by Mistress Guendolen » Mon Dec 26, 2005 2:22 pm
I've found it actually helps to trace the image. Here's my method. I currently use a picture frame as a light board; you need smooth, plain glass with no warping, variations, etc. An unused window pane works, too. Brace it in your lap, with a flashlight under it. Then you anchor the paper together with paper clips- minimum two, though best is four, as that's one per corner. You need to do this to keep the paper from sliding on you. Then, just trace. Gets rid of all the spare lines and erasing smears and what not. I always trace images prior to making the finished product. It's great for inking and Photoshopping, though even if you use another method, it still works. Plus, as a side bonus, it means your original will go unchanged, in case you make some sort of irreversible mistake on the later stages.