Unfortunately, this step-by-step lacks visuals, but it will probably help you get an idea how I go from start to finish!

1. Sketch out type with pencil, usually of the HB or 2B variety.
2. Trace type with a Micron pen (depending on the artwork, .01, .03, .08, or 1) using either translucent graphic paper or directly on the pencil sketch itself. (If the latter, then #3…)
3. Erase all pencil marks from the sketch so a cleanly penned drawing remains.
4. Scan into Photoshop at 300dpi or more depending on how much detail is necessary.
5. Adjust the contrast levels to remove any rogue marks and clean up with the eraser tool.
6. Save as a hi-res JPG and place into an Illustrator document.
7. Live trace the JPG (yes, that is correct) and expand all.
8. Delete all white paths so that only black paths remain.
9. Analyze trace (it’s usually poor) and adjust/remove/add points where necessary.
10. Colorize!

There you have it!