This is an updated and expanded version of the earlier tutorial of the same subject. It is specifically for Photoshop but can by used in general for any application that uses vectored paths.
If you are not familiar with using paths please see this tutorial-
Vector Tutorial
(wasn't there a pen tool tutorial here at Simmer's?)
Also, before you begin here, make sure you see Adlabs gauge making tutorial here-
http://www.simmerspaintshop.com/foru...gauge-art.html
So, now you know a bit about using the pen tool to make vectored paths and have an idea of how to build gauges. Now comes the hard part, duplicating strange and often hand painted numbers and letters found on real aircraft gauges. These unique fonts are very important to the look and feeling of these vintage instruments. If you want an accurate look, you'll just have to do the extra work and give up on available fonts. It doesn't matter how many fonts you have, you never find a font EXACTLY like what you'll see in most WW1 and WW2 aircraft gauges.
One solution to this problem is to use the pen tool and draw the fonts by tracing around an actual photo. But even easier is to find a font that is close and then convert it to paths. That path can then be infinitely modified until it is as close as you feel necessary.
Step 1
Starting with a good image, make sure it is centered and roughly squared up.
Finding good images can be tough. This one isn't 100% square or centered but I'll deal with that later.
Step 2
Find a font that's close. Type out what numbers or text you'll need. In this case 0, 1 and 5 are all I'll need. Get them roughly sized.
Step 3
Create a work path as shown.
*Note a work path IS NOT permanent, if you've got a work path already on your file and you create another work path, the new path will replace your old path. This can be very bad for you if you've spent a lot of time modifying the path only to lose it :P
REMEMBER to save the paths by naming them as you go. You do have history but if you've done this without realizing it your history might have gone past the point of return.
Linear Mode
