How do you choose the best paper and pencils for clean-up and tracing?

1 Paper types

There are many types of paper that you can use for clean-up and tracing, but not all of them are suitable for animation. Some factors to consider are the weight, texture, transparency, and size of the paper. Generally, you want to use a light and smooth paper that is easy to erase and does not smudge or tear. For clean-up, you can use animation bond paper, which is a standard paper for animation studios. It has peg holes on the bottom to fit the animation disc and comes in different sizes and colors. For tracing, you can use tracing paper, which is a thin and transparent paper that allows you to see the underlying drawing. You can also use acetate or cels, which are plastic sheets that are used for painting and filming the animation.

2 Pencil types

The type of pencil you use for clean-up and tracing also affects the quality and style of your lines. Some factors to consider are the hardness, color, and shape of the pencil. Generally, you want to use a hard and dark pencil that gives you a sharp and consistent line. For clean-up, you can use a 2H or 4H pencil, which are common pencils for animation. They have a hard lead that does not break easily and does not smudge or erase. For tracing, you can use a col-erase pencil, which is a colored pencil that can be erased and comes in different shades. You can also use a fine-tip pen or marker, which gives you a smooth and permanent line.

3 Paper and pencil compatibility

One thing to keep in mind when choosing your paper and pencils is how well they work together. Some combinations may cause problems such as bleeding, smearing, or fading. For example, if you use a soft pencil on a rough paper, you may end up with a fuzzy and uneven line. If you use a wet pen on a thin paper, you may end up with a blotchy and distorted line. To avoid these issues, you should test your paper and pencils before using them for your final drawings. You should also use a clean sheet of paper or a tissue to protect your drawings from your hand or other tools.

4 Paper and pencil storage

Another thing to consider when choosing your paper and pencils is how to store them properly. Paper and pencils are sensitive to environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and light. If you expose them to these elements, they may deteriorate or change their properties over time. For example, paper may curl, warp, or yellow. Pencils may lose their hardness, color, or shape. To prevent these problems, you should store your paper and pencils in a cool, dry, and dark place. You should also use acid-free folders, boxes, or bags to protect them from dust, dirt, or insects.

5 Paper and pencil alternatives

Finally, you may wonder if there are any alternatives to paper and pencils for clean-up and tracing. Nowadays, there are many digital tools and software that can help you with these processes. For example, you can use a scanner, a tablet, or a computer to digitize your drawings and edit them on a screen. You can also use a printer, a projector, or a lightbox to transfer your drawings to another surface. These methods have some advantages such as speed, convenience, and flexibility. However, they also have some disadvantages such as cost, compatibility, and quality. Ultimately, it depends on your preference, budget, and style.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?