Cyber Garage Project Competition.

[Don Bluth]

I would like to pitch an idea to all members of Don's Club. What if we decided to make a three minute short on a yet-to-be-decided subject. I would post the storyboards of the project on the site. You could then peruse the available scenes and choose which scene you would like to animate.
I'll play the part of the Director and you play the part of the animators. I'll critique your scene and you make the corrections. From all the submissions, the best scenes will be cut into the reel. Obviously, this will be a competition, just like in real life.
If this is an idea that peaks your interest, let me know and we'll make plans to make it happen!

See this Page... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)
Cyber Garage Project
(http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)
Don

[lavallelee]

That sounds like an awesome idea!!! I don't know if im ready, but I will try my hardest!! :)

[WillW]

only open to dons club members? aww now I wish I was a member now, that sounds like a really fun Idea.

Edit: scratch that, I'm game now :U

[DarkWolf91]

Ha, wow. I'm tempted to buy a membership just to get in on this. I'll have to wait and see if school supplies don't overdraw my dwindling account first, but maybe I'll spring for it :)

[dmgctrl]

If this is an idea that peaks your interest, let me know and we'll make plans to make it happen!

Don

Well, you heard the man! If you like the sound of this, post your support! I think this would be a very cool project, and who knows, maybe the start of something bigger!

[johncbeggs]

I would certainly like to help and contribute to this project :D
My skills in animation are definitely lacking at this point, but Im sure I can help in some way or another :)

[CanAur]

Don Bluth
What about sound and music? :cool:

[Hana]

Wow! I'd be super interested if I can somehow get a membership and I'm not drowning in college work :D

[fanimation]

My animation skills are not the best yet, but it would be a great learning experience to try. I would like to participate! :)

[Penumbra]

I would love to participate in something like this, in any capacity. What a learning experience it would be!

[admin]

Don Bluth
What about sound and music? :cool:
We haven't finalized the entire plan yet but dialog and music will be a part of the project too.

[Snapai]

YES ABSOLUTELY. Count me in! :D

I hope you'll consider seeking theatrical or TV distribution too, if it turns out OK! :)

Will you be providing the character designs, or will they be done through site contests like the rhino?

[admin]

YES ABSOLUTELY. Count me in! :D

I hope you'll consider seeking theatrical or TV distribution too, if it turns out OK! :)

Will you be providing the character designs, or will they be done through site contests like the rhino?

We haven't finalized anything yet. We'll be revealing more details about the project over the next few days.

[IzzyS]

this sounds terribly exciting!

[johncbeggs]

this sounds terribly exciting!
it sure is exciting :D
their must be something I could do :)

[JayTea]

Sounds interesting. :)

[zanekohler]

Does sound very cool. Like many Time and skill maybe an issue, but would love to be apart on some capacity if possible. Either way would love to see it happen!

[Alexandra Poston]

I'm more than excited for this project, count me in!
I think it'd be crazy fun to practice some more mouth-syncing with dialogue~

[Terro]

Count me in, I would love to participate. But lets take our time with it and make it as good as it can be. This could have a very positive effect on this site as well as the students.

[johncbeggs]

You can definatly count me in :)

[Fainder]

This is mostly interesting, I will keep an eye on this thread and see how it develops :D

[Nanook123]

Count me in, though my experience is very limited! I'll certainly give it a shot!

[Moneyguns]

Wher do i sign!

[cartuneman]

Wow now this sounds like fun........ gotta go buy me some new pegs now!

[admin]

This is going to be fantastic! Don has been working hard all week to get this started. We've already got a lot of the groundwork laid out for the project; the script is almost nailed down and most of the character model sheets designed. Here's the best part... The next drawing competition is going to tie into the Cyber Garage project; I can't reveal what it is yet but I think you will all be pleasantly surprised.
I'll build a web page this week dedicated to the project and post a materials list with general requirements to help you get started.

Talk to you soon...

[johncbeggs]

This is going to be fantastic! Don has been working hard all week to get this started. We've already got a lot of the groundwork laid out for the project; the script is almost nailed down and most of the character model sheets designed. Here's the best part... The next drawing competition is going to tie into the Cyber Garage project; I can't reveal what it is yet but I think you will all be pleasantly surprised.
I'll build a web page this week dedicated to the project and post a materials list with general requirements to help you get started.

Talk to you soon...

Wow..that sounds amazing and really fun :)

[feliceworkshop]

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!
......in a nutshell: my childhood dream came true!....what an opportunity, without mentioning the learning experience in itself!... okay, must seattle down!:D:D:D:D

[johncbeggs]

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!
......in a nutshell: my childhood dream came true!....what an opportunity, without mentioning the learning experience in itself!... okay, must seattle down!

same goes for me :D cant wait to help out in any way possible :)

[lavallelee]

i just hope you guys dont start it before im in my new place with internets (friday may 1st)

[dmgctrl]

we're hoping to get it off the ground asap, but its a really big project so we want to make sure that everything in place before it launches. there will be a related public competition tying in with it that everyone can take part in too.

its a learning experience for us as well, so please let us know how we're doing so the next one will be better for everyone. you'll notice a few small changes being made here and there at the suggestion of other users. you guys as users of the forum know what you'd like to see, so dont keep your good ideas to yourselves!

[dmgctrl]

we're hoping to get it off the ground asap, but its a really big project so we want to make sure that everything in place before it launches. there will be a related public competition tying in with it that everyone can take part in too.

its a learning experience for us as well, so please let us know how we're doing so the next one will be better for everyone. you'll notice a few small changes being made here and there at the suggestion of other users. you guys as users of the forum know what you'd like to see, so dont keep your good ideas to yourselves!

[TimothyB]

What a great idea. And a dream come true to many. I'm just at the stage of focusing on drawing better, so for animation, not sure I can help. Though, the times I've tried on a very minimal scale have always been fun, so I'll still give it a shot for the experience, even if I know I won't be at the level needed.

[Penumbra]

TimothyB: You never know where you might be useful! I've seen people mention that there will be opportunities for people to do all kinds of different jobs on this project, from voice acting to backgrounds to whatever else needs doing. ;} I'm sure that you'll be able to find a spot somewhere.

[lavallelee]

i am looking forward to the project when you guys are ready, no rush though ;)

[Dave]

We've posted a little more information about the Cyber Garage Project. We will be updating and changing this page as the project develops so keep checking back for more details. Click on the link below...

THE CYBER GARAGE PROJECT (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)

Thanks

Dave

[WillW]

does It have to be traditional? could you work on it if you have a cintiq? I have a light box its just not a very good one.

[Snapai]

does It have to be traditional? could you work on it if you have a cintiq? I have a light box its just not a very good one.

This is a concern of mine as well. I decommissioned my light table the last time I moved, to save space - I still have the disc, but I'd be buying a pencil test setup, a bunch of paper, pencils, not to mention the shipping!

I'd be happy to find a way to take the animation out of the software and into a format you can use for your digital ink-and-paint or whatever your plan is (using SWF export, swftools and imagemagick, I can take Toonboom work and turn it into anything, at any resolution)

[JayTea]

We've posted a little more information about the Cyber Garage Project. We will be updating and changing this page as the project develops so keep checking back for more details. Click on the link below...

THE CYBER GARAGE PROJECT (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)

Thanks

Dave
...Flipbook Lite 6, available from Digicel.
You may as well put a link to the software on the Cyber Garage Project page.

[JasonCampbell]

I just joined to gain access to Don's video tips, but finding this little project getting underway is a wonderful bonus. I can't wait to hear more about all of this. Consider my hat in the ring.

J.

[Regan]

I like the idea that this will be done on paper with pencils. It will be great training to do it that way. Old school!!

I can't wait to become a member and explore the rest of this site. Soon I will.

[Digicel]

Don,

This is a great idea and I'd like to help support it. So if you'll let me I'll give the winner a free copy of DigiCel FlipBook Studio (list price $299). And if they already have it I'll give them a free upgrade to the latest release or to FlipBook Pro.

And here's something else we'll try, just for the first round, to help this get started. I'll give anybody that needs/wants it a free temporary copy of FlipBook that will last until the deadline for the first project. All I ask is the right to post your entries on our web site.

So now you guys (and gals) don't have any excuses. You've got free software to help you do the work and free direction from one of the all time masters. So if you're serious about animation this is an opportunity you won't want to miss out on.

Kent
http://www.digicel.net (http://www.digicel.net/)

[johncbeggs]

Don,

This is a great idea and I'd like to help support it. So if you'll let me I'll give the winner a free copy of DigiCel FlipBook Studio (list price $299). And if they already have it I'll give them a free upgrade to the latest release or to FlipBook Pro.

And here's something else we'll try, just for the first round, to help this get started. I'll give anybody that needs/wants it a free temporary copy of FlipBook that will last until the deadline for the first project. All I ask is the right to post your entries on our web site.

So now you guys (and gals) don't have any excuses. You've got free software to help you do the work and free direction from one of the all time masters. So if you're serious about animation this is an opportunity you won't want to miss out on.

Kent

I would definitely like to test out temporary copy :) If you would let me, I may not be the greatest animator right now but with your program I think I can get some serious practice in :).

[Nanook123]

Oh My Gosh!! That's awesome news DigiCel, I was just on the site looking at flipbook lite! The program looks amazing and pretty easy to use for someone whose never animated before! :)

[zanekohler]

I do have a basic copy as it was recommended by Animation Mentor. Pretty cool program! I still have to play with it more myself. :D

[lavallelee]

that is awesome!! i would like the temp version too

[JasonCampbell]

The character challenge? I don't want to miss this go round.

[Penumbra]

Oh wow, that's an amazing offer DigiCel! Please sign me up for a Mac version if it exists?

[Dave]

This is a great idea and I'd like to help support it. So if you'll let me I'll give the winner a free copy of DigiCel FlipBook Studio (list price $299). And if they already have it I'll give them a free upgrade to the latest release or to FlipBook Pro.


My hat's off to Kent from Digicel! What an amazing prize for the winner, and to also offer temporary licenses for anyone that wants to participate in the Cyber Garage competition is truly outstanding.
I can give you first hand experience that the Flipbook program is one of the most user friendly software programs I have ever used. Literally, within one hour of installation on my PC, I was watching the scanned drawings come to life before me on the screen. Within one week, I was comfortably navigating my way through some pretty difficult scenes utilizing Flipbook. One more thing I should mention about Digicel... The customer service is 100% solid. On some of the more elaborate camera moves involved in one of my scenes, technical support for Digicel talked me through the process over the phone and didn't charge me a dime for the hour or so we spoke.
Truly magnificent company and excellent software!
Good to see you in the Forum Digicel...

[Don Bluth]

Kent
Thank you very much for your generous offer. I'm delighted that you have shown support for the Cyber Garage Project. I believe the experience of animating on paper the traditional way will not only be an eye opener for many of the students, but I think they will also develop artistically by picking up the pencil once again. If this project proves to be a great success, I intend to launch others like it. We'll see where it goes. I'm very optimistic!

In the past we have used Flipbook on our commercial projects and it's the best 2D software I've discovered to date for traditional animation. Thank you for all the countless hours that you have invested to develop it
I'm glad to be teaming with you once again.

Thanks,
Don

[GullyStomper]

Please add me to your list of participants! This looks like a great chance to learn, gain some experience and have some fun!

j.

[dentitov]

1. What paper size are required? (width, height)
2. Can I use scanner to shoot drawings?
3. How can I join the project?

[IzzyS]

1. What paper size are required? (width, height)
2. Can I use scanner to shoot drawings?
3. How can I join the project?
for the first question, on the requirements page it said 12-field, which you can get here http://www.cartoonsupplies.com/product_info.php/products_id/87?osCsid=408850c4184f0a5b13de924b5ebf5fcc

[CanAur]

for the first question, on the requirements page it said 12-field, which you can get here
I'm just interested... can we use paper sizes with 12-fld ratio other than the 10.5x12.5 exact size?


dentitov

Wow, i'm glad you're already in, Denis.

Can I use scanner to shoot drawings?
I think the best way is webcam.

[Hammy]

I'm really interested in this one. :) I hope I am not too late! I really should check the forums more often.
PS: will get my membership soon when I get around to!

[Digicel]

I'm sure Don will post the requirements if he hasn't already but since a few of you have asked about paper size I'll just add this comment.

If you're going to take advantage of the free DigiCel FlipBook offer then paper size doesn't matter. In FlipBook you can adjust the scanning DPI or the distance of the images from the camera to make images on any size paper fit the video frame.

[johncbeggs]

I'm sure Don will post the requirements if he hasn't already but since a few of you have asked about paper size I'll just add this comment.

If you're going to take advantage of the free DigiCel FlipBook offer then paper size doesn't matter. In FlipBook you can adjust the scanning DPI or the distance of the images from the camera to make images on any size paper fit the video frame.

How do we go about obaining our free digicel Flipbook offer? :)

[Don Bluth]

does It have to be traditional? could you work on it if you have a cintiq? I have a light box its just not a very good one.

Yes, I believe it should be traditional. So many young artists are saying they want to see a 2D picture again. If they really mean it, we should walk the traditional path. I'm not sure you will get the feeling of the "Extreme and In-Between methodology" with your Cintiq. Traditional, to me, means a return to pencil and paper drawings. Those drawings can be scanned into a computer software without any problems. To my knowledge, the sensitivity shown in the classic animated films has not been demonstrated by any film producer using a Cintiq. I do not believe Disney's Peter Pan could have been animated on a Cintiq.
Having said all that, if you truly believe you can achieve the same beautiful animation with your Cintiq, the option is yours to choose. With that in mind, I want to see rough animation, not cleaned up drawings.

1. What paper size are required? (width, height)
2. Can I use scanner to shoot drawings?
3. How can I join the project?

1) Required Paper size will be 12 field.
2) It is preferable that you use a scanner rather than a rostrum camera setup to import your drawings into the computer.
Any twain scanner will work for PC computer using Digicel Flipbook software. The scanner Don Bluth Animation uses is a Mustek ScanExpress A3 USB. This scans in 12 field paper.
3) If you're a member of Don's Club, you're already eligible. We will assign scenes to all those who want to animate on May 20th. There will be a sign up sheet in the forum this week.

I'm just interested... can we use paper sizes with 12-fld ratio other than the 10.5x12.5 exact size?


Required paper size is 12 field. You can purchased punched 12 field paper HERE (http://www.lightfootltd.com/).
http://www.lightfootltd.com/
I think the best way is webcam.

No, the best way is to import your drawings using a scanner; you will get the highest resolution of your drawings. I may be confused but when you say webcam, I assume you mean Rostrum Camera setup. The drawings in such a setup will have to be flattened with a piece of glass to keep them in true focus. Taking the glass off and on for every frame is too cumbersome.

[Digicel]

Several of you have asked about getting the free FlipBook offer. So here's something on that.

The FlipBook program is always available for download from our web site (www.digicel.net). You can download it and install it on a Mac or a PC anytime you want. It will run with a watermark until it is unlocked. For those of you that don't already have it, this will give you a chance to get familiar with it ahead of time.

Anyone who is on Don's sign-up sheet will be elligiible to ge a temporary code to turn off the watermark during the course of the contest.

[Don Bluth]

We have designed some of the initial story sketches for the Cyber Garage Project and presented them in the format that I will use to direct the animation.

The number in the lower left-hand corner of the story sketch shows the sketch number. The number in the lower right-hand corner is the scene or shot number.

At this time, I have not included the footage lengths of these scenes as the animatic/lica-reel is still being worked on. Be sure to put your name on the Sign Up Sheet (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=179) if you are already a member of Don's Club (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/donsClubIntro.php).

Click Here to see the initial Story Sketches (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html) ...

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html

More to Come.

[johncbeggs]

really cool, :)

I just read it over and am excited to see some more of the story :)
Very cool,The characters you have created really look alive

When making an animated film is this how you would go about storyboarding?
Ive never really seen one before!

[lavallelee]

We have designed some of the initial story sketches for the Cyber Garage Project and presented them in the format that I will use to direct the animation.

The number in the lower left-hand corner of the story sketch shows the sketch number. The number in the lower right-hand corner is the scene or shot number.

At this time, I have not included the footage lengths of these scenes as the animatic/lica-reel is still being worked on. Be sure to put your name on the Sign Up Sheet (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=179) if you are already a member of Don's Club (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/donsClubIntro.php).

Click Here to see the initial Story Sketches (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html) ...

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html

More to Come.


this looks sooo great, i feel very thankful to be able to be part of this

i am very very excited, i am going to give this project 110% of my time and effort

[johncbeggs]

For the 12 field paper, Would it be able to fit and scan in a normal size scanner? Ive read 10 field would fit a normal sized scanner so Im not sure if 12 field will. and is 12 field mandatory or can I buy 10 to fit in my scanner?.

Im new to all this animation equipment :)
I just wanted to know before I purchased all the stuff you mentioned

[GullyStomper]

For the 12 field paper, Would it be able to fit and scan in a normal size scanner? Ive read 10 field would fit a normal sized scanner so Im not sure if 12 field will. and is 12 field mandatory or can I buy 10 to fit in my scanner?.

yeah, 10 field fits most scanners. It's the same size as a regular piece of typing paper, holes included. Just a suggestion, but maybe we could draw it on 10f, and enlarge to fit 12f? If not, we can always scan our drawings in sections and paste them together in Photoshop (or similar photo editing program).

j.

[Dave]

For the 12 field paper, Would it be able to fit and scan in a normal size scanner? Ive read 10 field would fit a normal sized scanner so Im not sure if 12 field will. and is 12 field mandatory or can I buy 10 to fit in my scanner?.

Im new to all this animation equipment :)
I just wanted to know before I purchased all the stuff you mentioned

John
Don Bluth uses the Acme standards for his drawings and animation. Acme paper sizes are 12 field and 16 field only. We also us a Mustek A3 ScanExpress scanner; 12 field paper fits in this scanner. If you use the 10 field size paper as produced by Light Foot LTD animation supplies, you will then be animating everything in a smaller size. My suggestion to you is if you need to go the economical route today, that's fine but think about purchasing a larger scanner later so you can reside in the professional arena.
GullyStomper suggests working in 10 field then enlarging your scans in a photo editing suite like Photoshop. That could work, that is, if you have photo editing software and are proficient at using it. With that in mind, I'm not sure how you could register your drawings going this route since Digicel Flipbook imports the drawings directly from the scanner. It's totally your call John.

[jeremyhopkins]

Here's a link to the Mustek scanner on NCIX (http://ncix.com/products/index.php?sku=34944&vpn=A3%20USB%201200%20Pro&manufacture=MUSTEK).

[Regan]

Wow, that Mustek scanner is only $168 on Amazon.

[JasonCampbell]

Is this the kind of ruler we need?

Link Here (http://www.cartooncolour.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=10&products_id=95)

[lavallelee]

amazon its alot cheaper

Amazon Scanner Link (http://www.amazon.com/Mustek-Express-A3-USB-Scanner/dp/B000WKSZ5A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1241638735&sr=8-1)

today i went looking for a scanner/printer package basically all they had were 10x15cm scanners

[jeremyhopkins]

Yeah I should've mentioned that it was from the Canadian NCIX since I posted it for John. They're still gouging by $26 CAN but since the dollar has been up and down recently and its kind of a niche product, I guess they're factoring everything a bit higher.

[lavallelee]

Wow, that Mustek scanner is only $168 on Amazon.

lol, we posted at the same time basically, i posted a link to it ;)

[Dave]

Is this the kind of ruler we need?

Link Here (http://www.cartooncolour.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=10&products_id=95)

Jason,
For this competition, you will not need that $30 ruler. We'll just be measuring in inches so any ruler from an office supply will work.

[Dave]

Here's a link to Digicel website FAQ page
All the questions regarding this software are relevant but check out question number 3 in particular.

http://digicel.net/faq.htm

[Digicel]

You don't really need to enlarge your images in photo editing software. Just increase the DPI when you scan into your animation software. It should accommodate the difference.

For example, FlipBook automatically makes the images you scan fill the video frame. If you scan a small image at a higher resolution you'll the same results as if you scanned a bigger image at a lower reslution.

Details on how it works:
You need 720 pixels across to fill a standard TV frame.
So FlipBook will scale your images down 720 (or whatever frame size you choose).

Scanning 12 inch paper at 300 DPI B&W (as recommend) would give you 3600 pixels which will then be scaled to 720. The scaling is what creates the anti-aliasing making the edges smooth instead of jagged.

Scanning 10 inch paper at 360 DPI would also give you 3600 pixels producing exactly the same results.

The only difference is how well you can draw in 10 inches as oppsed to 12 inches.

Any questions?

[Don Bluth]

As we approach the day that we assign scenes to you as the animators on this project, there are a couple of things that I think we need to discuss. In a perfect world, I would like all of you to adhere to a standard system of producing your scenes. That system would be the Acme animation format, twelve field size only. Of course there is such a thing as 10 field size paper that would be a similar size to plain old regular sized typing paper (8.5 x 11). You prefer this because it fits your current scanner and there would be no initial expense in getting started, right? If you’re strapped for cash, okay, we’ll bend the rules a little on this end; use 10 field for now, but you are only delaying the inevitable. When drawing smaller images, you will have less control over the quality of your drawings. To make something happen for yourself, you must surround yourself with the proper tools. Don’t start the race with a rock in your shoe.

Now let’s talk about the Cintiq tablet. You may cling stubbornly to your Cintiq tablet; you feel comfortable drawing on it; you’ve gotten used it right? You’ve grown up with it, right? It’s like an old friend. I think it’s great for still drawings. Whatever its advantages, it is not yet a sensitive enough tool to produce traditional classical animation. Recently Disney studios spent tons of money trying to incorporate the Cintiq tablet so that it could produce feature quality animation at a cheaper price. They finally set the whole thing aside and mandated that for now, Disney 2D features would be hand drawn on paper. There are hundreds of tiny judgment calls that the artist must make to create a hand drawn scene that gives the illusion of life. Paper gives you the control you need to make it happen. If you insist on using your Cintiq tablet on this project, I’ll bend this time around, but once again let me say, if you want you make something happen, surround yourself with the proper tools. Don’t start a race with a rock in your shoe.

Kent Braun of Digicel has generously loaned his Flipbook software to all the animators on this project for the duration of the competition (4 months). Furthermore, according to his statistics 9 out of ten professional 2D animators prefer Digicel Flipbook. It's a powerful tool. Learn to use it.

Thanks

Don

[JasonCampbell]

Guys and gals, lets think about this for just a sec, and feel free to lash back at me but what Don is asking here isn't crazy, it's not even that expensive when you stop and look at the numbers compared to what you get out of it.

1) Light Board/Box $42.00 Here (http://www.tigersupplies.com/Products/Porta-Trace-Light-Box-10-x12-Two-color-corrected-lamps__PT1012.aspx)
2) Acme Peg Bars. $4.00 Here (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/89) (i'd buy two and tape one to your scanner for scanning.)
3) Acme punched paper. $19.00 Here (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/89)
4) Acme 12 field-guide. $16.00 Here (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/products_id/158)
5) A small ruler that measures 100th of an inch. This can't be more than a dollar or two.

So starting from scratch you are out of pocket $81 dollars plus the $6 bucks a month for the Don's club membership if you are month to month, this project is lasting five months and if that's all you want to commit to that's only $30 dollars!

If I can put this in a bit of perspective for you, and you may think this is apples to oranges but I would choose to disagree, the cost of the first term of Animation Mentor is $3,050.00. Thats just the first six month intro course, and that is a reasonable cost. Which make the $111 dollars it might cost for you to gear up and join the club to be a part of this project, literally stealing.
Even if you pop for a scanner that takes a 12 field at what, something like $170 bucks, you still won't find a better deal online or off for this kind of education.

I would hope that all of you are familiar with Don, his work, his experience and the scope of his knowledge, if not do some research because it's quite possible the animation industry would have gone the way of the dodo many moons ago if were not for this man. The fact that we have the opportunity to benefit from this is, for lack of a better word, magical.

So if the paper doesn't fit on your scanner, make yourself a guide of what does fit and work in that area just a piece of tap on your lightbox, you get an idea of the constraints you might be feeling working with anything less than 12 field, remember that it's not just about how much paper there is to draw on, you also have to consider the grip area for flipping and rolling, plus it's just about the experience of it.

If you love your Cintiq as much as I love mine then spend some quality time with it between now and the 20th then put it in the closet for a little bit and sharpen your pencils.

This is a singular opportunity and if you don't beg, borrow and steal to be a part of it and respect the few constraints that is placed on being a part of it then you just don't get it.

If you need me to write a letter to your parents outlining just how incredible this opportunity is so they will loan you the money for this let me know I'll do it.

Let's do this and lets do it right, lets do it like Don wants to do it, lets do it the old fashion way and lets blow the mind of everyone out there with what we achieve. If we do this then we can support Don in wanting to do it again and again and again, and who knows in doings so we may make the "death of 2D animation" thread in the forum completely moot.

Best,
J.

[jeremyhopkins]

I'd like to add one more thing to Jason's comments; many directors aren't as flexible as Don is with this project. Gathering the proper materials is like the first test you've been given to see how you cope with listening and reacting to the director's wishes. It's important to listen and learn to get it done even if you feel you can't do it or it takes you away from your comfort zone. If there are challenges, lets discuss them and meet them head on. I know money is tight these days but looking at the boards, I can tell you right now getting this done the way Don wants it will make a huge difference.

If anyone needs a scanner, pm me since I have a spare 10fld.

[Dave]

May 6th 2009
Just uploaded 12 more story sketches into Cyber Garage so you can see where we're going...

Here's the link...
(http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html)

[Snapai]

I think maybe Don's being too reasonable.

No that's not a typo.

For one thing, even though a lot of us have been doing our character design sketches on a tablet (yes it's that obvious), only me and WillW have even proposed animating on a tablet, to my knowledge. And my only complaint was that I'd have to buy paper - I HAVE brooder lights and an animation disc! :laughing:

Think about it this way: from two comments about animating on a tablet have spawned almost a dozen "I really think you all should be trying to draw and animate on paper" comments.

And why?

Because Don's being nice. He's trying to justify his reasons for asking us to draw on paper.
Reasons. He's being reasonable. Not only is that super nice for a director, he's also opening himself up to have those reasons picked apart.

Really, it might have been easier to be a bit more "unreasonable" and just said "This production is on paper" and been done with it. Justifications aside, isn't that the easiest way?

There were several Disney movies done with 0.3mm mechanical pencils. I'm sure...well actually I'm sure there WERE arguments over the virtues of variable-lead pencils vs mechanical pencils - artists can be capricious, but I doubt anyone considered trying to change the rules of production. That just leads to scenes that don't match the rest of the production, even on traditional media. (Never mind that Glen Keane apparently has a penchant for doing roughs in china marker.)

So anyways, I'm glad Don's even willing to consider stuff done on digital (provided that it still meets the "is done using the traditional methods and doesn't look any different from everyone else's work" rule), and I...still don't know which I'm doing. I probably won't know until the day we get the handouts. In fact, odds are pretty good I'll do both, just to compare the methods using a professionally-designed shot. :D

(But I sure as heck won't use Adobe Flash. UGH. :mad: At least give me something designed for 2D!)

[johncbeggs]

I think maybe Don's being too reasonable.

No that's not a typo.

For one thing, even though a lot of us have been doing our character design sketches on a tablet (yes it's that obvious), only me and WillW have even proposed animating on a tablet, to my knowledge. And my only complaint was that I'd have to buy paper - I HAVE brooder lights and an animation disc! :laughing:

Think about it this way: from two comments about animating on a tablet have spawned almost a dozen "I really think you all should be trying to draw and animate on paper" comments.

And why?

Because Don's being nice. He's trying to justify his reasons for asking us to draw on paper.
Reasons. He's being reasonable. Not only is that super nice for a director, he's also opening himself up to have those reasons picked apart.

Really, it might have been easier to be a bit more "unreasonable" and just said "This production is on paper" and been done with it. Justifications aside, isn't that the easiest way?

There were several Disney movies done with 0.3mm mechanical pencils. I'm sure...well actually I'm sure there WERE arguments over the virtues of variable-lead pencils vs mechanical pencils - artists can be capricious, but I doubt anyone considered trying to change the rules of production. That just leads to scenes that don't match the rest of the production, even on traditional media. (Never mind that Glen Keane apparently has a penchant for doing roughs in china marker.)

So anyways, I'm glad Don's even willing to consider stuff done on digital (provided that it still meets the "is done using the traditional methods and doesn't look any different from everyone else's work" rule), and I...still don't know which I'm doing. I probably won't know until the day we get the handouts. In fact, odds are pretty good I'll do both, just to compare the methods using a professionally-designed shot. :D

(But I sure as heck won't use Adobe Flash. UGH. :mad: At least give me something designed for 2D!)

I think Don wants everyone to try and use the traditional methods, He has asked us on every competition so far to use paper and pencil.:D he must be saying that for a reason!

[Snapai]

I think Don wants everyone to try and use the traditional methods, He has asked us on every competition so far to use paper and pencil.:D he must be saying that for a reason!

I'm sorry for being so long-winded. :(

I just meant, Don is awesome, he wants to have us all use pencil and paper on this project - and there doesn't need to be any other reason than that.

Sorry for always being confusing. :(

[dentitov]

Dave,

Can you post full-size image of Acme 12 field-guide? I can't find it anywhere in my town, but I can print it on transparent page.

[Snapai]

Dave,

Can you post full-size image of Acme 12 field-guide? I can't find it anywhere in my town, but I can print it on transparent page.

I found this one on AM:
http://www.animationmeat.com/templates_downloads/TV_12F_guide.tiff

Can anyone tell me if this one lines up to the Cartoon Colour one?

[CanAur]

Thank you!
But it's "punched" only for Acme(?)

[zanekohler]

I would like to participate but would probably not have the time to keep up on the competition level. Don mentioned we could still follow along with the assignments. Would I have access to the assignments or do I still need to sign up to get them?

Thanks!
-z-

[Don Bluth]

Thank you!
But it's "punched" only for Acme(?)

The correct 12 field guide to get is the Acme Punched 12F.

[BrioCyrain]

Sounds like a good idea, though I'll probably just do the drawing competitions instead, but I LOVE THE IDEA.

Also can somebody explain me what the equipment is used for so I might have an idea?

[Dave]

Sounds like a good idea, though I'll probably just do the drawing competitions instead, but I LOVE THE IDEA.

Also can somebody explain me what the equipment is used for so I might have an idea?

Specifically, What equipment are you referring to? Many of the tools you will need to begin a career in traditional animation are explained in detail in our animation tutorial, Nuts and Bolts.
Here's the link... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/Animation/_Nuts_and_Bolts.html)

[johncbeggs]

Im trying to obtain the materials from the site mentioned just, I will in the next week or so for sure:D

[Dave]

May 12th 2009. We just uploaded 11 more story sketches to the Cyber Garage Project Pages.
Click here to see the entire list of sketches... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html)

Thanks

Dave

[GullyStomper]

I'm just making an observation, but isn't the narration a little redundant of what's going on visually within the story? I understand this is suppose to be a visualization of a storybook, but I think it would make for a better experience if the animators get the chance to tell part of the story on their own.

j.

[Don Bluth]

I'm just making an observation, but isn't the narration a little redundant of what's going on visually within the story? I understand this is suppose to be a visualization of a storybook, but I think it would make for a better experience if the animators get the chance to tell part of the story on their own.

j.

Yes you are correct... It is not a good idea to have narration say what you are already looking at on screen. In this case, I deliberately went there because I am not sure of what we're going to get with our Cyber Animators. My plan is this: If the picture is self sufficient, we can simply drop the dialog and play the music track with picture. Mime is the strength of 2D animation. If the animators can get there and be entertaining, I'll be content.

[GullyStomper]

Yes you are correct... It is not a good idea to have narration say what you are already looking at on screen. In this case, I deliberately went there because I am not sure of what we're going to get with our Cyber Animators. My plan is this: If the picture is self sufficient, we can simply drop the dialog and play the music track with picture. Mime is the strength of 2D animation. If the animators can get there and be entertaining, I'll be content.

That makes a lot of sense. I didn't think about the different skill levels involved in the project. Will you be animating some part of the film? It'll be fun animating something for you, but it'll be even better to animate something with you. Is it all that common for directors to animate a scene for a film they're directing? I mean, it'll be hard not to, right?

j.

[OwenWelsh]

Don,

On drawing 23 of the storyboards (when the Fox is getting dragged off by Mama Rabbit) the pan is still moving with Sasha -- Do you think Sasha should stop and look at something... maybe the honey cake falls off, or she notices something (still unaware of the fox of course) so that the camera stops, then we can really feel the Fox being dragged backwards by Mama Rabbit. I just thought that if the camera is still panning when the Fox gets pulled, you wont really feel it because of the pan and there wont be that uncertain moment of "what's going on?" I could be wrong. You might have different plans, but I was just wondering what you thought about how that action will play out.

I can't wait to start working on this project! I've always dreamed of working with you and your team one day. There are many talented artists here. I'm looking forward to our adventure together.

Owen :)

[Dave]

We've uploaded new videos for the CGP. Please see Announcements (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=218).

Don's Club Members Click Here. (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=217)

[barleylegal]

It would be a dream come true for me to participate. I just hope there will be another garage project after this one, as I doubt I'll be able to contribute this time around. 4 months? I won't be able to join in until that time is almost up =(

Oh well.

[zanekohler]

It would be a dream come true for me to participate. I just hope there will be another garage project after this one, as I doubt I'll be able to contribute this time around. 4 months? I won't be able to join in until that time is almost up =(

Oh well.

I am in the same boat with all the work from school. I just am not sure how much time is needed and or how much I can devote. However if you become a club member you can have access to everything going on and can at least try some of the assignments with no pressure of the deadline. For me I hope to be able to use this to gauge how much time would be needed each week. So if it is a success and there is a next time I might be able to participate!

[barleylegal]

I'm sure to join. Probably next month.

I had to pay WAY more income tax than I expected this year. Totally wiped out my savings. (thanks government) Now I'm back to square one. Feh.

[OwenWelsh]

Do we need a acme peg bar for our scanner when we scan in our drawings so that the drawings remain registered? Or do we simply need to place the paper down on the scanner bed and align it to some corner edge so it remains flat and registered... ?

Owen

[Regan]

Do we need a acme peg bar for our scanner when we scan in our drawings so that the drawings remain registered? Or do we simply need to place the paper down on the scanner bed and align it to some corner edge so it remains flat and registered... ?

Owen

It won't work unless each piece of paper is punched in exactly the same spot...and don't count on that.

[johncbeggs]

It won't work unless each piece of paper is punched in exactly the same spot...and don't count on that.

Yes but when I scan my drawings with my scanner I just make sure the papers edges are aligned wit the scanners and they come out perfectly in sync :D

Is that alowed

[JasonCampbell]

They need to be ACME as per the guidelines of the project, so I would use acme pegs on the drawing board and the scanner. Plastic pegs are only like 4 or 5 bucks from lightfoot or chromacolour. I think we should follow the guidelines Don has set for us, it's a small ask for what we get in return.

[OwenWelsh]

I found these ACME peg bars that are ideal for scanning at lightfoot.

Ultra Thin (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/412)


Sloped (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/413)

I wonder which one is better.... I'm thinking of getting the ultra thin 1/16th of an inch one. Any suggestions?

[Dave]

Do we need a acme peg bar for our scanner when we scan in our drawings so that the drawings remain registered? Or do we simply need to place the paper down on the scanner bed and align it to some corner edge so it remains flat and registered... ?

Owen

If you use digicel's flipbook software to import your scans into the computer, you will not need a peg bar on your scanner. Flipbook automatically registers your scans during the import process using the peg holes.

[Dave]

I found these ACME peg bars that are ideal for scanning at lightfoot.

Ultra Thin (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/412)


Sloped (http://www.lightfootltd.com/product_info.php/cPath/27/products_id/413)

I wonder which one is better.... I'm thinking of getting the ultra thin 1/16th of an inch one. Any suggestions?

I suppose as long as they're Acme peg bars, it really boils down to a personal preference for you.

[zanekohler]

If you use digicel's flipbook software to import your scans into the computer, you will not need a peg bar on your scanner. Flipbook automatically registers your scans during the import process using the peg holes.

Is there something you have to turn on? Or make sure that there is a darker color behind so that there is contrast between the paper and holes?

I was scanning some pages in and did not have any luck...but the punched holes where hard to see because the back scanner was white as well.

[Eilian]

Mr.Bluth, (or anyone els that knows :) ) Is it recommended that I buy digicel's footlight or can i try ToonBoom's Pencil Check Pro? It seems like an awesome piece of software. Plus, will we be expected to take the show to fully painted level? just clean-up? or is it just the pencil test stage? Not that any of those stage is a problem, im just thinking of software needs! :)

[Dave]

Is there something you have to turn on? Or make sure that there is a darker color behind so that there is contrast between the paper and holes?

I was scanning some pages in and did not have any luck...but the punched holes where hard to see because the back scanner was white as well.

Got this info from the Flipbook Manual.

Scanning

Scanning is the best way to get your drawings or color backgrounds into FlipBook for painting. And FlipBook makes it easier than ever. If you scanner is big enough to scan the peg holes as well as the drawing you can use AutoScan to save time, wear and tear on your drawings and make sure your images are properly registered. If your scanner isn’t that big then just tape a peg bar to the scanner along the side of the glass and you're ready to go.

You should scan your pencil drawings in black & white mode at 200 dpi or higher for most circumstances. Your drawings will automatically be cleaned up, rotated and positioned in the exposure sheet on 1's, 2's, 3’s or at any interval you select. Color drawings only need to be scanned at about 75 dpi but make sure the Scale to Fit option is turned on unless you want your BGs and overlays to be bigger than your cels.

DigiCel FlipBook works with all scanners that are 100% TWAIN compatible.
AutoScan

AutoScan finds the peg holes in the image and registers the drawing saving you the time and trouble of putting each drawing on the peg bar and removing it. But in order for FlipBook to be able to find the holes and register the images, the holes must appear black. This means you need to put black tape on the scanner’s lid or behind the holes in the paper path of an automatic scanner.

AutoScan is activated by setting Rotation to AutoScan. To tell FlipBook where to look for the peg holes, you need to set the Field Size and the Offset. Field Size is the width of the image in inches and Offset is the distance from the center of the center peg to the center of the drawing. FlipBook normally expects the peg holes to be at the bottom of the image but you can also set it to handle images with the holes at the top.

[Dave]

Mr.Bluth, (or anyone els that knows :) ) Is it recommended that I buy digicel's footlight or can i try ToonBoom's Pencil Check Pro? It seems like an awesome piece of software. Plus, will we be expected to take the show to fully painted level? just clean-up? or is it just the pencil test stage? Not that any of those stage is a problem, im just thinking of software needs! :)

For this competition, you don't have to purchase any software. Kent from Digicel is giving everybody participating in Cyber Garage an unlocked copy of Flipbook for the duration of the competition. If you like it, then you can buy it! See this link... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=118&page=5)
http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=118&page=5

Flipbook will go all the way to color but for this competition, we will only do the pencil test stage.

Maybe in the next competition, we will go a little further.

[Dave]

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/cyber-navagation_new.gif

1. Cyber Garage Home Page...
(http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)
2. Download Exposure Sheet... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/x-sheet.pdf)

3. Character March and Run Cycles... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_march_ru n_cycles.html)

4. Character Turn-Around Model Sheets... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_turnarou nd_model_sheets.html)

5. http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html


6. Don's Club Member Video Tutorials...
A) The X-Sheet (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=7&t=102)
B) Setting Up your Scene (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=10&t=103)


7. Free Video Tip
A) The Pan Background. (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=2&t=104)

8. Digicel Flipbook Offer (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=118&page=5)

[CanAur]

Great! We're about to begin.

[Hana]

Wow those run cycles and turnarounds are awesome reference even if I can't join. I can't wait to see what everyone creates! It's so exciting.

[zanekohler]

Got this info from the Flipbook Manual.

Scanning


Thanks Dave for finding and posting that!

[Regan]

Wow those run cycles and turnarounds are awesome reference even if I can't join. I can't wait to see what everyone creates! It's so exciting.

Why can't you join? If it's because you don't have a credit card you can do what I did and buy a Visa gift card. Works swell!

[Dave]

Thanks Dave for finding and posting that!

No Problem

[GdeSouza]

Here's a link to the Mustek scanner on NCIX (http://ncix.com/products/index.php?sku=34944&vpn=A3%20USB%201200%20Pro&manufacture=MUSTEK).

Thank You. Would not have known about this if it weren't for your post. They are in my area!

[Dave]

Here's an introduction to the CGP. Please watch the video and ask any questions during the animation seminar at 4:00 PM Arizona time.
You may also post questions in this forum and we'll answer them as they come in.

<script type="text/javascript" src="http://content.bitsontherun.com/players/nJTiZBcy-36992-11389.js"></script>

Thanks

Dave

[zanekohler]

oops looks like I posted in the wrong forum...sorry.

[GullyStomper]

I've never actually created a pencil test for a studio before. How rough should the pencil test be? Is something like this too clean?

http://www.ghostcloud.net/temp/mamma-rabbit-jshamblin.jpg

Thanks!
j.

[GdeSouza]

It's great we're starting. Is there a pan Bg layout or board panel to blow up for the background? OR do we make one up on pan paper? Are we including one with our cycle or is that we just important to know the calculation per frame for now?

[OwenWelsh]

I've never actually created a pencil test for a studio before. How rough should the pencil test be? Is something like this too clean?

http://www.ghostcloud.net/temp/mamma-rabbit-jshamblin.jpg

Thanks!
j.

This is rough, on the clean side. Rough is relative to everyone though. Most rough drawings aren't this clean but if you can animate easily this way that's great because it will be less work for the clean up department :-). Some animators can animate very clean and their drawings barely need any clean-up. Do whatever works to get that personality and feeling in your drawings.

[JasonCampbell]

I'm sitting here at 1:30 in the morning animating and what should come on the old TV but "An American Tail" not something you would expect on Encore right after Back to the Future 2. I dunno maybe this is some sort of sign. ;)

[Don Bluth]

I've never actually created a pencil test for a studio before. How rough should the pencil test be? Is something like this too clean?

http://www.ghostcloud.net/temp/mamma-rabbit-jshamblin.jpg

Thanks!
j.

Very nice drawing! There's a perfect degree of roughness in your drawing. Rough drawings are a means to an end. We draw rough so we can focus on the acting/action. If you focus on the drawing your action will suffer. Draw only what you need to define your action.

[Eilian]

Here's an introduction to the CGP. Please watch the video and ask any questions during the animation seminar at 4:00 PM Arizona time.
You may also post questions in this forum and we'll answer them as they come in.

<script type="text/javascript" src="http://content.bitsontherun.com/players/nJTiZBcy-36992-11389.js"></script>

Thanks

Dave

Hey Dave/Don I was just wondering where exactly you'd like us to post our Pencil Tests? Is it here on this thread? or will there be a specific 'sweatbox' thread set up for the videos?

Thank you

Eilian

[Dave]

Hey Dave/Don I was just wondering where exactly you'd like us to post our Pencil Tests? Is it here on this thread? or will there be a specific 'sweatbox' thread set up for the videos?

Thank you

Eilian

We've just setup a new thread in the Don's Club members area for animators to post their pencil tests. You must be logged into your Don's Club account to post.

Here's the link. (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3990#post3990)

Thanks

Dave

[WillW]

will that thread be just for completed pencil tests or can people post work in process pencil tests on there?

[Hana]

Would it be possible to allow non club members to just view the posts? I'd love to be able to see what everyone is doing when it starts rolling.

[Hammy]

I've never actually created a pencil test for a studio before. How rough should the pencil test be? Is something like this too clean?

http://www.ghostcloud.net/temp/mamma-rabbit-jshamblin.jpg

Thanks!
j.

I think it can go a little more rougher than that, I'm no expert in 2D animation but I know my animation always suffer when I try to draw the entire character out than focusing on the motion. There's something about drawing it clean and drawing it moving, when you are trying to draw a character moving you have to forget their details for a while and focus on the line of action more. My animation teacher was awesome and showed us how he did his so rough that it's like silhouettes moving, the first pass was without face or finger details. After he captured that he moved on to adding the details and it works great. :)

[OwenWelsh]

I think it can go a little more rougher than that, I'm no expert in 2D animation but I know my animation always suffer when I try to draw the entire character out than focusing on the motion. There's something about drawing it clean and drawing it moving, when you are trying to draw a character moving you have to forget their details for a while and focus on the line of action more. My animation teacher was awesome and showed us how he did his so rough that it's like silhouettes moving, the first pass was without face or finger details. After he captured that he moved on to adding the details and it works great. :)


I agree. When I was in school we did a few basic animation assignments and all of them involved animating with simple shapes... circles, ovals, bean shapes, flour sacks... etc. I think using those simple shapes to build the animation bit by bit could produce the best results because your not focusing on the details. The approach I'm considering for my walk cycle is to get the pelvis and the feet working first, then construct the rest of the character with passes, planning it out.

[Dave]

will that thread be just for completed pencil tests or can people post work in process pencil tests on there?

Will
The thread we set up in the Don's Club members area will be for completed Pencil Tests only. You can post work-in-progress pencil tests in the gallery.

Thanks
Dave

[Dave]

A short video illustrating how the animator should assemble the Pan Background after he/she downloads the images from the website.


<script type="text/javascript" src="http://content.bitsontherun.com/players/lMk5BsZ5-36992-11389.js"></script>

[Donomator]

I just signed up for this competition and I have a question. Will the animator do the cleanup of the animation themselves, or will this project just be made up of ruff pencil tests?

[Hurricane_Heidi]

Here's an introduction to the CGP. Please watch the video and ask any questions during the animation seminar at 4:00 PM Arizona time.
You may also post questions in this forum and we'll answer them as they come in.

<script type="text/javascript" src="http://content.bitsontherun.com/players/nJTiZBcy-36992-11389.js"></script>

Thanks

Dave

I've been trying to find the storyboards, model sheets and turnarounds that I saw here a few days ago.... but I don't seem to be able to find them any more. I searched my Don's Club Members' home page, but no links there... and the links that used to be on the Cyber Garage Project page seem to have disappeared.

[Hana]

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/cyber-navagation_new.gif

1. Cyber Garage Home Page...
(http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)
2. Download Exposure Sheet... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/x-sheet.pdf)

3. Character March and Run Cycles... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_march_ru n_cycles.html)

4. Character Turn-Around Model Sheets... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_turnarou nd_model_sheets.html)

5. http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html


6. Don's Club Member Video Tutorials...
A) The X-Sheet (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=7&t=102)
B) Setting Up your Scene (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=10&t=103)


7. Free Video Tip
A) The Pan Background. (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=2&t=104)

8. Digicel Flipbook Offer (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=118&page=5)

Here Heidi! I found the post where they were :D

[Hurricane_Heidi]

Here Heidi! I found the post where they were :D

Thank you so much! Your helpfulness is very appealing
(a peeling... banana... ha ha... I am a silly person....... :o .....)

And I do appreciate your help.

Hugs, Heidi

[lavallelee]

welcome fellow floridian! love the name, im new to florida cant wait to experience my first hurricane! :laughing:

anyway welcome to the forum

[schuhbox]

Hey Folks,

Just joined Don's club I found out I am a little behind the curve on the animation test so I will try and find the necessary documents to see what I can do!

Happy to be a part of the project!

J. Schuh

[OwenWelsh]

A short video illustrating how the animator should assemble the Pan Background after he/she downloads the images from the website.


<script type="text/javascript" src="http://content.bitsontherun.com/players/lMk5BsZ5-36992-11389.js"></script>

Hi Guys,

Does anyone remember what the increments are for the pan move? How far are the feet suppose to slide so that they line up with the speed of the pan? Just curious.

[Snapai]

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/cyber-navagation_new.gif

1. Cyber Garage Home Page...
(http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project.html)
2. Download Exposure Sheet... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/cyber_garage/x-sheet.pdf)

3. Character March and Run Cycles... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_march_ru n_cycles.html)

4. Character Turn-Around Model Sheets... (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_turnarou nd_model_sheets.html)

5. http://www.donbluthanimation.com/_Don_Bluth_Animation_Cyber_Garage_Project_storyboa rd_one.html


6. Don's Club Member Video Tutorials...
A) The X-Sheet (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=7&t=102)
B) Setting Up your Scene (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=10&t=103)


7. Free Video Tip
A) The Pan Background. (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/tips.php?c=2&t=104)

8. Digicel Flipbook Offer (http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=118&page=5)

Is there anywhere you could put this so I don't have to remember that it's on page 11 of this thread? ;)
Also, seems that the CGP homepage cuts off partway through its text, and doesn't have navigation to any of the other pages.

[lavallelee]

i think it should be put in the topic "Competition Rules and Information."

ill message Dave and ask

[Eilian]

Has anyone ells received their code for the digicel flipbook software? I've sent an e-mail and had no word back other than the automatic reply...:( Has anyone ells had this problem, I cant shoot my walk character walk for the CGP without it!!! :eek:

[Dave]

Has anyone ells received their code for the digicel flipbook software? I've sent an e-mail and had no word back other than the automatic reply...:( Has anyone ells had this problem, I cant shoot my walk character walk for the CGP without it!!! :eek:

Kent from Digicel is waiting for the final sign up list from DonBluthAnimation.com before he sends the unlock codes. We wanted to wait till after Memorial day before sending the list to give more people a chance to sign up. We have now compiled the list and we're in the process of sending it to Digicel. You should hear back from Digicel soon.

Thanks

Dave

[dartzy]

FYI for anyone still looking for a good place to get paper and guides...I just got mine from cartoon supplies. They have paper you can order in lower qtys for those who are watching their budgets...Hope this helps..

[dartzy]

oops...cartoonsupplies.com

[Digicel]

Now that the holiday weekend is over, we're back in the office and are relpying to all the requests we've received for temporary codes to use FlipBook for free during the competition.

Judging by the number of requests we had waiting for us, lots of you are getting an early start. I can't wait to see some of the results.

Kent

[Don Bluth]

Hi Guys,

Does anyone remember what the increments are for the pan move? How far are the feet suppose to slide so that they line up with the speed of the pan? Just curious.

Animate your character marching in place. When you are satisfied with your march, measure in hundredths of inches how far the contact foot moves from drawing to drawing. That will tell you how much your pan move is for each frame. You may have to adjust some of your foot drawings so that your pan is a steady move.

[Don Bluth]

Is there anywhere you could put this so I don't have to remember that it's on page 11 of this thread? ;)
Also, seems that the CGP homepage cuts off partway through its text, and doesn't have navigation to any of the other pages.

An older version of the Cyber Garage Homepage was overwritten during maintenance. We are currently working to restore the original version and it should be up again soon.
As soon as it is fixed, we will submit a new heading in the Cyber Garage Project forum so it's always visible.

Thanks...

[jtq3]

Am I too late for the DigiCel offer? I hope not.

[TimothyB]

FYI for anyone still looking for a good place to get paper and guides...I just got mine from cartoon supplies. They have paper you can order in lower qtys for those who are watching their budgets...Hope this helps..

So, what is the exact difference between CartoonSupplies and www.lightfootltd.com, they sell the same products, same sell price, same address.

I ordered from Lightfoot on Monday, shipped Tuesday using ground, will arrive Thursday.

I went with Lightfoot since theat seemed to be the heart of the of the company.

[TimothyB]

Ahh that makes sense. Thanks Don! Don, I was wondering if you could have a look at my progress before I get to details like overlapping action. This is on 2's right now, I'll add the in-betweens later.

Any advice on how I can make it better? I'm trying to keep in mind that she's pulling along that little wagon cart.

Do you like the head shake? I keep staring at it and it looks a little manic... Maybe its too much and I should just do a chin up, chin down like Fivel's march? No head turn and tilt?

Thanks in advance. :)
allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>


I'm not Don, so I hope you don't mind me saying something.

The head shakedoes looks a little odd, almost like a bobble head. The neck seems to slip from the bottom of the head to near the mouth, as if the neck was attached to the center of the head. So when she is looking straight forward it looks fine, but looking down the neck looks like it begins to intersect with the mouth or chin.

Just an example of what I'm seeing, not meant to be a suggested change, nor do I pretend to be correct:
http://photos.toonguru.com/bluth/neck.jpg


One other thing that has me taking an extra look is the left arm when it moves back and up, when it comes down it bends the opposite way. Giving it a nice rubberband look, but something to my eyes seems odd, as the joints are broken, even though it's a toon. The right arm doesn't do it. Was this related to pulling the cart?

[dartzy]

So, what is the exact difference between CartoonSupplies and www.lightfootltd.com, they sell the same products, same sell price, same address.

I ordered from Lightfoot on Monday, shipped Tuesday using ground, will arrive Thursday.

I went with Lightfoot since theat seemed to be the heart of the of the company.

Hi timothy!
Yes..you are right about them being the same. I had not known that till I got a confirmation on my order yesterday. I was just excited to find a place that offered paper in lower quantity than some of the others and wanted to share.
Thanks for the correction. :)

[Dave]

Am I too late for the DigiCel offer? I hope not.

I submitted your name to Digicel. You should now contact them for the software.

Thanks

Dave

[dchilders89]

I am considering joining the club and entering the competition. I was wonderng what the deadline for sign up and walk/ run cycles were due.

Thanks

[dchilders89]

Nevermind. I saw the cyber garage project page so now I know thanks.

Disregard last post.

[TimothyB]

I don't know if anyone has seen this, or if it's on this site,
but it might be helpful to those using animation paper for
the first time and trying to flip between drawings.

It's a Don Bluth video tip that was posted on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilFaePXngac&feature=channel_page

[LordDirk]

Hey everyone. I signed up to participate in the cyber garage project. Turns out I will be interning over the summer, so I will be unable to participate.

I plan to finish the walk cycle anyways, as it was one of the finer ones I have done, and I have had great fun working on this project.

Thanks for the opportunity. :)

[Lizzle]

Hey there folks!
I'm so excited to see how this project turns out! There's so much talent here, it is fantastic! As far as I can see... well, not to be a negative nancy or anything... but although I have signed up to participate, I'm not sure if my animation skills are polished/experienced enough to appear in the short. However, as I may have mentioned to a few of you personally, that I would love to participate in anyway I can... including giving feedback about character design/presentation/mood and such. I'd love to keep my name on the project if I can... too bad my animation skills are definitely that of a super-beginner:laughing:

Thanks a bunch for including me, and I can't wait to see this unfold!
-Betsy

[TimothyB]

Hey there folks!
I'm so excited to see how this project turns out! There's so much talent here, it is fantastic! As far as I can see... well, not to be a negative nancy or anything... but although I have signed up to participate, I'm not sure if my animation skills are polished/experienced enough to appear in the short. However, as I may have mentioned to a few of you personally, that I would love to participate in anyway I can... including giving feedback about character design/presentation/mood and such. I'd love to keep my name on the project if I can... too bad my animation skills are definitely that of a super-beginner:laughing:

Thanks a bunch for including me, and I can't wait to see this unfold!
-Betsy

Sorry to hear that. What about just giving the pencil test a shot, just for fun at least? You can start with a march with just 6 extremes to see if you can get the motion you want before the in-betweens, and just use simple shapes. For my march, I had to plan things out with thumbnails. It was easy to create the first frame, but I had to make sure I didn't animatE myself into a corner, where I left say the foot in the back in a way where the next frame wouldn't let the leg stepping forward be too far from the ground to touch as it comes down, or have the back foot too far back to where the leg goes too horizontal before lifting forward.

[OwenWelsh]

If anyone here seems daunted by animating you're not alone! But let's welcome this challenge. Animating isn't for everyone but that doesn't mean you can't contribute in another way. Who knows we might need clean up artists, inkers, painters etc. I don't know how Don and Dave want to structure the different departments (if at all), but right now the focus seams to be the animation. There's plenty to do after that :)

[WillW]

I found this one on AM:
http://www.animationmeat.com/templates_downloads/TV_12F_guide.tiff

Can anyone tell me if this one lines up to the Cartoon Colour one?

This was really helpful when it came to scaleing up my story board images : D Thanks for posting!

[arif]

i am not participating the cyber garage project as i am about to start to learning animation..so, may i also have the opportunity?.....:(

[westmunz]

Hello,
I signed up for the Cyber Garage and I would like to sign up for the digicell flipbook program. Let me know what I need to do.
Thanks,
West

[Dave]

Hello,
I signed up for the Cyber Garage and I would like to sign up for the digicell flipbook program. Let me know what I need to do.
Thanks,
West

Put your name on the list located in the link below,
http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=236

then contact the software designer and Don's Club member at this link here...
http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/member.php?u=187

Let him know you are participating in the CGP and you would like an unlock code for the duration of the competition.

[macprofilms]

I seem to be having trouble drawing the face of the fox. I was wondering if you have some drawings you could post for me. I have the one of the fox as a measue of units, but still can't seem to understand how the mouth works. I tried downloading some photos of the fox from Song Of the South, and he is similar. The model sheet is good, but it only shows him with his mouth closed.
Thanks
Mike

[IzzyS]

I seem to be having trouble drawing the face of the fox. I was wondering if you have some drawings you could post for me. I have the one of the fox as a measue of units, but still can't seem to understand how the mouth works. I tried downloading some photos of the fox from Song Of the South, and he is similar. The model sheet is good, but it only shows him with his mouth closed.
Thanks
Mike

he's actually from Thumbelina, along with Mama Rabbit.
here's a post by JeremyHopkins about the fox http://donbluthanimation.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4187&postcount=2

[macprofilms]

Thanks this helps out a great deal!!! I rented the movie then did several screen captures of the fox running and close up.