Tips & Tricks 6: Windows Cursor, Opening Web Pages, Precise Mode & Creative Goals

I hope everyone is doing well and staying creative, keeping projects moving forward, and hoping you can find some joy every day in what you do and how you move through your day.

One of the things I do to say creative is to explore what others do—reading/viewing the Artist Spotlight at the bottom of the Tips&Tricks is always exciting. I also like to read for inspiration, and I’m hoping the book I just started, The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin, will keep that spark ignited for me.

FROM THE DESK OF

Mike McBride

Director of Customer Care / Global Training

Tip 1

Changing Cursor on Windows

I have received a few emails from Windows customers that have experienced their cursor changing from the Arrow to a small circle with crosshairs and wondering what is going on and how to fix it.

This happens when the Xencelabs driver stops working or does not start. The link below will walk you through fixing that.

Link to FAQ

Tip 2

Using Quick Keys to Open a Web Page

I have had a number of requests this month asking if it is possible to open a web page (URL) using a button on your Quick Keys. The short answer is yes, but it will require creativity along the way. Nothing too wild – and yes, I’ll make a programmer out of you yet. Totally joking. It is super easy and an out-of-the-box solution.

The other related question I receive on a regular basis that falls into this category also is, can I add an argument to the Run/Open command? Currently, you cannot, but this workaround allows you to do that and start the application from a button on your Quick Keys, Pen, or Tablet.

FAQ Link

Tip 3

Using Precision Mode

If you are ever needing to slow your brush stroke down and make a more precise stroke, I would suggest trying Precision Mode. I use it for drawing fine details in feathers and fur. The link below will take you to an FAQ that will walk you through how to set it up and use it.

This FAQ link will show you how to add Siri to a button on your Quick Keys. This can also be done with any button on your Pen Tablet or Pens.

TIP OF THE MONTH

Creative Goals

Take a few minutes and write a few goals for your creative work and development. Then share them with a friend that will help keep you accountable and on track. Having goals does not mean you cannot change them along the way. Goals are made to be changed and modified as your skills develop and change. Each week/month, take a look at them and see how you have progressed and make changes where necessary.

Remember, each day gives us a new beginning. Don’t look back – go forth and create cool things that inspire the rest of us!