Common Sense Media Review
By Megan Leppla
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Beautifully designed digital sketchbook fosters creativity.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Download
What's It About?
PAPER BY FIFTYTHREE is a digital sketchbook, full of powerful tools to create beautiful illustrations. You'll begin with a brief tutorial and then get started drawing. There are no buttons, and the emphasis on touch features makes for an intuitive design. Sketches are stored in sketchbooks that sit neatly on a shelf; once your book is full you can start a new one. You can share your creations via Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, or email or save them to your camera roll. The drawing tool is free, but unlocking the additional tools (mix, color, write, outline, and sketch) will cost you $1.99 each. Although all the creating can be done with your finger, there is the option to purchase Paper's aptly named stylus, Pencil (ranging from $59.95-74.95).
Is It Any Good?
The tools are all so responsive and intuitive that it's possible to teach basic drawing and painting techniques using Paper. The harder you push, the thicker your lines. Layer your paint to create darker values of color, and use the mixer to create new colors. Create multiple illustrations, fill up your sketchbook, and start a new one. Paper is full of potential as a productivity tool. Kids can use it to brainstorm ideas, sketch out a story line, or take notes. The versatility makes it easy to join arts and productivity while utilizing digital tools -- talk about a power combo!
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about colors: Which ones mix together well? How can you use layering techniques to add value to existing colors?
Practice drawing techniques using a stylus or your finger.
Use your digital sketchbook as a journal.
App Details
- Devices : iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad
- Subjects : Arts : drawing
- Skills : Creativity : making new creations , producing new content
- Pricing structure : Free
- Release date : March 31, 2014
- Genre : Productivity
- Topics : Arts
- Publisher : FiftyThree
- Version : 3.6.8
- Minimum software requirements : iOS 8.0 or higher
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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