How to Trace a Map
Written By Philipp Brockerhoff
Last updated About 1 hour ago
Tracing is a simple way to recreate an existing map or parts of it in Inkarnate by placing it as a temporary reference image. Once the reference image is in place, you can build your map over it using the normal editing tools.
The reference image remains fully editable and can be hidden or removed at any time.
Uploading a Reference Image
Select the Stamp Tool (O).
Click the asset preview to open the Catalog.
Select Me in the Catalog navigation.
Click Upload and follow the prompts to upload your reference image.
Select the uploaded image and place it on the map.
Tip
For easier organization, consider moving the reference image to Sublayer -5 so it remains behind most other objects while tracing.
Adjusting the Reference Image
The best settings depend on whether your reference image is black and white or in color.
Black & White Reference Images: For sketches, line art, or monochrome maps, set Blend Mode to Multiply. This makes the white background transparent while keeping the dark outlines visible for tracing.
Color Reference Images: For colored maps, Lower the Opacity to approximately 0.5 and set Blend Mode to Overlay. This keeps the map visible while making it less distracting during tracing.
Tips
Resize the reference image before you begin tracing so it matches the desired map scale.
Lock the reference image after positioning it to avoid accidentally moving it while tracing.
Place the reference image on a separate Object Layer if you want to hide or remove it quickly later.
Delete the reference image when the map is complete.
See Also
Stamp Tool: Place and customize assets on your map.
Catalog: Browse and select assets of different types.
Blend Modes: Adjust how the reference image blends with the map beneath it.
Object Layers: Organize line, shape, stamp, and text objects while controlling shared layer settings and rendering order.
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