Looking for a cheap paint/graphics program?

Published on December 21, 2004 By ama02 In WinCustomize Talk

Can't get cheaper than free (open source). Some folks at WSU have been working on a program that has quite a bit more features than MS Paint, making for a nice alternative to the limited MS version. Version 2.0 was recently released. You can find the download and more information http://www.eecs.wsu.edu/paint.net/

Comments

ama02

on Dec 21, 2004

I guess I can't figure out how to post a simple link, but here it is again, just in case

Sorry! It's called Paint.Net

Link

Chris TH

on Dec 22, 2004

I've just tried it...

I can't seem to get it to preserve transparency on already-created PNG's... i.e I have some PNG's that have transparency in them, but if I edit & save in Paint.NET the transparency seems to be lost.

Is there a special technique to it?

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digital_trucker

on Dec 23, 2004

I really like Paint Shop Pro. While it's not free, it's considerably cheaper than Photoshop.

Sleeping Dragon

on Dec 23, 2004

I really like Paint Shop Pro. While it's not free, it's considerably cheaper than Photoshop.

I'm with ya, digital trucker. sbgFX recommended PSP9 to me and I have not been disappointed. New version of photoshop is over $600 while PSP9 is a touch over $100.

MikeB314

on Dec 23, 2004

The GIMP is also free, open source, and full featured.

http://www.gimp.org/

ama02

on Dec 23, 2004

I can't seem to get it to preserve transparency on already-created PNG's... i.e I have some PNG's that have transparency in them, but if I edit & save in Paint.NET the transparency seems to be lost.

The program is in beta, and it looks like the PNG and transparency issues are on their list for future release.

I agree with everyone here, since I personally use PSP, Photoshop, and Gimp. I had never heard of this Paint.NET program, and thought it would be a nice option for anyone that is used to using MS Paint. It seems to be a step above Paint (having more features), but obviously not in the same league as the retail giants, or the more established Gimp.

Thanks for the input/feedback.

Chris TH

on Dec 23, 2004

It seems to be a step above Paint (having more features), but obviously not in the same league as the retail giants, or the more established Gimp.

Precisely. Sometimes, using PSP or even Gimp to make minor mods to existing graphics feels like using a sledgehammer on a peanut. I often find myself using Paint, but hating it's limitations. This Paint.NET would suit (non-graphic-artist) me pretty well.

The program is in beta, and it looks like the PNG and transparency issues are on their list for future release.

Fair enough. I'll keep an eye out for future releases.

paxx

on Dec 23, 2004

It still lacks a few necessary features, such as transparency and most of all a selection lasso!!! Unless it's hidden really well, it's a huge lack.

Otherwise, I would indeed use it for small editing tasks. Photoshop is too big and takes sometimes too long to open (OK, I have little patience sometimes) for the trivial modifications.

Jafo

on Dec 23, 2004

ama02 I fixed your link in the thread...

ama02

on Dec 24, 2004

Thank you Jafo! It looks much better now.

I agree paxx, just a few more of those much-needed features will make this a nice well-rounded basic program.

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