introduced additional features in March 2025.[21]

Editions

[edit]

Clip Studio Paint is available in three editions, with differing feature sets and prices: Debut (bundle-only grade),[22] Pro (support for vector-based drawing, custom textures, and comics-focused features), and EX (adding support for multi-page documents, book exporting, and 2D animation).[23][2][24]

Companion programs include Clip Studio (for managing and sharing digital assets distributed through the Clip Studio web site, managing licenses, and getting updates and support) and Clip Studio Modeler (for setting up 3D materials to use in Clip Studio Paint).

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Clip Studio Paint is a commercial and illustration software developed by the Japanese company CELSYS, Inc., designed primarily for creating , , illustrations, webtoons, and animations using graphics tablets and other input devices. Originally evolving from CELSYS's earlier products, including Comic Studio (released in Japan in 2001) and its international counterpart Manga Studio (launched in 2002), Clip Studio Paint was introduced globally in 2012 as a unified, advanced application that integrated and expanded upon these predecessors' comic-focused tools into a full-featured suite. The software supports cross-platform use on Windows, macOS, , , Android tablets and phones, and , enabling seamless workflow across devices with features like synchronization and up to 10 GB of storage. Key capabilities include over 100,000 customizable brushes and assets, 3D models for posing and reference, vector layers, advanced transformation tools such as Puppet Warp and Liquify, support for up to 10,000 layers per project, and dedicated functions like tables and frame-by-frame drawing. Trusted by professionals at studios like Marvel and , as well as in educational institutions, Clip Studio Paint has grown to serve over 50 million users as of July 2025, with ongoing updates enhancing its modular interface and creative tools.

Development and history

Origins and early releases

Celsys, Inc. was established in May 1991 in , , initially developing software for animation production, such as the !PRO system released in 1993. In August 2001, Celsys launched ComicStudio Ver.1.0 exclusively in , a specialized application designed to optimize production workflows by integrating tools for panel division, inking, and page assembly that mirrored traditional analog methods in a digital environment. The software's international expansion occurred in February 2006 with the release of its English-language version, branded as Manga Studio and distributed by e-frontier in the United States and other Western markets for Windows platforms. This debut edition, corresponding to ComicStudio Ver.3.0, prioritized creation with robust features for , vector-based inking, and customizable brushes tailored to black-and-white common in and . Early versions introduced foundational tools that became hallmarks of the software, including screen tones for efficient shading and texture application, panel tools for rapid comic page structuring, and perspective rulers for accurate background rendering—features refined in Manga Studio Ver.3.0 (2006) and further expanded in Ver.4.0 (November 2008), which added support for Mac OS X and enhanced customization options. Following e-frontier's acquisition by Smith Micro Software in December 2007, the latter assumed distribution responsibilities for Manga Studio starting in 2008, broadening its availability in and while maintaining focus on professional comic artists. These origins laid the groundwork for the software's later evolution into Clip Studio Paint in 2012.

Major version updates

Clip Studio Paint's beta version 1.0 was released in 2011, with the full launch occurring in May 2012 as Manga Studio 5 internationally, distributed by Smith Micro Software. In 2013, the software underwent an official global rename from Manga Studio to Clip Studio Paint to align international and Japanese naming conventions. Version 1.5, released in 2015, introduced basic animation support, including timeline functionality for frame-by-frame creation. The subscription model was introduced in November 2017 alongside perpetual licenses, coinciding with the release to enable cross-device access and ongoing updates, and Celsys regaining full distribution control from Smith Micro Software. Clip Studio Paint 2.0 launched in March 2023, featuring an advanced animation timeline for multi-layer management, a vector eraser tool for precise line adjustments, and 3D deformation tools to manipulate models dynamically. Version 3.0 arrived in early 2024, with expanded tools for vertical scrolling formats and panel layouts. Clip Studio Paint 4.0 was released on March 12, 2025, followed by patches up to Ver. 4.1.4 in September 2025; key additions included the puppet warp tool for intuitive 2D pose adjustments, import for 3D models, and improved export options for multi-format compatibility. Post-2020 developments have emphasized ongoing cloud integration via Clip Studio Cloud for project backups and synchronization across devices, alongside expansions to the asset marketplace with increased user-generated materials and 3D libraries.

Features

Illustration and painting tools

Clip Studio Paint provides a robust set of raster and vector tools tailored for digital and , enabling artists to create detailed artwork with natural behaviors and precise control. The software features highly customizable that simulate traditional media such as watercolor, oil paints, and pencils, incorporating pressure sensitivity for varying line thickness and adjustments to size and density based on pen pressure, texture options and textured brush tips for realistic material effects, random variation for more organic stroke outcomes, and controls to smooth edges and reduce jaggedness. Blending modes, such as linear burn for inky buildup effects and watercolor edges for gritty hand-drawn shading, further enhance customization possibilities. Vector layers support scalable , allowing artists to resize drawings without loss of quality, while tools like the Bezier curve enable smooth editing of curves through adjustable control points. Correction layers facilitate non-destructive adjustments, such as modifying hue, saturation, and , preserving the original artwork for iterative refinements. Selection tools, including the lasso for freehand outlining and the magic wand (also known as Auto Select) for color-based selections, work alongside fill operations that automatically close small gaps in outlines to ensure even coloring without overflow. Blending modes, such as multiply and overlay, allow for advanced by controlling how layers interact, enabling effects like shadows and highlights in a single workflow. The color history palette tracks recently used colors for quick access, while the color mixer and wheel support palette management, including the creation of fills for smooth transitions and pattern fills for textured backgrounds. For artists creating digital dōjinshi works, the basic expression color (color mode) setting is an important consideration. RGB is generally recommended due to its wider color gamut, vibrant appearance, and suitability for digital display and social media posting. Many dōjin printing services (such as Graphic and Neko no Shippo) automatically convert RGB data to CMYK for printing, allowing RGB files to be used without issues. CMYK provides more accurate print color reproduction but can make colors appear dull on screen and limit digital expression. CMYK should be considered only for projects requiring strict print color management. Stabilization features reduce hand tremors during by smoothing strokes in real-time, a capability introduced in early versions and enhanced with corrective stroke options for post-draw adjustments. In version 4.0, these tools were refined with object snap functionality, allowing lines and shapes to automatically align to rulers or guides for greater precision in line drawing.

Comic and creation tools

Clip Studio Paint provides specialized tools for and creation, enabling artists to efficiently handle sequential storytelling workflows. These features focus on , shading with traditional techniques, integration, and , distinguishing them from general capabilities. For inking lines, users can leverage customizable brush tools from the broader suite. The software's panel tools facilitate automatic creation of comic frames, generating them as dedicated layer folders that mask the canvas to contain artwork within borders and prevent spillover. Artists can draw panels manually using ruler-assisted sub-tools for precise gutters and reversible borders, allowing easy adjustments to panel shapes without redrawing. Speech balloon auto-fitting integrates seamlessly, with presets that adapt to panel edges and content, supporting dynamic placement during layout phases. These elements streamline the composition of multi-panel pages, mimicking traditional manga production methods while offering digital flexibility. For shading, Clip Studio Paint includes an extensive screen tone library accessible via the Material palette, featuring patterns such as dots, lines, and noise for applying halftones to areas. Users apply tones by dragging them onto layers or selections, with customizable options for (lines per inch), , , and type directly in the Layer Property palette. Clipping masks ensure tones conform to underlying artwork, and the Move Tone Pattern sub-tool allows repositioning without distortion, ideal for traditional manga-style rendering of shadows and textures. Text tools are tailored for dialogue insertion, supporting font management through a dedicated palette that includes comic-specific typefaces like WildWords and Clip Studio Comic for all-caps lettering. Features enable curved text along paths, consistent sizing across bubbles, and handwritten-style tracing for personalized effects, with a recommended limit of 25 words per balloon to maintain readability. Word balloon shapes offer adjustable tails and presets, snapping to vector layers or rulers for precise alignment within panels. In the EX edition, the Story Editor supports multi-page management, allowing users to organize thumbnails, navigate sequences, and add script notes directly within the project file. This facilitates workflow for longer narratives, with tools to duplicate pages, adjust layouts, and preview spreads. Version 4.0 introduced webtoon-specific vertical scrolling templates, optimized for long-form digital comics, alongside line art extraction filters that convert colored artwork to monochrome by isolating lines from images. These enhancements, available in the EX edition, include improved tone conversion settings with savable presets and brush shape options on vector layers, aiding webtoon artists in adapting traditional manga techniques to vertical formats.

3D integration and animation

Clip Studio Paint integrates 3D models to assist artists in creating dynamic poses and references, featuring a library of customizable 3D drawing figures including figures and props that can be manipulated for and workflows. These models support intuitive posing through manipulation, allowing users to adjust limbs and torsos within natural motion ranges, while sources can be configured to cast realistic shadows between 3D objects for accurate rendering. Additionally, artists can draw directly onto the surfaces of 3D primitives and figures, enabling seamless integration of 2D artwork with 3D elements to generate perspective guides or textured models. Version 4.0 introduced significant enhancements to 3D functionality, including puppet warp tools that allow deformation of 2D character elements by pinning and transforming poses like a for fluid adjustments. data import via BVH files supports applying real-world movements to 3D figures, facilitating mid-action pose references without manual keyframing. The head model was simplified and expanded with VRM file support for customizable facial expressions, enabling easier creation of expressive 3D characters compatible with animation sequences. For , Clip Studio Paint employs a cel-based timeline system where users frames using layers for individual elements, supporting onion skinning to view semi-transparent previous and next frames for smooth motion transitions. A light table feature overlays multiple frames or reference images, aiding in consistent drawing across sequences, while animation curves and keyframes allow precise control over transformations. Export options include , MP4 video files, and image sequences, with audio import capabilities added in later versions to synchronize sound with visuals. Lip-sync tools, enhanced in Version 4.0, permit importing audio recordings as layers to align mouth movements with dialogue, streamlining short-form video production on both desktop and mobile. Camera movement controls, introduced and refined starting from Version 2.0, include keyframe-based panning, zooming, and rotation, with filters like lens blur for cinematic effects. Multi-timeline support enables managing complex scenes with multiple tracks for characters, backgrounds, and effects, though advanced features are restricted to the EX edition, while PRO and DEBUT versions limit animations to 24 frames (3 seconds at 8 fps). Layer compositing from the illustration tools can be briefly referenced here for blending animated 3D elements with 2D overlays.

Input methods and shortcuts

Clip Studio Paint supports multiple methods for undoing and redoing actions, varying by input device and platform. On touch-enabled devices such as the iPad, the default gesture for undoing the most recent action is a two-finger tap on the canvas, while redoing an undone action uses a three-finger tap. These touch gestures are customizable in the application's Preferences under the Touch Gestures section. Dedicated undo and redo buttons are available on the Command Bar for direct access. When using an external keyboard, the default shortcuts are Ctrl+Z for undo and Ctrl+Y for redo, which can be customized through the Shortcut Settings accessible from the application menu.

Editions and licensing

Available versions

Clip Studio Paint is offered in three primary editions: Debut, Pro, and EX, designed to accommodate users ranging from beginners to professionals in digital illustration, , and . The Debut edition serves as an entry-level option, providing essential tools for basic artwork creation at no cost. It limits users to canvases up to 10,000 × 10,000 pixels, up to 24 animation frames, and excludes multi-page management, custom sub-tool creation, advanced text and tools, and full 3D model integration (with some functions unavailable); this makes it ideal for hobbyists and newcomers experimenting with core drawing features like pens, brushes, and basic layers. The Pro edition builds on Debut by expanding capabilities for single-page focused work, supporting high-resolution canvases up to system limits (typically up to 50,000 × 50,000 pixels), with access to all tools including 3D model import and use, rulers, filters, material registration, and workspace switching. However, it retains the 24-frame limit and lacks multi-page story editing or advanced collaboration features, positioning it as a suitable choice for individual artists and illustrators handling detailed single compositions or short animations. In contrast, the EX edition unlocks the full suite for professional workflows, offering unlimited animation frames, multi-page and management (including page numbering and spreads), layer comps, export, advanced teamwork tools, and enhanced 3D deformation for posing and layout. It supports larger-scale projects up to system limits, catering to creators, animators, and studios requiring comprehensive production tools. All editions are available across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, , , Android, and , though feature parity varies—desktop versions offer complete functionality, while mobile and tablet apps may have reduced performance for complex tasks like high-resolution canvases or extensive animations. As of March 2025, the major release is version 4.0, with subsequent patches updating all editions to version 4.1.4 by September 2025, ensuring consistent improvements in stability and tools across the lineup.
FeatureDebutProEX
Canvas Size LimitUp to 10,000 × 10,000 pxUp to system limits (typically 50,000 × 50,000 px)Up to system limits (typically 50,000 × 50,000 px)
Animation FramesUp to 24Up to 24Unlimited
Multi-Page SupportNoNo (single-page only)Yes (full editor)
3D ToolsLimited (some functions unavailable)Import/use modelsImport/use + deformation
Target UsersBeginners/hobbyistsIndividual artists/illustratorsProfessionals/comic animators

Pricing models

Clip Studio Paint offers several pricing models to accommodate different user needs, including perpetual licenses, subscription plans, and add-on options for updates, with a free entry-level edition available. Perpetual licenses provide one-time purchases for the PRO and EX versions, granting indefinite access to the purchased version's features without ongoing fees, though major updates require additional purchases or passes. As of March 2025, the perpetual license for Clip Studio Paint PRO Ver. 4.0 is priced at US$58.50, while the EX version is US$258.00; these apply to Windows and macOS installations and include the initial version's features but not future major releases. Subscription plans allow users to access the latest features, , and bonus materials on a recurring basis, with options for single- or dual-device use across platforms like Windows, macOS, , and smartphones. New subscribers receive the first three months free, after which payments begin. For PRO, the single-device monthly plan costs or annually, while the dual-device equivalent is monthly or annually. EX subscriptions are higher, at monthly or annually for single-device, providing full access to advanced tools like multi-page workflows and during the active period; upon expiration, access reverts to a free limited mode unless renewed. During the subscription checkout process, users are required to enter a shipping address to calculate applicable sales tax, VAT, or other regional taxes based on the customer's location, even though the product is digital and no physical shipping occurs. This is a standard practice for many digital subscription services to comply with tax regulations. If the billing address differs from the shipping address, users can enter their billing address in the shipping field. Perpetual license owners can maintain access to new major versions through the Clip Studio Paint Update Pass, an annual add-on priced at US$10.99 for PRO and US$31.99 for EX, which enables use of the latest features without a full upgrade; it expires after 12 months, reverting the software to the original version. Discounts are available for upgrades from prior perpetual versions—for instance, owners of Ver. 3.0 can upgrade to Ver. 4.0 at reduced rates such as US$24.99 for PRO or US$71.99 for EX—and educational or enterprise bundles offer volume licensing at lowered prices for institutions. A free edition, Clip Studio Paint DEBUT, provides basic functionality with no ongoing costs but limited features compared to paid versions, such as restricted page counts and no advanced export options; it serves as an entry point for beginners without requiring payment.
Pricing ModelPROEXNotes
Perpetual (Ver. 4.0, one-time)$58.50$258.00Windows/macOS; includes initial version only.
Subscription (Single-Device, Monthly)$4.49$8.99First 3 months free; includes updates and 10GB .
Subscription (Single-Device, Annual)$26.99$76.99Savings vs. monthly; bonus materials included.
Update Pass (Annual Add-On)$10.99$31.99For perpetual owners; access to latest major version.
Free EditionDEBUT (limited features)N/ANo cost; basic tools only.

Reception

Critical reviews

Clip Studio Paint has received widespread acclaim from professional reviewers for its specialized tools tailored to manga and comic creation, often highlighted as a standout alternative to more general-purpose software like . In a 2025 review, Creative Bloq praised its templates, panel guides, and vector layers as ideal for comic and manga artists, awarding it high marks for tools and features while noting its affordability compared to Photoshop's subscription model. The software's full brush engine, with strong pen pressure detection for natural drawing on graphics tablets, has been lauded for enabling comic-style workflows more efficiently than competitors, earning it an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 65 verified users on , who frequently cite the vast array of customizable brushes as a key strength. Similarly, G2 reports an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 across 55 reviews, with users emphasizing its superior brush variety and community-shared assets for illustration and . The software's animation capabilities have also drawn positive evaluations, particularly for frame-by-frame tools and mobile support, which reviewers describe as excellent for integrating with production pipelines. In terms of recognition, Clip Studio Paint won Google Play's "Best for Large Screens" award in 2024, commended for its intuitive on tablets and its seamless handling of expansive canvases for . Industry reports have repeatedly listed it among top digital art tools, reflecting its high-impact adoption by professionals in and . Critics have pointed to a steep as a notable drawback, especially for newcomers tackling its extensive feature set and non-intuitive interface, which can require significant time to master despite available tutorials. workflows, in particular, present challenges for users transitioning from simpler tools, with some reviews noting the complexity of timeline and tool customization. issues on lower-end hardware have also been flagged, including occasional crashes and lag when handling large files or complex layers, though many users report smooth operation on capable systems. The release of Version 4.0 in March 2025 elicited mixed responses, with acclaim for its enhanced 3D integration—such as drawing directly on 3D primitives, shadow casting between models, and support for STL, BVH, and VRM file formats—positioning it as a more robust tool for scene composition and posing in and . The new puppet warp tool, allowing users to pin and transform selections for dynamic pose adjustments, was highlighted as a game-changer for efficient character manipulation without redrawing. However, some critiques noted ongoing stability concerns in features, with reports of fluidity issues in tool responsiveness echoing broader performance feedback.

Community and contests

Clip Studio Paint fosters a vibrant user through official platforms and resources that support learning, sharing, and collaboration. The Clip Studio Assets marketplace serves as a central hub where users upload and download over 100,000 user-created items, including brushes, 3D models, and templates, available both for free and purchase. This ecosystem enables artists to customize their workflows with community-contributed materials tailored for , , and . Support resources include the official Clip Studio Tips portal, which offers text and video tutorials ranging from beginner guides to advanced techniques, and the CLIP STUDIO ASK Q&A forum for troubleshooting and peer assistance. Additionally, Celsys hosts webinars, such as the April 2025 overview of Version 4.0 features, updates, and improvements, to demonstrate new tools and best practices. The subreddit r/ClipStudio, with over 100,000 members, provides an active space for discussions on updates, workflows, and creative challenges. Celsys organizes annual International Illustration Contests to encourage , with the 44th edition in 2025 themed "Flowers & " receiving over 4,360 entries worldwide; winners were announced in August 2025, with the grand prize of US$2,000 plus a three-year Clip Studio Paint EX . These events highlight user engagement and showcase diverse applications of the software. Professional artists, including those associated with Shueisha's Shonen Jump, praise Clip Studio Paint for its workflow efficiency in digital production; for instance, Shueisha's editorial department conducted seminars for new artists on using the software for creation. The software integrates into educational settings through volume for schools and enterprise solutions for studios, enabling collaborative teaching and professional team use.

References

Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.