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RJ TIP - Grid method using image software

Using the grid method with a graphics program. The program that you use is of little importance. I have chosen to use GIMP in this tip because it's available for free under an open source licence. You can download it here.

Below is a screen shot of GIMP with a B2 size piece of paper in landscape format. The grid is 4cm viewed at 6%. The B2 paper size is roughly 50x70 cm or 20x28 in.  In your graphics program you need to find the view grid function and then the image functions to set the size of the grid. In GIMP click on View then Show Grid. Now click on the Image menu and click Configure Grid. Change the grid space to the size you wish. I find the 4cm is good for this size paper. If the paper were smaller I would use a smaller grid as well. You can save this as a template for the next time.

Now we need to import our image and adjust it to the size of the grid. In GIMP you click on File - Open as Layers...  I resize the picture on the grid so that I have  2 cm margins. Once I am satisfied with the layout, I take my first measurements of key points measuring from the edge of the margin to the point I want to mark.

In my studio I have a large drafting table to work on. This is great for these larger projects but for pieces of A3 and smaller I would recommend something like a Rotring portable drafting board.

I continue to mark key points until I have enough measures to insure that I will have proper positioning.

Some  common points to mark are:

• Facial features
• Points on circles and ellipses
• Delimitation of dark areas or key highlights

I use these markings for reference and draw the sketch by eye. Consider it as free-hand with visual aids. Actually I use the same method when I draw from life, it just takes much longer to identify and mark the reference points using my pencil as a measurement tool. If I feel that something looks out of proportion or out of place I will confirm the position by taking more measurements. I recommend that you take a minimum of measurements and only use additional measurements to confirm what you have drawn. Once I have the sketch completed to my satisfaction I will print a small copy of the image and work from it rather than the computer screen. If I go back to the computer screen it will be to zoom in on some detail that I am not able to see in the image on paper.

This method works well for me as it:

• allows me to scale drawings to any size
• saves me time
• conserves my drawing skills
• gives me a quick way to check if my proportions or positions are correct

Remember this is just a tip and is not meant to be a tutorial. I hope it is enough to get you started though.