First a few notes:

This is my first attempt at a tutorial so please be understanding. The method explained here is just my way of doing this, there are other methods. Please use this information as a basis to formulate your own technique. And finally this tutorial is done using Adobe PhotoShop 5.0.2 on PC.

Overview of the process:

• You should start by scanning your line-art in at it's original size at 300 dpi. Save a copy of the art at 300 dpi.
• Convert the scanned bitmap to a Grayscale image and then to RGB. Resample the art to 150 dpi for coloring. Do not change the size or dimensions of the art just the dpi.
• Copy and paste the Line-Art into a new channel and name it "Line-Art" or something to that effect.
• Save 150 dpi file as a different file.
• After you have finished laying in all of the flat colors. Copy and paste the color layer in a new channel name it "Flat- Fills" or something to that effect.
• Start rendering all the airbrushing and cuts.
• After the page is completely colored. Delete the Line-Art and resample the image to 300 dpi. Open the original 300 dpi line-art you saved earlier. Copy and paste it onto your color file, it should line up perfectly.
• Convert to CMYK.

I think that's about all. for now.

1. First we start with a sample picture.

Note: I am using a small section of
a pencil drawing but the
process is the same.

2. Make a new layer on top of your artwork this will be the layer you're going. to color on. Just above the layer thumbnails you will notice a small dialog box click the small arrow next to this dialog and you will notice a scrolldown list of other options. You should choose "Multiply" for this layers setting.

Multiply will allow you to color on this layer and not
affect the underlying artwork...test it out it's pretty cool!

3. Now you are ready to start laying in your "Flats" or flat color areas. Start by selecting the "Polygon lasso" if you have never used this tool you might need to practice with it for a while to get the hang of it but it's not so tough.

4. In the tool options dialog box. Turn off "Anti-aliased" this will help to get a nice clean edge where your colored areas touch.