5 Practical Ways to Trace Pictures Like a Pro

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 6 min read

Tracing pictures can be an enjoyable activity and a great way to improve your drawing skills. With the right tools and techniques, you can start creating your own masterpieces in no time. In this blog, we'll discuss five practical ways to trace pictures like a pro, starting with choosing the right tools.

1. Choose the Right Tools

Using the right tools is crucial for successfully tracing pictures. Let's explore some of the most common and useful tools for tracing:

A lightbox is a flat, illuminated surface that makes tracing pictures much easier. By placing the picture to trace on top of the lightbox and your drawing paper above it, you can clearly see the lines and details of the image as you trace. Lightboxes come in various sizes and prices, so you can choose one that suits your needs and budget.

Tracing Paper

Tracing paper is a type of semi-transparent paper that allows you to see the picture you're tracing through it. It's an affordable and versatile option for tracing pictures. When using tracing paper, place it on top of the image you want to trace and secure it with tape or a paper clip to prevent it from shifting.

Pencils and Pens

Selecting the right pencils and pens for tracing pictures can make a big difference in the quality of your work. For detailed and precise lines, consider using a mechanical pencil or a fine-tipped pen. If you prefer a more organic and sketchy look, a regular graphite pencil or a charcoal pencil might be a better choice. Don't forget to keep an eraser handy to fix any mistakes along the way.

Now that you have the right tools, it's time to master the techniques to trace pictures like a pro.

2. Master the Tracing Techniques

There are various techniques for tracing pictures, each with its own advantages and challenges. By practicing and mastering these techniques, you'll be well on your way to creating impressive traced artwork. Let's take a look at three popular tracing techniques:

Freehand Tracing

Freehand tracing is the most basic and straightforward technique, suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike. Simply place your drawing paper over the picture to trace and follow the lines with your chosen pencil or pen. This technique helps you develop your hand-eye coordination and drawing skills. Remember to start with lighter, more gentle strokes, and gradually build up pressure as you become more confident with the lines.

Using Grids

Grids can be a helpful tool for breaking down complex pictures into smaller, more manageable sections. To use this technique, draw a grid with equal squares on both the picture to trace and your drawing paper. Focus on recreating the lines and shapes within each individual square, one at a time. This method is especially useful for maintaining accurate proportions and scaling up or down the size of the picture you're tracing.

Transfer Paper Method

Transfer paper, also known as graphite paper, is a specially coated paper that transfers lines from the picture to trace onto your drawing surface. Place the transfer paper between the image and your drawing paper, with the coated side facing down. Trace the lines of the picture using a stylus or a ballpoint pen, and the pressure will transfer the graphite onto your drawing paper. This technique is ideal for transferring intricate details, and it saves you the trouble of erasing unwanted lines from tracing paper.

With these techniques in your arsenal, it's time to practice with some simple images and hone your tracing skills.

3. Practice with Simple Images

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Starting with simple images is an excellent way to build your tracing abilities and gain confidence. Here are three types of images that are perfect for practicing your tracing techniques:

Shapes and Lines

Begin by tracing basic shapes and lines to familiarize yourself with the tools and techniques you've learned. Geometric shapes, such as circles, squares, and triangles, are great for practicing smooth lines and angles. As you become more comfortable with tracing, move on to more complex shapes like stars, hearts, and spirals. This will help you develop a steady hand and a good eye for detail.

Cartoon Characters

Cartoon characters often have simple, bold lines and distinctive features, making them ideal pictures to trace for beginners. Choose your favorite cartoon character, and pay attention to the character's unique expressions and poses. Tracing these characters will not only help you improve your tracing skills but also teach you about character design and the importance of line quality.

Iconic Landmarks

Tracing pictures of famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty, can be a fun and rewarding challenge. These landmarks often have distinctive silhouettes and architectural details that will test your tracing abilities. Start with the simpler outlines of the landmarks, and gradually add more details as you gain confidence. This practice will help you improve your precision and understanding of perspective.

With consistent practice using simple images, you'll soon be ready to take on more complex pictures to trace and expand your artistic horizons.

4. Learn from the Pros

Learning from experienced artists and illustrators can greatly enhance your tracing skills and broaden your artistic knowledge. You don't need to reinvent the wheel — seek out the wisdom of those who have already mastered the art of tracing. Here are three ways to learn from the pros:

Watch Tutorials

Online video tutorials are a fantastic resource for learning new tracing techniques and tips. Search for tutorials on platforms like YouTube, where professional artists share their expertise in tracing and other art disciplines. Pay attention to their techniques, and don't be afraid to pause and replay parts of the video as you practice alongside them. Watching and learning from these experts will help you refine your approach to tracing pictures.

Attend Workshops

Workshops and art classes offer hands-on learning experiences where you can receive direct feedback from experienced artists. Look for local workshops or art classes that focus on the tracing techniques you're interested in mastering. These workshops often provide opportunities to practice with different tools and materials, helping you find the best fit for your tracing style. Additionally, you'll have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for tracing and art.

Join Online Communities

Engaging with online art communities can be an excellent way to learn from others and gain inspiration for your own tracing work. Platforms like Reddit, DeviantArt, and various art forums are home to countless artists who share their work and provide feedback to others. By joining these communities, you can ask questions, share your own pictures to trace, and learn from the experiences of others.

By learning from the pros, you'll not only improve your tracing skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for the art world and its many nuances.

5. Challenge Yourself

As with any skill, practice makes perfect in the world of tracing. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and exploring new artistic challenges can accelerate your growth and help you become a more versatile artist. Here are three ways to challenge yourself and take your tracing skills to the next level:

Try Different Mediums

Experimenting with various mediums can introduce you to new techniques and approaches for tracing pictures. While you may be comfortable with pencils and pens, don't be afraid to explore other mediums like charcoal, pastels, or even digital tools like graphic tablets. Each medium offers its unique challenges and rewards, helping you develop a more well-rounded skill set as an artist.

Create Your Own Art

Although tracing is an excellent way to learn and practice, it's also important to exercise your creativity by creating original artwork. Use the skills you've developed from tracing to create your own drawings or paintings. This will not only help you grow as an artist but also give you a greater sense of accomplishment when you see your own creations come to life.

Participate in Art Challenges

Art challenges, such as Inktober or the 100 Day Project, encourage artists to create new pieces daily for a set period. These challenges can be a fun and effective way to hone your tracing skills while also working on your creativity and discipline. Look for challenges that align with your interests and goals, and don't be afraid to adapt them to focus on tracing pictures.

By challenging yourself and embracing new artistic experiences, you'll continue to grow and refine your tracing skills, ultimately becoming a more accomplished and versatile artist.

If you're interested in taking your handmade illustrations to the digital world, check out the workshop 'Digitising Handmade Illustrations' by Jola Pictures. This workshop will provide you with the skills and techniques needed to transform your traditional artwork into digital masterpieces.