turning white areas transparent

[handrawn]

I think I know what you mean.
I have a one-click filter effect, originally for photoshop, but it works with my painter ix5 so maybe with your version too.
Attached is screen shot of the layer before after and with fills.
Canvas has been hidden.
Is this what you need? - if so I'll dig a copy out for you, its free and in the public domain.
Works with xara too.

[bjay]

Handrawn, could you email me that filter? My email is beverlythumme@hotmail.com

I would really appreciate it.

Thanks!
Bev.

[handrawn]

Bev - welcome to Talk Graphics!

The filter that you want can be downloaded from:
http://www.photoshop-filters.com/html/macks.htm
Filter2 - remove white is the one you want - unzip and place in painter/xara plugin folders as normal [with program closed]
any problems let me know

[bjay]

Thanks for the welcome and the link! I am trying to draw a children's book via my computer, I like being able to do a digital "watercolor and ink" type image. It takes the messiness out of ink and watercolor....although both mediums are just as fun by hand on paper as on digital paper.

Thanks again!
Bev.