I use the pen tool to put some points on the outline, then use the "convert points" or something (that V shaped arrow) to pull the handles and draw curves where needed, then fill the layer white, select black fore colo(u)r, brush 2px, then "fill path" and "draw path (brush)" to get that nice anti-aliasing feel. Smooooth!
No wonder it takes you so long!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Blimey mate - make your life easy............!!!!!!