

This way, when you draw everything else on a layer under the sketch layer, the white parts of the sketch appear transparent and the lines are not covered by what you draw. Put it in its own layer and set the blend mode of the layer to "Multiply" and then lock the layer.

Several alternative approaches will be discussed, some of them requiring a tablet, some not.įor all methods you first need the sketch image imported into Inkscape.

Basic knowledge of Inkscape's functionality and user interface is expected. The tutorial also presumes the version 0.46, the latest stable one, for some specific tools. In this tutorial the free vector drawing program Inkscape is used, though many other programs have similar functionality. Vector linart can be combined with colouring and shading done in raster by rendering the lineart into raster in desired resolution. The added bonus of lineart in vector is that they are freely scalable to any size without loss of resolution. Usually the inked lineart is wanted as solid and sharp-edged, and for this vector programs suit well. The term derives from the ink pens used for this purpose in dead-tree drawing, and the term has transitioned into digital art as well. In art, the term "inking" refers to making a clearly defined lineart from a sketch.
