CorelDraw How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
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[CorelDraw] - How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
Hi,
I need help using my CorelDraw x3 software. Here's my situation: I have some photos that I would like to use as stencils for screen printing. I have been searching online for tutorials on this however it seems like I find more tutorials for the actual screen printing process than how to prepare your photos using CorelDraw x3 and Corel Photo-Paint x3. I am new to using Corel Draw software but I am a fast learner. I'm a little disappoint that the software did not come with a instructional manual but I hear it's easy to learn.
Can someone give me instructions on how to prepare my photos for screen printing using Corel Draw x3 and Corel Photo-Paint sofware?
Also if possible can you recommend some books and/or websites that will be help for beginners. (No E-Books recommendations please, I rather have a physical copy of the book)
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
You can manipulate your photo in Corel and Photopaint. My understanding is that you will have to run it through a RIP. The t-shirt screeners has a couple of different methods of printing it.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
I am guessing since you used the term stencil you are wanting to create line art (vector art) of a photo. There are several posts about making photos into stencilable line art here on the forum. Vector trace functions and node editing or path cleanup. Do a few searches on the forum with terms like Corel, Live trace, Node editing, photos etc. You should have help files withing your program that will probably be your first starting point.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
David,
The example you showed using the photo of Barack Obama is exactly what I want to do. I'll do a search to see if I can find instructions on how to do this.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
Quote:
Originally Posted by MotoskinGraphix
Is this example what you are after?
Hi David,
That is exactly what I'm trying to accomplish as well. How did you do it? I can't get it to ever come out clean like that. Can you direct me a tutorial that you might have used to create Barack?
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
Quote:
Originally Posted by barbie24
Hi David,
That is exactly what I'm trying to accomplish as well. How did you do it? I can't get it to ever come out clean like that. Can you direct me a tutorial that you might have used to create Barack?
Thanks,
Barbie
Check your e-mail. If you need anything else just let me know.
Ok...I am getting an e-mail failure notice so send me a message on my e-mail with a return e-mail address. Just send a regular e-mail instead of going through t-shirt forums.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
A vector tracing tool is what is needed to convert a photo into vector art. If you have Corel you should have a trace feature. The same if you have AI., Flexi etc. If you dont have a trace tool go check out Vector Magic. You can purchase the program or buy tokens and use it online.
1. You need to start with a good quality photo.
2. Convert image to black and white or Grayscale. You have some control over this so play with the programs options.
3. Do your trace a couple times with different parameters to get the best (cleanest resolution).
4. Pull the vector into your art program and look at it in wireframe.
5. Depending on what program you use there will be line and node editing tools. The tools should have node or point reduction as a percentage. You should be able to add and delete points, straighten lines, alter curves, creat/sharpen/round corners, three point curves and arcs all customizable. This is a learning curve but its how you clean up vector art and make jagged edges clean.
Many folks have little tricks they do for cleaning up pics before the vector trace using the jpeg filters etc but note what works on one pic doesnt work on every pic.
The best thing to do is look for high quality pics before doing the trace. Understand what you want to create and look at the background and things that will probably have to be removed to get a good image. You might have to do some photoshop work before ever getting to the trace.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
Quote:
Originally Posted by MotoskinGraphix
I am guessing since you used the term stencil you are wanting to create line art (vector art) of a photo. There are several posts about making photos into stencilable line art here on the forum. Vector trace functions and node editing or path cleanup. Do a few searches on the forum with terms like Corel, Live trace, Node editing, photos etc. You should have help files withing your program that will probably be your first starting point.
Is this example what you are after?
Dear David,
Can you please send me the too the example that you have used to make the stencil. it is a great work.
Re: How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3
If you're working with a photo, at least in Gimp, is go to "colors" click "threshold", & you'll get the Obama pic instantly. I'm sure there's a way in other programs to get this effect.
This is a discussion about How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3 that was posted in the Graphics and Design Help section of the forums.
How to convert Photos into stencils using CorelDraw x3 
