Tracing a drawing from a previous Layer.

**WAR** · 23 March 2018, 02:56 PM

I am a new user who previously used Microsoft PhotoDraw until it was discontinued. I apologize, but this is a terribly NOOB question.

I have a drawing on Layer 1 which I'd like to trace. I add Layer 2, but can't find a way to make it transparent so I can see and trace Layer 1 below it.

What am I missing?

**Boy** · 23 March 2018, 03:11 PM

A new layer is by default transparent because there are not yet any objects in it. So, create your new layer, lock layer 1 to prevent any accidental movements or changes, select your drawing tool and start tracing. Or did I miss something in your post?

**Mike Bailey** · 23 March 2018, 03:20 PM

Make sure your new layer is on the same page as your drawing.

**WAR** · 23 March 2018, 04:16 PM

Thanks so much for the quick replies!

Duh! I was creating a new PAGE, not a new LAYER . . . .

Problem solved.

**gwpriester** · 23 March 2018, 04:24 PM

Glad we could help.

Welcome to TalkGraphics

**Acorn** · 23 March 2018, 04:25 PM

Why use a Layer when you can Lock the Shape and trace over it?
Also if tracing ensure the final trace shape is partially transparent so you can see and correct errors.

Acorn

**gwpriester** · 23 March 2018, 04:27 PM

Why use a Layer when you can Lock the Shape and trace over it?

Not sure why others might do this but when I do it, I want the subject I am tracing to be ghosted back so I can see the results of my tracing better.

**mwenz** · 23 March 2018, 04:31 PM

I usually just lock the shape but (generally) use a magenta line during the trace. Once in a while I'll knock back the opacity of the image, but generally just trace right on it.

**handrawn** · 23 March 2018, 05:13 PM

Originally Posted by Acorn

Why use a Layer when you can Lock the Shape and trace over it?
Also if tracing ensure the final trace shape is partially transparent so you can see and correct errors.

Acorn

if you want to be able to manipulate all your tracings without grouping anything - eg hide/show all in one go - you really need tham all on their own layer - eg line art from pencil scans

I can think of a few other [non-web] reasons too relating to colouration techniques

**Acorn** · 23 March 2018, 05:15 PM

Originally Posted by handrawn

if you want to be able to manipulate all your tracings without grouping anything - eg hide/show all in one go - you really need tham all on their own layer - eg line art from pencil scans
I can think of a few other [non-web] reasons too relating to colouration techniques

Not objections, but moving to a different layer when done or starting there is by-the-by.
I had imagined the shape being traced was ephemeral.
Acorn