[Katydid]

I am just getting started in human form carving. Does anyone know of or are using a GOOD drawing software product? My goal is to be able to draw, change, save, etc. It woul d also be nice if I could shade areas to respresent shadows. I recently read an article from a gentleman who was doing just that but now I can't find the article. Any help or recommendations would be appreciated.

[whitecree]

I use Corel 9. It takes a bit of time to learn how to do everything - I've been playing with it on and off for 4 years and still don't know all the features - but is easy enough to get started on.

[Tony Ward]

I've used Corel v.8 for a number of years, expensive to buy, and there is alot to learn, but well worth the investment.

Tony Ward

[Nancy-ID]

Adobe Photoshop Illustrator

[whitecree]

I haven't used Adobe Illustrator too much, but as I recall, it is easier to get going with than Corel. But I don't much like the interface.

[Katydid]

I've had 2 votes for Corel. I think I'll give it a try. Thanks for the response.

[BobD]

Adobe Illustrator is what we use here at the office, but Corell is usually less expensive.

But, AI is a lot less expensive if you pick up an old copy of Photoshop or something like that off e-Bay...

In fact, you might check e-Bay for Corell as well...

Both also have a free 1 month trial, so you could download them and try them out and see which you prefer!

Bob Duncan
Wood Carving Illustrated

[Knotbored]

This is a little late, but is freeware that might be just what you need.
http://www.ambientdesign.com/artrage.html
(they also have a pay version I haven't tried)
It has a 'light table" that allows you to trace over a photo to get outlines and shading.

[dutchmanmk3]

Originally Posted by BobD

Adobe Illustrator is what we use here at the office, but Corell is usually less expensive.

But, AI is a lot less expensive if you pick up an old copy of Photoshop or something like that off e-Bay...

In fact, you might check e-Bay for Corell as well...

Both also have a free 1 month trial, so you could download them and try them out and see which you prefer!

Bob Duncan
Wood Carving Illustrated

Good points, and I'm inclined to agree. Depending on the intended use and projected growth of your utililities Corel draw has many practicle extensions for CNC, and Laser design though. It's a bit of an industrial handicap built into the available hardware.

What's your own personal experience with the learning curve between the two ?

Adobe gives me fits, but Corel is often Monotonous, or Pedantic. If Intellect is the deciding factor I'm in a world of hurt here ! Marc

[BobD]

I dont' have a whole lot of experience with either (Our art director Jon Deck does that sort of work). I know he prefers Adobe because it meshes so well with InDesign, which is what we lay the magazines out in, and Photoshop.

Bob