train sprite drawing

[gebik]

Hi all,
I have decided to redraw trains from my sets. This time not using the PixelTool, since it never gets out of it symmetric, sometimes a row of pixels gets cut out, and there are similar issues with it. So, I have decided to draw them by hand in GIMP. I have part of my first hand drawn train done, and have run into not so minor issue: I can't seem to be able to draw a nice looking pantograph. I would like to get some tips, or something, from those of you, who are more expierenced at this. Only thing, I have drawn by hand without any tools, is a rack rail, which I have added to existing track sprites. I welcome any help, and prefer using this thread, so anybody new to sprite drawing can also use it.

Thanks!
MLG

[LaRoso]

Yes, pantographs is one thing I struggle a lot with. I'd just say look at other people's creations and let them inspire you. It's probably best to keep them simple.

[gebik]

Yes, pantographs is one thing I struggle a lot with. I'd just say look at other people's creations and let them inspire you. It's probably best to keep them simple.

Thanks for the tip and reply! I have of course looked at other trains, but most of time: not so much visible pantograph on locomotive, so not good for help, since my trains have bright pantographs. I have now been testing one my attempt to see, if it looks nice. That pantograph looks IMHO suitable by now.