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So recently I've converted an image into a vectorized image to use in making a custom decal sheet...But dunno how to go about doing the sizing or fitting of the images onto the sheet. Any tips on filling out a sheet with sizing, spacing, etc? I'm gonna be doing a custom CSM warband so pretty much enlarged space marine scale, and using GIMP and Inkscape.

If they've already been vectorized, I assume GIMP is the final destination for sheet layout and eventual printing. GIMP allows you to create a canvas scaled to any number of measurements: pixels, cm, inches, etc. Create a canvas the size of your intended sheet (8.5x11" for me), leave a small border (even if 'borderless printing' is an option, I feel more comfortable leaving ~1/4"), and simply print at full scale (100%). Shouldn't have any issues, since the broader image (made of all the smaller images) is already scaled to the paper. This can lead to resolution loss and pixelation if you convert them to common image formats (at scale) early, though - best to create the printable page, finalize the individual decals at larger scale, then scale down and arrange them when transferring to that final page. The whole point of doing the vector image is to retain quality during scaling, after all - you aren't creating paths for a cutter, or anything like that.

As for sizing the individual decals, make good use of the ruler tool. Just as you can scale your canvas in inches, cm, etc. you can also check all critical measurements in those same units. Likewise, you can scale individual images/selections in your chosen measurements using the transform tools. Spacing isn't all that critical - if you're willing to trim that closely, 1mm is sufficient and will allow you to fit more decals on a single sheet. I'd recommend a bit more than that, but leaving 1/2" between everything is just wasting decal paper. Just give yourself enough leeway that you can cut the decal out comfortably, backing paper and all. You can trim the film closer to the image with a knife, after that, if needed/desired. Neat rows and wide spacing make things easier, it's just a matter of balancing ease of use and economy.


Of course, if you're doing the final sizing and layout in Inkscape, I'm at a total loss. Haven't used it in years and only for very specific purposes, at that time. Not even remotely close to a GIMP expert, either, but I recently had a project that required me to remember/figure out how to do the same tasks. Hope something in there helps... and make sure to take nearly anyone else's advise over mine. I know we've got some digital image wizards on here, as well as frequent decal printers. If anyone more experienced had already responded, I wouldn't have risked muddying the waters.