Graphic Tablets

[1access@earthlink.net]

Hi All---I would so appreciate input on graphic tablets. Are they worth the investment? Has anyone bought one and then not used it for some reason?

I usually work with my laptop on the couch, bed...anywhere besides a desk. Would it even be appropriate for me?

Thanks so much for all your help and input.

[ScrapMel]

Are they worth it? Yes.
I use mine all the time ... but I do tend to work at a desk 100% of time, though I do have a laptop! But, to do any brush work (erase, select, draw, etc) it is simply amazing how much better you are with a tablet.
One word of caution, it takes practice, so if you get one, use it. And use it only until it becomes second nature. I had mine for 6 months, but never got the hand of it until someone said use only it for your mouse. I did and never regretted buying it after that!

[1access@earthlink.net]

Thanks so much for your help. I really appreciate your input and advice.

Any other experiences from others or do most here not use a tablet?

[Amy Eileen]

I want one!!! :D

I borrowed a friends once and at first I found it a bit tricky but it doesnt take long to get the hang of it. I would think it was worth it. :)

[1access@earthlink.net]

Thanks, Eileen, for sharing yoiur experience with me.

[Debb Cozzi]

It probably depends on what you do. If you end up doing a lot of extracting work or work with brushes and/or add painterly effects to your things then it is worth it I think. To be honest I use it for my design work but hardly ever use it when I'm just scrapping a layout. (FYI....I have an older Wacom)

[ScrapMel]

Debb, does have a point! If you are 'just a scrapper' and don't do any special effects, then no, a tablet isn't really needed. I don't do a lot of design work myself, but I am so used to having the tablet, that I find it easier to do everything now.

[1access@earthlink.net]

Thanks Debb and ScrapMel. I don't do a lot of designing but do end up doing a lot of extractions (to make up for the fact that I too often don't notice what's in the background when I take a picture!).

[mommysmemories]

I have a tablet that I love. It is definitely worth it. I use a laptop 90% of the time, and if I'm on the couch, I put the tablet on the arm of the couch. I don't tend to use it if I'm carrying my laptop around (obviously), but it does make scrapping much easier than using the touchpad!

Mel's comments were right on - use the tablet exclusively as a mouse until you get used to it, or you'll never get used to it.

Good luck!