Scanning/Stitching Oversized Pages w/Loose Items

by PC Smart

sandbox serendipity (my art blog)


We all love to embellish our work. But things like fibers, tags and other loose items can make scanning/stitching a nightmare. When you move the page to get the second scan, the items will shift and cause a blur on the scan. To make this process easier,place a 12x12 sheet protector on the scanner and then the layout. (You can also use a large piece of clear acetate.) A new page protector will not effect the scan but it will allow you to move the object you are scanning without displacing any of the embellishments. Simply slide the protector over the bed for the second scan and the embellishments will not move. This cuts down on the blur factor when stitching the scans together.
The page protector tip is also a good one when scanning anything that has metal items, glitter, chalks, ink or other stuff that might stain/scratch the glass of the scanner bed. You should never place the lid down over an object that may harm the scaner bed (like shells, keys, etc). Use a black cloth (t-shirt, pillowcase, etc) over the scanner instead. (don't use a towel, the fibers can show in the scan and there is a high lint factor involved)

Note: for scanning/stitching I use either Adobe Photoshop Elements (photomerge tool) or Arcsoft Panorama Maker