Microsoft Garage's SketchPal combines modern inking with classic layers

What you need to know

  • SketchPal, a new sketching app, is now available from Microsoft Garage.
  • The app focuses on using touch and pen input to create artwork on the go.
  • The app is available for free through the Microsoft Store.

The Microsoft Garage provides a space for Microsoft employees to create and grow projects. Microsoft Launcher is probably the Microsoft Garage's best-known success story, but it has a wide range of apps and projects in it. Now, the Microsoft Garage has released another project, SketchPal, a sketching app that focuses on using touch and pen inputs to create artwork. The app is available for free through the Microsoft Store starting today.

Arcadio Garcia, the man behind SketchPal, announced the app's availability and shared some insights regarding the app on Twitter. One of his Tweets emphasizes how SketchPal focuses on touch and pen input.

Garcia points out that SketchPal works well with smaller Windows 10 devices like the Surface Go and will also fit naturally on the upcoming Surface Neo. The app has a reference mode that makes it easy to have a reference image next to a sketch. That mode was inspired by Garcia trying out a dual-screen device.

In terms of features, SketchPal supports touch, pen, tilt support for pens, Surface Dial integration, and support for multiple screens.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.