How to Create Traced Art From Photos in Canva

how to trace an image in canva - How to Create Traced Art From Photos in Canva 3

Key takeaways:

  • Use Canva’s Tracer app to convert photos into artistic traced images 🎨
  • Remove background first for better tracing results ✨
  • Adjust threshold settings to get the perfect traced look 🔧

I recently found a cool way to make traced art in Canva. While Canva doesn’t have a built-in tracing feature like Photoshop, there’s a third-party app that does the job perfectly.

Let me show you how to transform your photos into amazing traced artwork.

Getting Your Image Ready for Tracing 🖼️

First things first – pick your image. You can:

  • Upload your own photo
  • Use Canva’s stock images
  • Pick from the elements section

Pro tip: Make it bigger first. A larger image gives you better tracing results.

Cleaning Up Your Image for Better Results

Tracing works by copying the outline or shape of an image. When done right, you can turn any photo into a vector graphic that stays sharp no matter how much you resize it.

Here’s what to do:

  • Remove the background
  • Make sure your subject is clear
  • Keep the image clean and simple

Using the Tracer App 🎯

The tracing tool is super versatile. You can use it to create freehand shapes, curves, and lines by following the outline of your image.

Steps to trace:

  1. Go to Apps section
  2. Search for “Tracer”
  3. Click Open
  4. Select your image
  5. Click “Trace Selected Image”

Fine-Tuning Your Traced Art

The magic happens in the threshold settings:

  • Lower threshold = fewer details
  • Higher threshold = more details
  • Around 150 usually works well
  • Each image needs different settings

Making Your Art Pop

Once traced, you can:

  • Change background colors
  • Add effects
  • Create duotone looks
  • Make artistic variations

FAQs

Does Canva have a built-in trace feature?

No, Canva doesn’t have native tracing, but the Tracer app works great as an alternative.

How long does tracing take?

The Tracer app is free to use and can be accessed without a Canva Pro subscription.

What images work best for tracing?

JPG or PNG files work best. PNG files generally give the highest resolution with the least loss, but high-resolution JPGs also work well.

Can I edit the traced image after?

Yes, you can modify colors, add backgrounds, and make other adjustments after tracing.

Do I need Canva Pro for this?

No, the Tracer app is free and works with the free version of Canva.

Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cc1dF39VPZc