DIY Tracing Table

Intro: DIY Tracing Table

I found myself in need of a way to trace a drawing for a project I'm working on. After looking online and seeing that the tracing tables are typically starting at around $30 I wanted to find a way to beat the system. This "tracing table" was made with things I already had around the house which made it a much better alternative for my budget. It was very easy to use and served my purpose perfectly.

STEP 1: The Supplies

You'll need:
A white or light colored pillow case/sheet/blanket (to put under the lamp to act as a reflector adding more light in the box)

A flashlight/lamp (I used a camping lantern that we had one hand. I think the best option would be to use a large hand held flashlight so that you can point the light directly up toward the top of the box)

A clear plastic storage bin

STEP 2: Assemble the Bottom Pieces

Put the white cloth on a flat surface. Place the light source on top of the cloth.

STEP 3: Place the Bucket on Top and Trace Away!

I placed the plastic bucket over the top of the light source and began tracing.

A couple of tips:
Doing this in a dark room will amplify your ability to trace through the paper.
I placed mine on top of my bed because it made my tracing table the right height. You could also do this on a coffee table, the floor, etc.

Comments

[BeckyB48]

Great idea. I have always used a cheap clear clipboard and a flashlight.

[baconbot000]

Danke!

[chclarkson3312]

I’m going to visit my grandchildren for Thanksgiving! Kudos for the idea! I’m making three!!!

[jubjubgurl]

Wow! I went and made something a little bit more robust and did a lot of time decorating, but could never get it to work quite right because of the light component. This is way easier and better. Thank you!

[wazzup105]

I really need to make this.

[nancy.newcombfuller]

Maybe a strip of aluminum foil instead of the white pillowcase/sheet. I believe it would reflect more light thru the plastic tub. Great idea .

[Puffpuffbam]

Wow this saved me a lot thx

[MichiganDave]

This is sweet, and it has prompted me into doing something like it.

Glad you shared!

[ashleyjlong]

Great improv solution for a lightbox! When I was in college for animation, kids would rig up all sorts of weird things so they could work in the dorms. The slightly frosted plastic of a tub is way easier on the eyes than a clear glass coffee table (saw that one really fry someone). I'd include a note to use a light source that does not emit much/any heat. Some kids ended up searing the carpet beneath them when clamp lamps were used as the light!

[CJA3D]

Super easy !!

[pc1975]

This is brilliant!

[seamster]

Oh my goodness. This is so simple.

High five from me, I'll definitely be using this trick next time I need to trace something!

[SabrenaD]

I'm glad you'll be able to benefit from it! I was really excited when it ended up working!