Pattern designing hardware

[Capt Weasel]

I know about the software choices and preferences used in designing portraits etc. But before the software you need the hardware. Do I need or would it greatly help in having a graphics pad? Can I get by without one or even need one? I know Zaffino uses a Wacom. What should I look for in one if its needed? What size? Others besides Wacom available or better? I want to try my hand at it so I'm in the recon. mode right now. Have had alot of people ask if I didn't custom portraits so its an area I'd like to explore plus doing my own patterns of other things. I figure get the hardware then worry about the PSP, Corel, and Coyote programs and which to get.

[Jediscroller]

Capt.,
Most designers use a wacom tablet, typically 6 X 8 or larger if their desk space allows it. Some use a 4 X 5 tablet as well.
As for me....I haven't used one though I have thought about buying one.

[utbva]

I just got a Wacom 6x8 and am just going to hook it up to my computer so I can't give you any comments on it yet. I'll hook it up this afternoon and see how it works.

[Gill]

Ive got an Aiptek 12000 tablet that I'm happy with. However, you don't need any special hardware as such to design patterns; a standard mouse is certainly good enough.

In fact you don't even need a computer - tracing paper works well. Since you have a computer, though, why not use the 'modern' form of tracing paper - a scanner? I'd say a scanner is much more useful than a tablet and it has uses beyond pattern design.

Gill

[JimSawyer]

When I got my computer, it was intended for graphic manipulation. I got a scanner and printer with it. I had every intention of getting a tablet, but I never did, so I can't tell you how useful one would be. However, I have used my scanner for all sorts of pattern design. I also like to make a tracing with tracing paper. This helps in that it makes you mare familiar with the design, and you can fix any technical problems you come accross. Been doing it this way for years. No complaints, (though I would like to try a tablet).

[utbva]

I have had a scanner for so long I just took it for granted. I do think that it is one of the best tools you can have for pattern making. It will take me a while to get the hang of the tablet.

[Minnesota scroller]

A scanner is definitely almost a necessity for custom work. I have just the 4 X 5 Wacom tablet and find it very handy. A larger one may be handier but I don't see any need for it, now that I'm used to the small one.

[Capt Weasel]

I might be asking a stupid question here but how would a scanner assist me? I've used vellum paper to trace some stuff and when I got it right I Xeroxed it.

[Rolf]

Capt,
It eliminates all the work of tracing. I scan my images resize and edit them with my software of choice and then print out whatever # of copies that I need. It also allows me to archive my patterns.

[GrayBeard Phil]

Capt Weasel:

(As Rolf stated in his post) you are able to trace a design from someone else, then modify the design for your own use and needs, and photocopy the changed pattern, so it is with a scanner. The object is to start with a pattern, or design that is similar to what you had in mind, input into the computer, import the scanned file into your software, and then modify file to get the design to where you want. Sometimes this scanning and modifying will save you a lot of time; just as tracing a design and changing it. Same rules of copyright apply.

Computers and computer hardware are just tools. There is nothing wrong with doing the work with pencil and paper. The problem is the sharing, review, re-working, review, approval, and so on and so on in the business world. Digital drafting is a real money safer in the long run in the business world, as you already know.

Back to the computer input device. A tablet will take some time to get use to. I own a Wacom tablet. I regard it as useful as a piece of Wal-Mart junk. I just cannot get my hand to work with the tablet's pen. I much prefer a high end track-ball from Kensington where my finger tips can very accurately place the cross-hairs, and click with the thumb. But that is just me, others find the tablet very useful and love it more than any mouse or track ball device.

I cannot use the tablet to trace a pattern into the computer. Just won't work that way for me. X and Y axis are not calibrated to the work space on computer screen due to video driver resolutions and screen sizes. You keep your eyes on the screen and move your whole hand with the pen, and your index finger presses the very small 'clicker' button on the side of the Pen. Very exact eye-hand co-ordination required. The pen and the clicker don't work with my hand.

IMHO: You should not need a tablet if you are able to use your mouse for occasional work. You should, and I emphasize the word 'should', be able to tell when you feel the need, and the desire, to go through the tablet's learning curve and justify the money. Until you can justify it by need to expand your computer skill, I recommend you save your money.

I am NOT in the majority with my opinion on this. Trust me on this, read all the replies in this thread and make your own mind up.

Phil