Tips for good results on your paper trace

Sometimes it's easier to say what not to do, than what to do. See our tips below.


Bad example of paper trace

Don't use low resolution images


  • Most modern smartphones cameras work great.
  • Make sure to use the high res version
  • The file size should be over 1MB
Multiple pieces of paper used to create poster

Don't piece together computer paper


  • Use a single piece of white poster board instead
  • Trying to tape together smaller sheets, will cause artifacts to show in the render
  • HERE is an Amazon link to some posterboards
Paper Trace made from lead pencil

Don't only use pencils


  • Light trace marks make detecting the outlines unreliable
  • We recommend using a ultra-fine tip sharpie
  • HERE is an Amazon link to the Sharpies
Tools positioned too closely for toolbox shadowing application

Don't squish your tools


  • If your tools are too close together, they may merge
  • Keep at least .5" of spacing betwen tools, as well as the edge of the poster
  • The width of a finger is a good rule of thumb. Pun intended.
Paper trace of plier organization with too many gaps

Don't leave gaps in the trace


  • #1 cause of tools not rendering when uploaded
  • The end of every tool outline must connect with the begining
Sloppy result of tracing out tools on posterboard for toolboard inserts

Don't rush


  • Slow and steady, wins the trace
  • Taking your time yields higher quality results
Socket with crossed out icon top

Don't trace sockets


  • We require customers to send in CAD drawings of sockets
  • Why? It takes you less time, and it is higher quality. Hand tracing perfect circles is hard

Trace one drawer at a time


  • Don't trace your entire tool box, then upload it all the images after
  • Why? If there are issues in your technique, you might need to redo all of your tracing
  • Trace one drawer, then

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