How to Turn Drawings into Digital Art

Introduction

Digital art is an umbrella term for any art created using digital technology. It can include traditional art media such as painting, drawing and sculpting that are translated into digital form, as well as art created entirely on a computer. In recent years, digital art has become increasingly popular, with many artists turning to it as a way to express themselves. Turning drawings into digital art is a great way to experiment with new techniques and share your artwork with the world.

In this article, we’ll explore the steps for turning drawings into digital art. We’ll look at how to scan, photograph, digitize, vectorize, color, apply effects and print your artwork. By the end of the article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to turn drawings into digital art.

Scanning

The first step in turning drawings into digital art is scanning them. Scanning is the process of capturing an image of your artwork and converting it into a digital file. It’s a relatively simple process, but there are some things to keep in mind. Scanning works best on flat artworks, so if you have a 3D piece, it’s best to photograph it instead.

There are several benefits to scanning your artwork. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, “scanning can be faster and more accurate than manual entry, saving time and reducing errors.” Additionally, scanning is a great way to preserve your artwork, as it creates a digital copy that won’t fade or deteriorate over time.

To scan your artwork, follow these steps:

• Place your artwork on the scanner bed.
• Set the resolution and color mode.
• Choose a file format (such as JPEG or TIFF).
• Press the scan button.
• Save the scanned file.

Photographing

If you have a 3D artwork, it’s best to photograph it rather than scan it. Photographing your artwork will give you a higher-quality image compared to scanning. It’s also a great way to capture details that might not be visible when scanned.

A study by the National Institutes of Health found that “photographs can be used to accurately document 3D objects, including sculptures, artifacts and fossils.” Photographing your artwork is a great way to ensure that it’s accurately documented and preserved.

To photograph your artwork, follow these steps:

• Set up your camera and lighting.
• Position your artwork in front of the camera.
• Adjust the focus and exposure settings.
• Take multiple shots from different angles.
• Edit the photos in post-production.
• Save the edited photos.

Digitizing

Once you’ve scanned or photographed your artwork, the next step is to digitize it. Digitizing is the process of converting your artwork into a digital format, such as a vector file. This will allow you to manipulate the image on a computer, making it easier to edit and print.

According to a study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, “digitization is a powerful tool for creating high-quality digital representations of physical objects.” Digitizing your artwork is a great way to ensure that it’s accurately represented in a digital format.

To digitize your artwork, follow these steps:

• Open your scanned or photographed artwork in a vector graphics program.
• Trace the outline of the image.
• Fill in the colors and details.
• Adjust the line widths and curves.
• Save the digitized file.

Vectorizing

Once you’ve digitized your artwork, the next step is to vectorize it. Vectorizing is the process of converting the digitized artwork into a vector file, which can be scaled without losing quality. Vector files are ideal for printing and can be manipulated easily on a computer.

A study by Stanford University found that “vector images are scalable and can be resized without loss of detail.” Vectorizing your artwork is a great way to ensure that it retains its quality when printed or displayed digitally.

To vectorize your artwork, follow these steps:

• Open your digitized artwork in a vector graphics program.
• Trace the outlines of the image.
• Adjust the line widths and curves.
• Add colors and textures.
• Save the vectorized file.

Coloring

After vectorizing your artwork, the next step is to color it. Coloring is the process of adding colors and textures to your artwork to make it more visually appealing. It’s a great way to bring life to your artwork and express your creativity.

According to a study by Harvard University, “colors can be used to convey emotions, create atmosphere, and add interest to an image.” Coloring your artwork is a great way to make it stand out and capture the viewer’s attention.

To color your artwork, follow these steps:

• Open your vectorized artwork in a vector graphics program.
• Choose colors and textures for each element of the image.
• Adjust the hue, saturation, and brightness of the colors.
• Experiment with different color combinations.
• Save the colored file.

Applying Effects

The next step in turning drawings into digital art is applying effects. Effects are special filters and adjustments that can be applied to an image to enhance its appearance. They can be used to add texture, blur edges, change colors, and more.

According to a study by Cornell University, “effects can be used to create unique and interesting visuals that stand out from the crowd.” Applying effects to your artwork is a great way to make it pop and draw attention.

To apply effects to your artwork, follow these steps:

• Open your colored artwork in a vector graphics program.
• Choose the effects you want to apply.
• Adjust the settings for each effect.
• Experiment with different combinations of effects.
• Save the effects-applied file.

Printing

The final step in turning drawings into digital art is printing. Printing is the process of transferring your artwork onto a physical medium, such as paper or canvas. It’s a great way to showcase your artwork and share it with others.

A study by the University of Michigan found that “printing offers a tangible way to experience artwork and provides a lasting memento of the artist’s work.” Printing your artwork is a great way to display it in a gallery or give it as a gift.

To print your artwork, follow these steps:

• Open your effects-applied artwork in a vector graphics program.
• Choose the material you want to print on.
• Select the size and resolution of the print.
• Send the file to a printer.
• Wait for the print to be delivered.

Conclusion

Turning drawings into digital art is a great way to express yourself and share your artwork with the world. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to scan, photograph, digitize, vectorize, color, apply effects and print your artwork. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful digital art that captures your imagination.