[Justa Fledgling]

Is there a big difference between drawing on paper and drawing on a tablet? I plan to major in art take up graphic design and i think i need a tablet. Either way i want 1. Another thing, is 6X8 a good size? Seems small but i havnt used 1 so... Well, thanks for the help.

[Sumaleth]

There are two main differences between a graphics tablet and a regular pencil;

. Tablets are smooth, they don't give the grainy feedback you get from real materials. Some people put a sheet of paper on the tablet to create friction.

. You need to get used to looking at the screen while drawing rather than watching your hand.

It takes a bit of getting used to, but once you've had some practice it's just like anything else - second nature.

--

Tablet size is very much a personal-preference thing. I've used 6x8 and 12x12 tablets and personally I much rather the 6x8 because it's easier to deal with on the desk. But there are people who prefer the large one. You really need to try both to see which you prefer, but 6x8 is a very usable size and is cheaper.

Row.

[Freddio]

yea tablet size is really a personal thing, I am currently using a 4x5 graphire...

this is fine for what I use it for... I can imagine a 6x8 would be ideal. Anything bigger would give you elbow cramp

[Justa Fledgling]

Thanks for the responses guys. And money is a pretty big deal when it comes to size. $1800 is a bit much. One more thing, does the screen show some sort of cursor for where your stylus is(i figure it does)? If so what does it look like?

[ October 24, 2001: Message edited by: Justa Fledgling ]

[Lord_Zimboomboom]

Looks just like the mouse cursor, Justa.

[Justa Fledgling]

Good to know. Thanks.

[Jason Manley]

I don't mean to disagree with freddio....But, I use a 12x18 and wouldnt go smaller. The big tablets are MUCH more sensative and also help to contribute to looseness or freshness in your work.

the smaller tablets force you to draw with your fingertips which can push works toward being and feeling stiff due to the limited mark making ability they posess....I guess the big thing is that with larger tablets I get a much greater mark variety and mark sensitivity...not to mention I can draw with my arm just like if I was drawing from life.

Id say...as I always do...get the largest tablet you can afford. check ebay or the remanufactured section at wacom. you can sometimes find the big ones for 400 buckaroos.

jason