Hand Drawn Designs Using Protractor and Ruler~ Then turning them into Projects (2 versions here)

In this step I simply pulled out my rulers, protractors and sketch pad.  You will notice I still need to work a bit at getting my lines straight.  :-)

Starting in the middle I designed circles and diamonds an incorporated them into the artwork.

Due to the nature of graphite it smears on the page.  No matter how good your lighting is you will get a grey background when you import the photo of your drawing.

Use an editing software (I used Procreate on my iPad) and reduced the opacity of the background as light as I could without losing definition from my design.

Save that file.  Then using the import tool upload the project.

For A:  at this point you will want to select the item and use “Sketch” in the filter menu.    Once you have done that you are ready to set your parameters and process.  

For B:  You will move to the following steps.

Use a photo editing software ( again I used Procreate for my iPad) you will trace this image.  The steps to accomplish this will vary depending on the software.

In Procreate create another layer choose your brush and trace your design.  Yes, it may take awhile based on your detail in the design.  But for a darker engrave, and I am guessing as I haven't tried it, a more efficient way to separate your engrave . and cut lines.  

Once you have completed your tracing save the file without the original drawing underneath.

Import the photo into XCS.

In my experience I always end up with a grey background when I do this (not sure if I am missing a step somewhere).  Just open the edit file and remove the grey. The amount of time this takes depends on your design.

Once you have accomplished that, set your parameters and engrave (or cut) your project.

I believe there are multiple applications that can be used with this project:

• Create color in the design and if if you have an M1 Ultra use the inkjet print to print the design with color.
• Laser the design onto canvas and then paint.  
• If your design is small use a heat foil pen to outline it for personalized cards, envelopes or so many paper options.
• Cut your design into vinyl (instead of lasering) and put it on a fabric item.
• If you have designed an item with cuts then you already have a project in mind.  :-)

Happy Project Making!