How to Transfer Line Art: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- debbielouart1
- Jun 14
- 3 min read
Transferring line art is a helpful way to start your coloured pencil drawing with confidence. Whether you’re using a reference image or following a tutorial, having an accurate outline ensures good proportions and a strong foundation. In this post, we’ll walk you through beginner-friendly methods for transferring line art and explain which tools work best.
Why Transfer Line Art?
Transferring line art saves time and ensures accuracy—especially helpful if you’re new to drawing or focusing on colouring techniques. It also helps preserve your final drawing surface, since you won’t need to sketch directly onto your good paper.
Method 1: Using Transfer Paper
This is one of the easiest ways to transfer your line art.
What You’ll Need:
Your line art printed on regular paper
Transfer paper (preferably in graphite or white)
Your drawing paper (e.g., pastelmat, Bristol board, hotpress)
A ballpoint pen or hard pencil or colour pencils
Tape - masking tape or magic tape, depending on your surface
Steps:
Tape your drawing paper onto your work surface to keep it steady.
Place a sheet of transfer paper face-down on top of your drawing paper.
Position the line art on top of the transfer paper and tape it in place.
Use a ballpoint pen or colour pencil to trace over the lines of your artwork. Apply firm, even pressure.
Carefully lift one corner to check that the lines have transferred before removing the full sheet.
Tips:
Use white transfer paper on dark surfaces.
Avoid pressing too hard to prevent indenting your paper.
Method 2: The Graphite Pencil Transfer Method
Great for when you don’t have transfer paper on hand.
What You’ll Need:
Your line art printout
A graphite pencil (soft, like 4B or 6B)
Drawing paper
Tape - masking tape or magic tape
Ballpoint pen or stylus
Steps:
Flip your line art printout over and shade the back of the paper where the lines are.
Turn the image right side up and tape it over your drawing paper.
Use a ballpoint pen or stylus to trace the lines. The graphite will transfer onto your drawing surface.
Tips:
Use a soft pencil to ensure enough graphite transfers.
Test your pressure to avoid over-smudging.
Method 3: Lightbox Transfer
This method works best with thinner paper or light-toned surfaces.
What You’ll Need:
Lightbox or well-lit window
Line art printout
Drawing paper
Tape - masking tape or magic tape
Steps:
Tape the line art to the lightbox or window.
Place your drawing paper on top and secure it with tape.
Trace the line art gently using a mechanical pencil or light HB pencil.
Tips:
Only use this method on paper that allows light to pass through.
Ideal for detailed drawings where accuracy is key.
Choosing the Best Method for You
Use transfer paper for convenience and clean results.
Use the graphite method if you're on a budget.
Use a lightbox if you want full control and your paper is thin enough.
Final Thoughts
Transferring line art helps you start your coloured pencil drawings with confidence and accuracy. Once you’ve transferred your outline, you’re ready to start layering, blending, and bringing your subject to life!
Want to Learn More?
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