Usually what I do is create the edit rollover state on a different layer in Photoshop. Import the whole PSD file into ImageReady and just simply turn on and off the edited layers on the rollover state.

You guys were right. Adding more points made the difference. There are still a few tiny, tiny flaws but nothing that will be noticable. Thanks

For over six years I have been a avid user of (EI) Electric Image from 2.5 to U4. I've found it is a great program for post-production animation. It's modeling program has a much higher learning curve than Carrara, but that can be expected from a higher-end program. It's low-cost is a plus, but it's third party plugin can cost you a bundle. My only complaint is it's "limited" modeling import/export capibilities. It's very limited on that front. Macintosh users can download a converter program from the website. As for the PC users, well your stuck with rebuilding all your models from scratch. Maybe version 5 has more import features. Hope this will help --Ashley3D

The reason I'm converting the file to 72 or 100 DPI JPG's is for file transfer speed. I'm not looking for full 300 DPI rez, just something that will give the customer quality and accurate image size. Is there an easyer way that I'm missing? --Ashley3D

Nivek, go ahead and post your work-in-progress, so we can see how it going. Maybe we can help you out along the way. Kix, aren't you suppost to be on vacation somewhere? --Ashley3D

Are you wanting high detail (each ring), or the whole chain as a non-animated object. Either way use the spline modeler should work. First create a outline in CorelDraw or Illustrator of the chain. Secondly, save the file as an AI file format. Finally, import the AI file into the spline plane and wha-la there you have the desired shape. If anyone else knows of another way, give it up. --Ashley3D

No such things as a dumb question. We have all asked some silly question in our time. The answer to your question is "Yes" they do.

Markd, did it really take 3.5 hrs to render your push pins? If so, what your processor speed. --Ashley3D

Bluetone, no this model wasn't animated. It's intended purpose from birth as a newspaper image. As for what was it done with, well in my book there can only be one..."Carrara" --Ashley3D

Bluetone is right about importing Adobe Illustrator AI files. In Spline modeling you would simply select a plane that you want the AI file on and do a File Import. TJ is also right, in that CorelDraw will also export to AI. Now down to the question that started all this. Carrara can NOT make models of 2d illustrations. It can only extrude them on planes, like cross-section of a aircraft. You will still have to put a lot of time and effort into creating models --Ashley3D

Glad to see them upgrading the server. With all the new members coming on-line it was taking as long as two minutes to download the Carrara forum off DSL. At least now we'll know there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks for the info Kix.