The only 'rule' in painting is what works. - Lee Fleming
An image may be
transferred to a canvas in many ways. One easy and successful way is using an Opaque
Projector. The projector for the artist is like water to fish. It makes oil painting
easier and especially with portrait or an image that has to look perfect. Projectors are
very expensive. Some are table models and some have stands. Some are overhead projection.
Some studios have projectors that they will rent to you or will put on the image for you
for a fee. Make sure that the canvas is completely straight or your image will be
distorted. Using your terra cotta pencil outline the image you see on the canvas. Make
sure to get in all the details. After the image is transferred to your satisfaction,
spray it very lightly with a can of hair spray. This sets the image. I use the cheapest
aerosol can of hair spray I can find. There is a fixative you can purchase but it has an
odor and is expensive. If you have a pattern of an image and no projector, the image may
be transferred on to the canvas using graphite paper under the image and tracing the
image with your stylus. Spray the image when completely transferred. I have also
projected an image from a slide projector. Of course you have to have a slide for your
subject. Free hand drawing is also a possibility. This method gives you great
satisfaction with your painting. Another method of transferring an image is to make a
grid from Plexiglas, and hold it so you can see the subject through. Use a grease or
china marking pencil to mark the image and details. Now transfer the information to a
grid on your drawing or canvas. The grid may be wiped off and reuses again. Using live
models or props will create a painting you will be proud of. A camera is a must for the
Artist inventory. Use fabric, rock, jars, plants jewelry, and much more to create your
original painting.