Cell Animation

Cell animation refers to a technique in which a succession of transparent sheets have animation stills 'Inked' then painted on one side. The sheets will then be placed in order thus the animation comes together

A cel is a sheet of transparent cellulose acetate used as a medium for painting animation frames. It is transparent so that it can be laid over other cels and/or a painted background, then photographed.

This technique is very time consuming as each frame needs to match the last with minor adjustments made to animate the subject. If done well with enough attention to detail the results can look amazing however due to the fact it can take so much time, certain techniques (Limited animation) were created in order to reduce time and cost, this can have an adverse effect on the overall look and feel of the cartoon.

The invention of the technique is generally attributed to Earl Hurd, who patented the process in 1914