If there’s one thing I’ve learned juggling crochet projects, digital designs, and content creation—it’s that inspiration doesn’t wait for a comfy seat or a full setup. Sometimes that great idea for a sketch or colour palette hits when I’m curled up with the dogs, waiting for files to export, or just too warm to sit at the desk. That’s where a solid art app on your Android device becomes an absolute lifesaver.
So whether you’re a crafter, a casual doodler, or diving into digital art for real, here are my top 5 free Android art apps that I’ve used and loved—each with its own strengths depending on how you like to create!
1. HiPaint
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists who want a quick and flexible sketching experience
HiPaint might not have the name recognition of other apps, but it’s a hidden gem. It’s lightweight and clean, perfect for grabbing your phone and quickly throwing down an idea. You still get multiple layers, a good brush variety, liquify, and a UI that won’t overwhelm newcomers.
I’ve used HiPaint for concept art sketches and even little practice doodles while waiting for files to upload or render. It doesn’t slow your phone down and feels responsive whether you’re using a stylus or just your fingers.
💡 Lizitip: Use it as a “sketchbook on the go” before transferring to a desktop app or more layered project.
2. Ibis Paint X
Best for: Digital illustration, manga-style art, and anyone who wants loads of control
Ibis Paint X is jam-packed with professional tools—over 300 brushes, 1000+ fonts, tone screens, filters, and full layer support. There are rulers for perspective drawing, real-time stroke stabilization (super useful when drawing with fingers), and even a social side where you can watch other artists’ speedpaints.
Whether I’m sketching out new product designs for my Etsy shop or just playing around with colour palettes, this app handles it all beautifully.
💡 Lizitip: If you’re into manga or stylised art, this app shines with its screentone and text tools.
3. Sketchbook by Autodesk
Best for: Artists who love traditional sketching, clean UI, and no-fuss drawing
Autodesk Sketchbook used to be a premium app—but now it’s completely free and packed with high-quality tools. It offers a natural drawing experience with pencil, marker, and paint tools that just feel right. The symmetry tools, brush customization, and professional layering features make it great for polished pieces or casual sketching.
I love using it to map out ideas for future crochet shapes or sticker designs, especially when I want the freedom to mess around without overthinking layers and tools. My main downside with the app is the lack of a liquify tool which helps tidy drawings up.
💡 Lizitip: The interface disappears while you draw, so it feels like drawing on paper—great for focused work.
4. MediBang Paint
Best for: Comic artists, manga lovers, and anyone who works across devices
MediBang Paint is like a portable digital studio. It’s geared towards comic creators but also has all the tools you’d expect from a pro-level drawing app—custom brushes, comic panel tools, cloud saves, and even free fonts.
What I really appreciate is how well it works between phone, tablet, and desktop. You can start something on your mobile and finish it on your PC without stress. I’ve not used this much aside initial testing, but so far it looks like a good option.
💡 Lizitip: Their comic creation templates are great even for non-comic artists who like organised layouts.
5. Krita (Android Beta)
Best for: Advanced users, detailed illustrations, and painting with full control
Okay, Krita is technically still in beta on Android, and it works best on larger screens or tablets—but if you want full control and pro-level tools, this is the one. Krita is an open-source favourite among digital painters and illustrators, offering advanced brush engines, HDR painting support, full layer effects, and animation tools.
I don’t always use Krita when I’m casually sketching, but when I’m creating something with intent—like prepping art for my fantasy-themed crochet pattern covers or web graphics—it’s my go-to.
💡 Lizitip: Works best on Android tablets with a stylus, but worth trying if you’re serious about your digital art!
Why These Apps Matter for Makers Like Us
I’m a big believer in making your tools work for you. Between crafting, blogging, and designing, I never know when an idea will hit, and being able to quickly sketch out something—even just a vibe or colour idea—is a massive help.
Having access to powerful, free art tools on Android helps me stay creative no matter where I am—especially useful when working in both physical and digital mediums like I do!
🎨 Final Thoughts
You don’t need to drop loads of money to get started with digital art. These apps are free, versatile, and give you the power to create wherever you are. Whether you’re creating pet portraits, designing new crochet patterns, or just having a bit of doodle fun—there’s something here for everyone.
💬 Got a favourite I didn’t mention? Drop a comment or tag me—I’d love to try it out!
🔗 Explore more:
🌐 liziloulovecraft.co.uk
🛍️ liziloulovecraft.etsy.com
📲 Follow me everywhere @liziloulovecraft (lizloulovecraft on twitter/x)
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