The Ultimate Vectoring Guide

Chinese translated version by : [link]

More in-depth tutorials by me:

Vector Mask Painting: [link]

Vector Mask Painting Hair: [link]

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This tutorial was published in the first issue of Squish Magazine! [link]

This thing is HUGE!! Took me 3 days to put together - it consists of about everything I know about vectoring and the pen tool. Gosh I feel like I wrote a term paper. @__@

Please ask questions if you're confused! There is a ton of info!

Please DO NOT redistribute to any other sites.

Outline of info covered:

-What is a Vector
Difference between vectors and rasters
-What is a Vexel

-Intro to the vectoring tools in Photoshop
-Pen tool modes
Shape layers and Paths

-How to draw with the Pen tool
Edit: alt can also be pressed while you are dragging with the pen tool to change the angle of the unconnected handle bar all in one motion. (for when you are at step 3, so some may find step 5 an extra step, but for simple explaining purposes I'm keeping what I have)
-Editing the pen tool shape
-Editing relationships among multiple shapes in a single layer
-Layer Styles
Gradient overlays

-Vectoring lineart
-Vectoring shades (cell shading)
Edit: Some people use clipping masks, but I don't so I didn't mention them here. You can use whatever method makes shading easier for you.
-Troubleshooting tips
When curves aren't smooth
When curves are too sharp and jagged

-Applications of the Paths mode
Typing on paths
Stroking paths with brushes
Marquee selection from a path

-Vector Masking
Extracting Stock
Painting in vector masks

Edit2: Wow! Thanks so much for the DD!! :3