Tracing a drawing from a previous Layer.

[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

[gwpriester]

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]

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]

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]

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

[handrawn]

why move it when you can create it in situ? - what if you are wanting the head[s] traced on one layer, the limbs on another, the torso[s] on another..... surely easier to be methodical from the off rather than have to sort it all out afterwards?

I have no idea what the OP wants, so it's probably academic

[WAR]

Great points made by all. From this one post, I can see that this is a VERY helpful, engaging group!