The backlash against AI-generated art is forcing digital artists to rethink their techniques, embracing rough edges and visible brush marks. This shift not only helps them avoid accusations of using AI but also opens doors for experimenting with old-school aesthetics.

Software like Procreate and Rebelle 8.3 are pushing boundaries by simulating traditional painting methods, offering brushes that mimic the unpredictability of real-world tools. Artists can now add scanned textures or create their own overlays to inject a sense of authenticity into their digital creations.

To achieve this messy, traditional feel, artists should start with what they already have. Procreate's existing libraries offer plenty of rough and expressive marks. Rebelle's Bristle Brushes are particularly worth investigating for that authentic paint behaviour. Making your own texture library from everyday objects can provide unique elements not found in standard software.

By consciously avoiding smoothing every line, artists can add personality to their work. Physical alterations such as printing a piece, drawing over it, and scanning it back into the digital workflow can also bring a grubby, tactile quality that enhances the artwork's character. The ability to smudge with fingers on screen in Procreate mirrors traditional methods perfectly.