Tip for 5/2... Lets talk scanning!

[angedawn]

I know for a lot of new digital scrappers, many of them have never scanned anything in... and scanning is the way we usually incorporate in other types of memorabilia in our digital pages.

Here are a few things I have learned about scanning... first, check your resolution when you scan. I know I scanned in a few items at less resolution than I wanted, and found out when I went to place them into my layout.

Also, I've read that to have a can of compressed air spray and spray the dust off your scanner glass, and also spray your item you are scanning, to reduce the amount of dust and other unwanted particles on your scan. Once the item is scanned in, fix any dust spots with the spot healing brush or clone stamp tool.

Also, if your scans aren't coming out the way you would like, it could be because of a light leak. Putting a black cloth over your scanner can significantly cut down on the light leaks... so that is something to consider as well.

If you clean your scanner cloth, always use something that won't scratch the surface. I use one of the same cloths I use to clean my camera lens.

Any other great tips you guys have for getting a great scan?

[Vania16]

The black cloth thing is the greatest tip ever for scanning! I use it all the time for scanning mini-albums and other altered items so I don't have to try to take a decent photo of it! Also, for scanning metal items, I've heard that putting it on plastic wrap or a transparency will work to protect your scanner from scratches - haven't tried that yet though.

[Keely]

When scanning something with bulk or dimension your scans will come out SO much better if you place the lid of a shoebox over the item, and then cover it with something dark. ( You can use the box part too if it's really big ) I keep a black pillowcase in my desk to use as my scanning helper. It works like a charm.

[angedawn]

Oh, more good tips! :) I have heard that about the shoebox too Keely, but never tried it... great ideas! :)

[happyrobyn]

Great tips guys! Love the black cloth and shoebox ideas!

[Nevermore]

Never thought of the liquid air even though I have a can of it on the desk! I have been using a lens cloth but I think the liquid air sounds neat. Would never have thought of the shoe box either! I do use a towel sometimes but I have nothing black. (Black pillow case sounds slightly disrespectful, lol!) Hmmmm, maybe time to get some black bedding,,,,,,,

[Keely]

(Black pillow case sounds slightly disrespectful, lol!) Hmmmm, maybe time to get some black bedding,,,,,,,

LOL The black pillow case is from a set of sheets that I bought to use as a backdrop.

[Vania16]

I use a big hunk of black no-pill fleece that I bought for a photo backdrop, but perhaps a pillow case would be a more manageable size LOL