Digital Art Tablet Tutorial by Aaron Rutten

Introduction

• Purpose: Teach basics of using drawing tablets for beginners and provide tips for experienced artists.
• Types of tablets discussed:
  • Basic drawing tablet (e.g., Wacom Intuos)
  • Large display tablet (e.g., Wacom Cintiq)
  • All-in-one tablet (e.g., Wacom Mobile Studio Pro)
• Note: Tips applicable to various tablet brands.

Getting Started

• Ensure tablet drivers are installed before connecting.
• Install compatible art application supporting pen pressure.

Using a Basic Drawing Tablet (e.g., Wacom Intuos)

Basics of Operation

• No built-in display; look at computer monitor while drawing.
• Pen can navigate like a mouse:
  • Hover above surface to move cursor without touching.
  • Align pen tip with desired cursor point on the monitor.
  • Adjust settings if using multiple monitors (tablet properties control panel).

Mouse Functions

• Tap pen to click.
• Tap and hold to drag.
• Right-click:
  • Assign to pen button or express key.
  • Two modes: hover then click or hold button then click.

Testing Brush Pressure

• Ensure pen pressure is enabled in art software.
• Test with a brush that supports pressure sensitivity.
• Calibrate pen pressure in Wacom tablet properties if needed.

Setting Up the Drawing Environment

• Position tablet ergonomically:
  • Align tablet horizontally with monitor.
  • Center tablet in front of monitor for better coordination.
• Rest hand on tablet surface without smudging (only pen tip leaves marks).

Multi-Touch and Gesture Controls

• Some tablets support multi-touch for navigation.
• Customize multi-touch settings in tablet properties.

Universal Gestures

• Tap with one finger for left click.
• Right-click with one finger (hold) or two fingers (tap).
• Pinch to zoom, drag with two fingers to move canvas.

Customization

• Tablets may support ambidextrous use; set handedness in properties.
• Customize settings for different applications; create profiles.

Working with Display Tablets (e.g., Wacom Cintiq)

• Draw directly on the screen; feels natural like paper.
• Calibration may be needed for cursor alignment.
• Keep pen upright to avoid cursor offset.

All-in-One Tablets (e.g., Wacom Mobile Studio Pro)

• Similar to display tablets but with built-in computer.
• Orientation sensing can aid in certain artistic techniques.

Extra Features and Advanced Techniques

• Eraser function on pen (if available); can be programmed or disabled.
• Express keys for quick access to commands (e.g., undo, redo).
• Brush expressions:
  • Pressure for size/opacity, tilt for brush angle, rotation for brush tip without tilt.

Surface Texture

• Some tablets have a textured surface for a more natural drawing feel.
• Replacement nibs are often included; various types available for different feels.

Wireless Features

• Some tablets connect via Bluetooth; wired connections are faster and more reliable.

Conclusion

• Familiarize yourself with your tablet and art software.
• Consider exploring different art applications for enhanced creativity.
• Encouragement to subscribe for more content.