Sketchar is a drawing app used for learning to draw and creating digital art. It's a pretty cool tool that I found on Google Play a while back. The app launched a few years back and has been updated regularly. You can download it from both Google Play and the Apple App Store. On Google Play, it has over 10 million installs, which shows a lot of people are using it. The app is free to install, which is great for trying it out. You don't need to register right away to use some basic features, but making an account helps save your progress. There are in-app purchases if you want to unlock more advanced lessons and tools. You might also see some ads in the free version, but they're not too intrusive.

Using Sketchar is straightforward. I open the app, choose a drawing from the library or upload a photo. The app then uses augmented reality to project the image's outline onto my paper or screen through my phone's camera. I just trace over the lines. It's like having a guide right in front of you. For digital drawing, I use my finger or a stylus directly on the screen. A simple tip is to make sure you have good lighting when using the AR feature so the projection is clear. Another tip is to start with the beginner lessons; they really help you get the hang of the tools. I use it mostly for practicing sketches when I have some free time. It feels less intimidating than a blank page because the guide is there.

Compared to other learn-to-draw apps, Sketchar feels more hands-on because of the AR feature. Apps like 'How to Draw - Easy Lessons' focus more on step-by-step video instructions. While that's good, Sketchar lets you physically trace, which I find better for muscle memory. Another popular one is 'Adobe Fresco,' which is more for professional digital painting. Sketchar is simpler and more focused on learning and sketching. I chose Sketchar because the AR part is unique and fun. It makes the learning process feel like a game. Also, the community aspect where you can share your drawings is nice. It's not as complex as some professional apps, which is actually why I prefer it for casual practice.

• 🎯 The main function is AR drawing. You place your phone over paper, and it projects an image for you to trace. This is different from apps that only show a video. It feels like you're really drawing with a guide.
• 🎯 It has structured drawing courses. These are step-by-step lessons that teach specific skills. Other apps might just have random images. Here, the lessons build on each other, which is more helpful for learning.
• 🎯 There's a digital canvas for creating art from scratch. You get layers, brushes, and colors. Compared to a basic app like 'Sketchbook,' it integrates the learning lessons directly into the creation space.
• 🎯 A social feature lets you share your art and see others' work. This creates a community. Many similar apps are solitary, but here you can get inspired by what other users are drawing and learning.

• 👍 The AR tracing feature is its biggest strength. It's incredibly intuitive for beginners. Other drawing apps don't offer this hands-on guided physical practice, making Sketchar stand out for foundational skill-building.
• 👍 The lesson structure is very clear and progressive. It feels like a proper course. Compared to more disjointed tutorial apps, the path from beginner to more advanced concepts is well-organized and easy to follow.
• 👍 The app is very accessible. Being free to download with a large library of initial content lowers the barrier to entry. Many professional alternatives require a subscription or large upfront payment just to start.

• ⚠️ The AR can be finicky. It requires a very steady hand and good lighting. Other apps that use simple on-screen tracing don't have this hardware dependency, making them more reliable in different conditions.
• ⚠️ Some advanced tools are locked behind a paywall. While understandable, it can feel limiting compared to apps that offer a one-time purchase for all features. The free version has noticeable ads.