To paint a picture it is not at all necessary to enroll in art courses and buy and buy expensive supplies. Just turn on your computer and launch the appropriate software. In this article we will look at the best programs for creating digital paintings.
To draw on a computer, you need to select a brush and move it around the virtual canvas using a mouse, keyboard, or special devices such as graphics tablets.
The tool can be a pen, pencil or an art brush with paints. When pressed for a long time, the thickness of the lines changes, mixing colors is allowed.
There are special panels for working with the palette. You can apply various effects to finished objects.
The benefits of digital painting include items such as:
- Cancel unsuccessful actions;
- Unlimited color range;
Let's start with the top 15 drawing applications on a personal computer with free programs.
You can use all their functionality completely free of charge for an unlimited amount of time.
Tux paint
The educational program Tux paint was created for the youngest personal computer users, but it may also appeal to adult novice artists. It has a relatively small set of tools and does not have a lot of palettes.
The highlight of this application is its simplicity, large buttons in the interface, the presence of basic models, a large number of stamps, an integrated assistant in the form of a funny penguin Tuxie.
All this greatly simplifies the process of creating works.
By the way, it is possible to make a slide show. The program was developed specifically for children from 3 to 12 years old and is even used in a number of preschool institutions in Europe.
The attractive and colorful interface with funny sound effects offers clear large buttons with tools and colors, and Tux the penguin will show you how to draw correctly.
Tux Paint will help your child develop creative abilities and teach him the basics of computer literacy.
Among the disadvantages of tux paint, we highlight the lengthy processing of the applied effects.
Paint net
At first glance, it may seem that this program is no different from the standard application called Paint, which comes bundled with the Windows operating system.
This is partly the trick of paint.net. The interface is familiar to all Windows operating system users.
But the functionality of the paint.net application stands out significantly compared to the integrated editor.
In it you can create three-dimensional models, draw transparent objects, moving objects and other complex structures. Let's note a very convenient selection tool.
In paint.net it is called by the magic wand.
The program contains a number of integrated tools and also supports plugins, among which you can find a large number of useful tools.
Inscape
Inscape is a popular vector editor. It is often used for drawing graphic systems, as well as for creating business cards, booklets and other promotional products.
Using this application it is very convenient to draw geometric shapes and objects, which are based on several small particles of the correct shape.
A special block is available for working with text and footnotes.
This program is primarily based on its own rendering engine, which means that with proper performance of the personal computer, the process of adding new strokes will be carried out at lightning speed.
SmoothDraw
A program called SmoothDraw is more versatile than the previous editor. There are various types of pencils, as well as convenient pens, sprayers, and markers.
With this entire set you will add personality to your painting.
This program contains a convenient layering algorithm, including an integrated collection of Elios effects. Pixel technology allows you to create high quality drawings.
In this case, the principle of selecting a brush type is very conveniently implemented, that is, depending on pressing a number on the keyboard, the corresponding drawing tool is selected.
It should be noted that the application is compatible with graphics tablets. The downside of this utility is its poor localized interface.
Artweaver
A program called Artweaver is a good raster editor with a large set of customizable brushes.
The application is distinguished by the presence of impasto, which is a unique drawing tool that imitates relief paint. A similar function allows you to create oil masks on canvas.
Over time, this application has acquired enough functions to be considered a full-fledged drawing software.
- Editable hard and soft brushes;
- layer-by-layer processing; Smoothing functions;
- Built-in effects;
- A large number of tools that allow you to change the size and other characteristics of an element;
- And so on.
Thus, we have a fairly good editor for creating high-quality works.
Application for drawing on a computer Paint Tool Sai
A program called Paint Tool Sai was created by Japanese developers.
This application has recently gained popularity among users living in the Russian Federation. The program has two drawing modes:
- The first of which is raster;
- The second is vector.
It is worth noting that each of the brushes belongs to a different mode. The application boasts a high-tech rendering engine, full support for graphics tablets, and its own pen smoothing algorithm.
As with most other solutions, the application's interface resembles a menu from Adobe Photoshop.
However, the developers of this application went even further. Thus, the hotkeys are completely identical to Adobe Photoshop.
This editor can be installed on any Windows operating system, including Windows ninety-eight.
Unfortunately, the application is not adapted for the Russian Federation and the CIS as a whole; the menu is only available in English.
It is necessary to understand that the program is paid, but there is time to use it in a trial period of one calendar month.
The application can be purchased forever for seventy-seven United States dollars.
Affinity Designer
Another paid product called Affinity Designer is notable for having three modes of operation:
- Drawing;
- Pixel editing;
- Export.
Each of the modes has an interesting name - Person. It is logical that Affinity Designer can work with raster and vector graphics.
The program is based on a fairly fast engine. Its interface also has a Photoshop-like design, although the application would be more accurately compared to Adobe Illustrator than to Photoshop.
The set of brushes is standard. It is possible to create your own drawing tools.
An interesting fact is that the developers initially produced this application for an operating system called Mac OS. And only very recently the program appeared on the Windows operating system.
The program is paid, but there is a trial period of ten calendar days. The license fee is fifty United States dollars.
It should be noted that the Affinity Designer developers did not take care of the Russification of the menu and the presence of such an important option as plug-in support.
We reviewed the most common applications that act as full-fledged drawing complexes, as well as processing a variety of graphic images.
Which utility you choose depends on your goals.
Corel Painter will be highly appreciated by digital graphics specialists. This is the best choice when you want to download a drawing program to your computer to work with your tablet. The famous developer offers a developed but rather complex product. To learn how to use all the benefits of the package, you will have to spend a lot of time. And if you also want to learn how to work in vector, you will have to switch to a more functional tool from the same developer - CorelDRAW.
Autodesk SketchBook Pro is a high-quality drawing creation program for all categories of users. Allows you to both process images and create cool art, comics, and sketches from scratch. An accessible interface in Russian will be a pleasant bonus, but in order to work with the utility at the highest level, it is advisable to think about purchasing a professional monitor with good color reproduction.
Krita is no less functional. Artists draw both posters and entire comics in it. The application is free, open source and suitable for all modern operating systems. However, it will be a little difficult for beginners to master it. If you are not afraid of difficulties and are willing to spend time, try it and you will get a truly functional tool.
Adobe Photoshop allows you to apply a wide range of different effects and filters. Creating images will seem very comfortable and quite simple. You will be able to enjoy an accessible Russian-language interface and a large number of educational video lessons and materials on the Internet.
Working with Tux Paint is aimed at quality training for inexperienced users. The utility's interface will be convenient for any user, and the presence of sound and animation effects will attract the attention of children's audiences whose parents want to teach their child the skill of drawing on a computer.
Paint.NET will bring a lot of positive impressions; the program engine is able to remember all user activity and return more than a dozen completed actions, excluding any errors made during the editing process and applying various effects. Paint has a familiar Russian-language interface that can effectively edit vector graphics.
Pixbuilder Studio is distinguished by high performance indicators, while the rest of the utilities from the above selection demonstrate lower launch and image opening speeds. The program contains rich professional-level functionality and is available for download absolutely free.
Fans of a variety of brushes will appreciate the Artweaver Free program, which has a lot of useful filters and effects. It is worth noting that the application allows you to create your own brushes, which will be difficult for competitors.
Paint Tool SAI is a serious utility designed for professional artists and designers, allowing you to create stunning illustrations and digital paintings. The utility supports graphics tablets, providing creative people with all the necessary resources for artistic activities. Moreover, some studios use Paint Tool SAI as a cartoon drawing program. Its functions are really good.
Graffiti Studio is difficult to compare with full-fledged painters and even drawing games for children, since the purpose of this application is to entertain the user. You can fulfill your teenage dream and feel like a master of street graffiti. True, the range of tools is meager - only a marker and spray cans, but a huge selection of colors and shades, line thicknesses will be a significant plus.
Also not included in the review are the wonderful programs MyPaint, Medibang Paint, SmoothDraw, Affinity Designer, the built-in Windows graphics editor Paint, and the raster graphics editor Inkscape. You can always find their detailed descriptions on our website.
Even in ancient times, people began to draw. First they carved designs on stones, then on parchments. Over the years, a large number of drawing tools have appeared. Nowadays, this tool is the computer. There are a large number of programs for working with graphics. This article will tell you how to draw on a computer.
Each Windows operating system has built-in ones. Typically, this is Paint. If you don’t know how to find it, then you should go to the “Start” menu, and in the “Find programs” field write the word “Paint”. Next, for the program to open, just click on its name. Paint has all the necessary tools: eraser, pencil, fill, etc. If your Internet is turned off, or you are simply bored, then you can pass the time by drawing various pictures.
If you are in the mood to create serious landscapes or other paintings, then the Paint program is not suitable. More serious tools need to be used.
Computer graphics can be divided into two types: vector and raster. The latter is a grid of pixels of a certain size. How to draw on a computer using this You can do this using the image editor Adobe Photoshop. This program is rightfully considered one of the most popular and effective for drawing. In addition, many professionals use Photoshop to work with graphic elements.
There are also programs that are not as advanced as Adobe Photoshop, such as Gimp. Despite its simplicity, it has a large number of functions, many argue that it is a very good alternative to Adobe. With Gimp you can easily understand how to draw on the computer.
Vector graphics are based on the use of geometric objects: points, polygons and lines. Its advantage is that you can enlarge the image without deteriorating the picture quality.
The best option for processing vector graphics is the graphics editor Adobe Illustrator. These programs are considered the best. When you are wondering how to draw on a computer and which program to choose, these are the ones you should pay attention to because they are used by professional designers, artists and other specialists in this field.
You can also use Inkscape for vector graphics. This graphics editor is not as popular as the programs described above, but it is good for drawing.
You can also draw using graphics tablets. Are they designed to create images on a computer using a graphics tablet? This tool comes with a pen that you use to move across its surface, and your touches from the pen are translated onto the computer screen. The best program for drawing using a graphics tablet is Paint tool SAI. It simulates drawing on real paper. Drawing on a tablet is much more convenient than on a PC, since using a mouse does not produce very straight lines and your hand constantly shakes. Using a pen, you can draw smooth and clear lines. True, a high-quality graphics tablet costs a lot of money (from
So you have found out the answer to the question of how to draw on a computer. To do this, you just need a drawing program and desire. To ensure that the result does not disappoint, you can buy a special graphics tablet.
So, you bought a graphics tablet. Besides the fact that you still have to get used to it and get better at it, you need to immediately decide on a graphic editor that will maximize all the capabilities of your new device. And if you think that you can only draw in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, then you are very mistaken.
In addition to the globally recognized and undoubtedly cool products of Adobe, there are many graphic editors that offer the same functionality, but for less money, and sometimes even for free. In addition, some programs boast a unique interface with many interesting features; designers and illustrators will definitely appreciate them.
We have compiled a list of programs where you can fully draw using a graphics tablet, simulating various artistic techniques, make sketches, create raster and vector images, and also practice lettering and calligraphy.
Corel Painter X3
Painter X3 simulates traditional brushes, textures, dry and wet effects with incredible precision. Thanks to this, there is an almost complete immersion in a real artist’s studio, where there is no computer or monitor, only an easel and canvas.
Painter Lite
A lighter, cheaper version of Painter offers all the painting tools you need, but at a lower price. An excellent option for those who are just starting to draw and are not ready to spend a lot of money.
Clip Paint Studio PRO
Despite the fact that this program was developed specifically for drawing manga, Clip Paint Studio has gone quite far and can be used with the same success in industry-standard digital painting. The program has incredibly convenient features, for example, ready-made shapes that can be used as a model for drawing poses.
Autodesk Sketchbook Pro 7
SketchBook Pro is a professional drawing application optimized specifically for tablet devices. Drawing in it is easy and pleasant, which novice users will undoubtedly appreciate.
ArtRage 4
A program with incredible tools and the most attractive interface. Drawing in it is easy and pleasant. Focused on creating realistic images.
Xara Photo and Graphic Designer 9
Photo editing, drawing, unusual effects are not all the capabilities of Xara Photo. Users will appreciate the compatibility of file formats and the low price of the product.
Affinity Designer
The program supports working with layers, import\export of different file formats, a convenient navigator and all the tools for working with vector graphics that you can think of. Affinity Designer is something of an Adobe Illustrator killer. The only drawback of this program may be that it is only available for MAC. But the price is more than reasonable.
Inkscape
A free and convenient vector illustrator, which is essentially a symbiosis of Corel DRAW and Adobe Illustrator. Remarkable support for pen pressure sensitivity—a big deficiency in the vector illustration world—makes Inkscape a powerful tool for those serious about calligraphy.
By the way, Inkscape has an excellent resource in seven languages, including Russian, which is very rare even for commercial graphics programs. On the Inkscape website you can not only download the program, but also read articles, study lessons, participate in discussions and much more. There is also the opportunity to become one of the developers and testers of the product and bring useful features to it.
Artweaver
A raster graphics program that looks like a symbiosis of Painter and Photoshop. Compared to GIMP, it is slower in processing, but with a much larger set of brushes. Wide support for Wacom tablet.
GIMP
A colorful and functional raster program for drawing and illustrating. The interface appearance and capabilities are similar to Corel Painter. Wide support for Wacom tablet.
MyPaint
An undemanding and easy-to-use open-source program for digital artists. Allows you to concentrate on creativity, not the program interface. Tablet support is well implemented.
SmoothDraw
And here is another drawing program worth attention - ten thousand beginner and professional artists managed to download this wonderful development for free. You don't have to waste time learning menus and tools - just open a new file and show off your talents using clearly visualized functions.
Users have access to blending modes, layers, virtual canvas rotation, and sub-pixel anti-aliasing levels. In addition to standard painting tools, the application contains special tools, such as graffiti, water drops, stars, grass. Synchronization with tablets is also implemented.
Paint Tool SAI
Don't be intimidated by SAI's clean interface, as this is the de facto standard program for most Japanese anime artists. It also comes with a line correction feature to create sharper contours.
Serif DrawPlus (starter edition)
Serif DrawPlus offers all the tools for working with raster and vector graphics. Here you can create interesting prints, make logos, edit photos or draw using a lot of custom effects, including 3D. Truly a godsend for beginning illustrators and designers, and completely free!
All the programs on the list will be excellent alternatives to Adobe products, even if you are not ready to admit it yet. It’s enough to give them a chance, and who knows, maybe in a couple of weeks you won’t even remember about Photoshop! Moreover, you don’t have to pay for some products at all. Don't be afraid to try new things, push boundaries and improve!
Convenient and easy-to-use programs for drawing on a graphics tablet have become widespread.
This is due to the fact that more and more artists are starting to work digitally, abandoning classical materials to create illustrations or paintings.
However, both the convenience of work and the quality of its implementation largely depend on what software the author uses to work on the tablet.
Content:Peculiarities
Most artists working on tablets currently use software or Illustrator.
This is high-quality, functional software, however, it is not the only one. It is worth choosing a program based on functionality and ease of working with it.
The extent to which they will open will depend on which program you choose.
Therefore, you need to choose software taking into account the technical data of the device. In addition, there are universal programs suitable.
Paint
This application is suitable for artists who are just starting to master working on a graphics tablet.
It has general functionality, a simple and familiar menu, and therefore you won’t need to spend additional time getting used to it (although a novice author will still have to get used to the tablet).
Having a certain level of skill and getting good at it, with the help of such software you can create quite high-quality works. The advantages of such an application include:
- Its presence by default in standard assemblies (although it is recommended to work with those included in XP assemblies 7, 8, 8.1, 10);
- An extremely simple interface and menu - almost every user;
- Quite wide (for a basic program) functionality.
Among the functional features of the program, we can highlight drawing with a pencil with lines of various thicknesses and densities, drawing with a brush at different transparency and stroke widths, filling the selected area with one color, and working in several layers.
You can also act with the finished image - select and copy zones, cut out areas, enlarge, stretch and flip selected zones.
Saves pictures in several formats.
You should start getting acquainted with the functionality of a drawing tablet with this software. Moreover, it can be basic for those who do not draw professionally, as well as for those who periodically make minor edits in graphic files.
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Gimp
This software for creating drawings has wide functionality and significant power. You can download it from the official website www.gimp.org.
Works with all types of graphics tablets, and also with some other input devices.
The disadvantages of such software include the following:
- Quite a significant load on both the hardware of the computer and tablet;
- The interface is quite complex, it takes time to get used to it.
<Рис. 3 Работа в Gimp>
However, it is still considered that the application is intended for beginners. It has quite a wide range of functionality:
- Working with photos - brightness, color correction, adjusting levels, contrast, etc.;
- Photo editing - removing unnecessary elements, cropping, etc.;
- Suitable for web designers as it allows you to create and edit website layouts;
- Drawing pictures - equipped with the functions “brush”, “pencil”, “filling an area with color”, etc., and in several types;
- It has an individual format for saving pictures.xcf, which can save data with a picture, text insert, layers, textures, etc.;
- Simple integration with the clipboard - pictures and photos can be opened in the program by simply copying them;
- Opens files from others intended for editing, for example, .psd;
- The developer's open source code allows you to create and install your own plugins, add-ons and extensions for this software;
- Allows you to quickly archive files.
This software is very versatile. It is suitable for both beginners and non-professionals, as well as professional illustrators.
MyPaint
The program is intended primarily for artists working in classical genres.
It is not so much designed for drawing simple illustrations, but for creating works of art, paintings in the classical style.
For this reason, it has quite broad and complex functionality, and a not very simple menu.
It takes most artists some time to get used to it.
However, it is believed that the interface of this program is simpler than most similar ones with similar functionality. You can download the application at .
<Рис. 4 Работа в MyPaint>
The main advantages of this application are:
- Unlimited canvas sizes;
- The ability to customize the contents of the menu bar, include assignable buttons, etc., resulting in the function of quickly switching between commands and easy access to frequently used functions;
- A very wide selection of brush types with the ability to fine-tune each;
- Function for importing strokes and brushes, generating, customizing and editing them;
- Works with many types of devices and supports them well;
- Unlike most similar programs - it works in a variety of operating systems - , Mac OS, Windows, .
Drawing in this software should be fast after the user gets used to its interface.
However, non-professional artists, as well as illustrators and comic book creators, can make do with other, simpler applications (both in terms of interface and functionality).
Graffiti Studio
The program is designed for creating graffiti; its main functionality is designed for this style of drawing.
Can be successfully used by those who create comics, as well as illustrators working in a similar style. The program has a very simple and intuitive interface.
An interesting distinguishing feature is its relative realism. The whole process of work is reminiscent of applying graffiti “live”.
And as a canvas, you can choose surfaces familiar to a street artist - walls, asphalt, cars, buses, etc.
<Рис. 5 Работа в Graffiti Studio>
The features of this application include:
- Use of more than 100 color shades of paints, such as could be used in real painting;
- Creating drips and stains, applying to “dry paint”;
- Changing the specifics of application, depending on what surface you have chosen (as in reality);
- Changing the distance from the artist to the canvas (the distance from which virtual spray paint is applied to a vertical surface);
- The use of markers and other means that are actively used in real graffiti.
Although this style is not as popular now as it was a few years ago, it has not completely disappeared. Largely thanks to the emergence of such programs.
Artweaver
The program is a complete analogue of Photoshop. But, unlike it, it is sold completely free of charge. You can download it from the official website.
Has the following functionality:
- by parameters: brightness, contrast, color correction, shade enhancement, etc.;
- Cutting and transforming photos, stretching, compressing, reflecting, rotating, both the entire image and a selected area;
- Generating complex shapes, objects, etc.;
- Blur and sharpen functions, image stylization options.
However, in general, the application is more designed for editing existing images than for creating new ones. For this reason, it is not suitable for professional artists.
Rather, it is suitable for those who edit photos and pictures, but sometimes make their own edits and additions to them.
<Рис. 8 Работа в PixBuilder Studio>
