squaring

squaring, in painting, simple technique for transferring an image from one surface to another (and sometimes converting the image from one scale to another) by nonmechanical means. The original work to be transferred is divided into a given number of squares; the same number of squares is then marked off— with charcoal or some other easily removable medium—on the surface of the receiving area. The contents of each square of the original are then drawn in the corresponding square of the reproduction. The use of the grid ensures the accurate placement of images onto the reproduction.

The Egyptians used squaring at least 5,000 years ago. It has been used to transfer cartoons onto murals, to transfer preparatory drawings onto canvas paintings, and to alter the scale of any work in the same media.