Posted by: admin : Category: Using a ruler
Maybe this is obvious, but I’ve only recently been using it a lot. This example was used for a cover up, but I use it even more when I’m planning a tattoo for a certain space.
All I do is hold up a ruler to the piece when I take a picture. That’s it.
After transferring the images to my computer, I open up Photo shop.
Create a new file (File > New). For a new document I always use the Photo shop Preset: U.S. Paper. (Size – Letter) This creates a standard 8.5″ by 11″ sheet at a 300 dots per inch resolution.
Next, I open the image I want and drag it onto the new document. Making sure the rulers are showing (View – Rulers) I click on the ruler and drag/pull a guide down to the inch mark. And I drag another down to the two inch mark.
Then it’s a matter of resizing the photo; enlarging or reducing enough so the inch and two inch marks line up with the guides.
Pretty easy.
Then I have my size. Sometimes I print it out and draw over it. Other times I use my Wacom and sketch right there. It’s perfect. And it helps with figuring out sizing for cover ups.
I also have paper rulers I print out and use as well. I like using a new one for every person, so I just print them out and throw them away. It’s nothing special, but, when I get time, I’ll throw it in the reference section so it’s easy to just grab and print.
