Pointer tablet

[foneman]

More questions:

How many of you are using some type of a "pointer tablet" instead of a mouse for creating patterns?

What type do you recommend?

What size is the most useful?

Are there any disadvantages to using these?

Where is the best place to purchase one?

Does some software work better than others with them?

Thanks in advance!!
John

[Minnesota scroller]

I believe the most popular graphics tablet is the Wacom. I have just the 4" X 6", which works fine for me. If you have the room and the $$$, a larger one would be nicer. Mine works good with PSP. I can't think of any disadvantages. I believe I bought mine from Amazon.com.

[Pop]

I bought a Videon Graphic Tablet on eBay with a 9 x 12 working area. It came with a wireless pen and mouse. It was only $55, it's USB and I like the size because it gives me a true feeling for actual size while I'm working. (It's easier on my hands too because I don't have to confine my motion as much as the smaller tablet I used to have)

[Dennis Taylor]

I also use the Wacom with the PsP program, and have been quite happy with it, much easier than when I was just using the mouse, and more accurate...I don't use the tablet for day to day internet, but for making patterns, it is a great tool, and pretty cheap now a days...I also have the smaller one, but there are larger sizes, but with the size increase the $$$ goes up with it....I got mine from Best Buy, and waited for it to go on sale, and they do pretty often, at least here in Ohio....Ebay is a good source, you can get them new there also, but most of the times shipping cost negates the better price....give one a try, you won't be disappointed!...Dennis

[guitarman]

Someone please explain to me what a pointer tablet is and what it does. I don't have a clue. Sounds interesting and I'd like to know if it's something I could use. David

[Andy]

Hello David,

Perhaps the nomenclature has thrown you sideways. A "pointer" tablet, is actually a graphics tablet. Hands down, no dispute, the Wacom tablet leads the industry in the arena of graphics tablets. It's the preferred tablet for all professional graphics designers. As usual, that doesn't mean it's the only one, or the best for every situation, but it's undeniably an excellent choice. The 4 X 6 tablet is the entry level one they offer and for what we do with pattern making will more than do the trick. Check out for more details. With a Wacom tablet you can't go wrong. With others, you'll certainly get the job done as well. I'm an adamant promoter of Wacom tablets and the 4 X 6 is what I currently use. I've looked into the larger ones as well and can't really see a benefit outside of the possibility that they'll be more accurate given the size of most patterns.

Does that make any sense? LOL

Andy

[Andy]

I don't know why the URL didn't include itself in the previous post but it's www.wacom.com

Andy

[CanadianScroller]

I have a Wacom, under the Serif Software name.
I do not "trace" the patterns like one would in a colouring book, but I do click on points of reference around a drawing. Once the points are set I can manipulate the lines to the curve I want. It is very quick once you get the hang of it and lends for a much smoother line.
You an do the same thing with a mouse, I often jump back and forth between both pointers.

I do find that some software works better than others, I think that depends on the drivers and the calibration of the hardware.
I spent $79 on mine and I am very satisfied with the results.

[foneman]

CS,
What size of WACOM are you using? Do you think a 4x5 is too small?

Thanks,
John

[Rolf]

I have the Wacom Intuos 3, I am not sure which size. I use it with PSP and Adobe photo elements. The pressure sensitive features are super when touching up photos. The tablet came bundled with the Adobe painter software.