How to Use Tracing Paper for Drawing (It's Not Cheating!)

By Carol Leather

Have you ever wondered if learning to use tracing paper is cheating or just another artistic technique?

I used to hear that debate all the time, but in my experience, tracing is both a legitimate method and an incredibly useful tool, whether you're just starting out or have been at it for years.

In this guide, I'm excited to share the many ways tracing paper can improve your art. I'll also clear up some common misconceptions along the way.

In my opinion, from transferring your sketch to finalizing details, tracing paper is your ally. It ensures everything, from proportions to balance, is just right.

1. Trace the outline. Lay the tracing paper over your reference and draw the main outlines with a soft pencil (a 2B works well).
2. Shade the back. Turn the paper over and scribble graphite over the backs of those lines.
3. Transfer onto your paper. Lay it graphite-side down and go over the outlines again with a sharp pencil to print them onto your drawing paper.

The Benefits of Tracing

My goal as an artist is to capture the essence of my subject. Tracing paper has helped me do that. Here's how:

For Beginners:

Tracing paper is a learning tool, not just copying. It helps you see how lines and shapes connect. This trains your eye to capture detail in freehand drawing.

For Intermediate Artists:

Tracing paper lets you experiment with composition. You can overlay sketches, check proportions, and adjust placements until everything feels balanced.

For Experienced Artists:

Even after years of drawing, I still use tracing paper on occasions. It ensures that complex compositions stay accurate. It also helps in creating mirror images or symmetrical designs.

Tracing vs freehand drawing: why not both?

Typically, I start with freehand sketches in my sketchbook, trying out different compositions and ideas without any restrictions.

This exploratory phase is all about testing out concepts before deciding on the final layout.

Then, I turn to tracing paper, not to copy the photo directly, but to trace over my original sketch. By doing so, I secure the size and placement of key elements in my drawing.

Whether it's outlining a patch of fur or capturing the subtle spark in an eye, the tracings serve as a reliable guide.

In the end, my work isn't about choosing between traced or freehand. It's about blending the two approaches to make the strongest artwork possible.

How to use tracing paper

Below, I've outlined four methods I've found useful for different parts of the creative process.

(You might also consider alternatives like using the grid system; feel free to explore what works best for you.)

Method 1: The Classic Three-Step Process

I like to keep this method simple and effective:

1. Prepare: Place a piece of thick, high-quality tracing paper over your original image. Secure the two layers with tape or paper clips so they don't shift around.
2. Trace and Reinforce: Carefully trace the image using a medium graphite or watercolor pencil. Then flip the tracing paper over onto a scrap sheet and reinforce your lines with the same pencil.
3. Transfer: Secure the tracing paper on your drawing paper with low-tack tape. Using a colored pencil, lightly draw over the traced lines to transfer them.

You can also experiment with tools like a bone folder or even the back of a teaspoon, which helps transfer the graphite without digging into the paper.

Method 2: The Scribble Technique

This approach is a bit quicker:

1. Start by tracing the outlines as you normally would.
2. Flip the paper and scribble gently over the traced lines. For closely spaced lines, a loose scribble is enough; leave open spaces untouched.
3. After placing the tracing paper over your drawing paper, meticulously go over the outlines to ensure the image is transferred accurately. (Be mindful of smudging!)

Method 3: DIY Graphite Transfer Paper

For a different twist, you can create your own transfer paper:

• Coat a sheet of tracing paper with graphite from a pencil or solid graphite block. This sheet can be reused by replenishing the graphite as needed.
• Attach your tracing paper to your drawing surface, placing your DIY carbon sheet in between. Just remember to trace carefully, and watch out for smudges!
• If you're working on black paper, try using a white pastel pencil or stick, then overlay with a white colored pencil and gently dust off any excess pastel.

Method 4: Ready-Prepared Graphite Paper

Sometimes convenience is what you're after:

• Purchase graphite transfer paper from an art supply store. Just make sure it's the graphite type, not carbon, as the latter is harder to erase or modify.
• You can find these in various colors, like white and red, tailored for use on dark papers. Note that experiences can vary. If a line strays, it might be tougher to erase.

How to remove smudges from the drawing paper

If unwanted graphite smudges occur, a kneaded eraser often saves the day.

I tap it gently on smudges to lift away loose graphite.

If you don't have a kneaded eraser, mounting putty (like BluTac) works well too. Just warm it up in your hand until it becomes slightly sticky and then carefully lift off the smudges.

To keep your tools in tip-top shape, store your eraser and putty separately, in a lidded container, to avoid any dust or drying issues.

Summing up

Tracing paper is an incredibly versatile tool at every stage of your artistic journey.

Whether you're a beginner building your foundation, an intermediate artist refining your work, or a seasoned professional looking for precision, tracing can enhance your creative process.

Remember, it's not about achieving perfection on the first try. It's about understanding and capturing the essence of your composition.

So, go ahead and experiment with these methods, and see which one best fits your workflow.

Don't let outdated misconceptions hold you back. Think of tracing paper as a tool to boost your creativity and improve your accuracy.

Your next masterpiece might just be a traced sketch away!

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