From sketch to vectors, which method do you use?

[NeroInferno]

Hello!
I need to convert some sketches to vectors.

I've tried to scan the sketch to 300DPI and import it into Photoshop, add a new layer and trace the outlines with the Brush Tool, with a graphic tablet. Then when I've traced everything I delete the sketch layer and export the traced image into Illustrator, applying Live Trace, to convert the dark outlines to vectors, but the result pratically sucks. At least the Live Trace in CS2.

Then I've tried to trace totally with the Pen tool in Illustrator the outlines, but the final vectors aren't so smooth like the Brush tool in Photoshop does.

I've also tried to trace with the graphic tablet all the outlines directly in Illustrator, using the brush tool, but nothing..it doesn't seem to "follow" the lines like it should do, and the result isn't good to me.

Any suggestion please? Which method do you use?

Thanks!
Fabio

[Casey Burns]

ink the drawing by hand. scan to photoshop. adjust with threshold.
save.
place in illustrator. live trace, tweaking all the settings until you get a good one.
i've never had any trouble with live trace in CS2. it's pretty amazing.

[NeroInferno]

mhmh...if Live Trace doesn't convert well pure black brush how can convert a scanned image!?

Just curious mate

Thanks for the reply!
Fabio

[Ruthless Cow]

Then I've tried to trace totally with the Pen tool in Illustrator the outlines, but the final vectors aren't so smooth like the Brush tool in Photoshop does.

I can't think of why the lines would be less smooth in Illustrator - Do you have examples you can show us?

I think maybe you could just practice using the pen and brush tools in Illustrator more to get the smoothness you want. A lot of artists who use Illustrator create custom brushes - maybe you should look for more tips and techniques online.

[NeroInferno]

I can't think of why the lines would be less smooth in Illustrator - Do you have examples you can show us?

Actually no sorry.

I think maybe you could just practice using the pen and brush tools in Illustrator more to get the smoothness you want. A lot of artists who use Illustrator create custom brushes - maybe you should look for more tips and techniques online.

Mhmh, perhaps the only way to achieve SUPERB lines and effects is to trace with the pen tools the entire outlines and then apply some brushes..

Thanks for the suggestion.

Come on people, show your secrets
Fabio

[Ruthless Cow]

I think Casey is suggesting you might benefit from playing with the settings more. Personally I prefer creating vectors myself, but in a pinch I've used the live trace feature with good results.

[NeroInferno]

I think Casey is suggesting you might benefit from playing with the settings more. Personally I prefer creating vectors myself, but in a pinch I've used the live trace feature with good results.

I'd like to acquire a standerad method to convert sketches into vectors, with very good results!

thanks,
Fabio

[S.Blake]

I've been tracing vectors for 12 years 7 days a week.. the only TRUE way to achieve perfection is to manually do it. Familiarize your self with the keyboard shortcuts!

With that said, CS live trace is pretty fucking awesome!

[Casey Burns]

show us one of the sketches.

[NeroInferno]

I've been tracing vectors for 12 years 7 days a week.. the only TRUE way to achieve perfection is to manually do it. Familiarize your self with the keyboard shortcuts!

With that said, CS live trace is pretty fucking awesome!

Hello Blake,
thanks for your answer!

Okay, can I post a little sketck and can you trace a very little part of the sketch so I can vectorially see it?

Thanks!