Tracing is one of the best ways to learn proportions, transfer a tattoo stencil, or just create a quick piece of art. Historically, you needed carbon transfer paper, tracing paper, or a bulky light box.
Today, you can use an AR drawing appto turn your phone's camera into a digital projector.
Step 1: Get an AR Tracing App
First, you need an app that overlays an image over your camera feed. While there are many on the App Store, most charge expensive weekly subscriptions.
Our Recommendation: Drawello
Drawello is completely free to download and makes the setup process instant. No subscriptions required.
Step 2: Prop up your phone
You need both hands free to draw, so your phone needs to look down at the paper. You can use:
- A tall glass or coffee mug (place your phone flat on top, with the camera hanging over the edge).
- A stack of books.
- A cheap phone tripod.
Step 3: Pick your picture and adjust opacity
Open the app and select the photo you want to trace from your camera roll. The app will show your paper through the camera, with your photo floating on top.
Use the opacity slider to find the sweet spot: you need to see the lines of the photo clearly, but also see your pencil moving on the paper below.
Step 4: Lock the screen and trace
Hit the "Lock" button in the app. This prevents the image from moving if you accidentally bump the screen.
Now, look exclusively at your phone screen (not down at your hands). Guide your pencil along the lines you see on the screen. It takes a few minutes to get used to hand-eye coordination, but once it clicks, you can trace anything perfectly.