If you’ve been practicing your art since before the age of modern digital art tools, you likely remember that the “old” way of getting your art onto a computer program for editing involved drawing it on a piece of paper, scanning it, and then having to trace your artwork using a computer mouse and the art program. Today, however, graphics tablets have changed everything. They make it possible to create digital art right into your computer art program, utilizing tablet technology to transfer art you draw onto the tablet into the program itself. If you are planning on drawing or painting on a graphics tablet, you’ll need for basic tools. Let’s take a closer look at the 4 tools you’ll need to get started.
Drawing Graphics Tablet
Obviously, you can’t draw on a graphics tablet without a drawing graphics tablet! There are hundreds of different drawing graphics tablets out there on the market, each with various features and functions that may appeal to different skill levels and needs. My latest purchase was the Wacom Cintiq 13HD Interactive graphics tablet, which features 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity, a 13.3″ HD display, a lightweight design that makes for easy transfer, and an easy connection to your computer. See all 3 best drawing tablets with screen for artists.
Pressure Sensitive Stylus
Most drawing graphics tablets, including the one I recommended above, are going to come with their own stylus, but you should really purchase a separate pressure sensitive stylus in addition to the one that comes with your tablet. I recommend purchasing the INTUOS4 Pen Pro, which is a stylus pen that comes with an excellent additional pack of stylus pen nibs, ranging from flexible to wide body to hard felt and more. The pen itself features 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity and has a cushioned contoured grip to help prevent discomfort over time.
Artist Glove for Drawing Tablet
To be honest, I never used thought about using artist’s gloves until I began to notice various smudges on my tablet, which were affecting my artwork. A friend suggest the Huion Artist Glove, which is a two-fingered glove. It actually is specifically designed for use with graphics tablets. Artists gloves are designed to reduce the friction between your hand and the tablet when you are drawing, getting rid of those pesky smudges and swipes that I mentioned earlier. It is “one size fits all,” but if you have very large hands you might need to look for a larger brand.
Portable Case for Drawing Graphics Tablet
I love to draw wherever I go, so I couldn’t imagine going anywhere without my graphics tablet. I used to carry my tablet in a messenger bag, but with the purchase of a more expensive and higher quality tablet, I wanted to take the extra step to keep it safe. I recommend the FitStand Protective Travel box for the Wacom Cintiq 13HD graphics tablet. It is the perfect size for tablets, is made with high quality protective material, and even includes a pocket for your stylus pen, tablet cords, and accessories such as screen wipes.