Projectors + Transfer Methods

I use two methods to get accurate and quick sketches for paintings. There are PROS/CONS to each.

Quick overview of the two:

Carbon Copy Method:

• Gets exact proportions FAST

• Best for sizes that can be printed.

• For sizes at 8' x 10'. (I print larger scale at Staples, or similar stores).

• Great if you HATE technology

• Easy for any age!

• Awesome if you don’t have access to electricity or computer

• Gets exact proportions FAST

Projection Method:

• Best for larger paintings or murals.

• Can adjust size and composition on the fly

• Great if you don’t have a printer or are working remotely

• Can be faster (no need for fixative)

• requires tech

• I am using EPSON VS260

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  Materials

• Support (fabric stretched panel) or canvas

• Vine Charcoal / Charcoal Powder

• Print out of reference photo

• tape

• ball-point pen

• pencil

• eraser (kneaded eraser preferred)

optional materials:

• projector

• Red acrylic paint (I’m using Napthol Red)

STEPS:

This is the process if you would like your fabric to show through. If you are not doing that, skip to STEP 3.

• Step 1: Sketch outline of reference using projector or tracing reference photo with carbon copy method (Step 3-4).

• Step 2: Paint your subject using Red Acrylic paint.

• Step 3: Rub Vine Charcoal on the back of printed reference photo.

Tip : use black and white print out to save ink. If you’re sending this to a printer, print ONE in b/w and ONE in color.

Coat the entire back of the page and tape it to your painting.

• Step 4: Trace with pen. Pressing lightly over the major contours of the face and any relevant visual information.

Tip: lift your printed image to make sure your lines are visible on your painting. If you’re projecting,

• Step 5: Ta-da!

tip: Erase any errant lines with kneaded eraser.

• Step 6: Spray fixative OUTDOORS horizontal and vertical on panel. Let it dry outdoors for 30-60 minutes. It’s ready to paint on!