Download a program for creating sketches. What are free programs for drawing on a computer

Hello everyone, my dear friends and guests of my blog. For the reason that many PC users today want to draw on a computer, it makes sense to discuss the most interesting graphic programs for drawing on a computer. To make it easier for the user to decide which program to bet on, the following material will illustrate the features of each editor and outline the obvious advantages of each of the downloaded applications.

Corel Painter is a handy special program that allows a person to draw cute comics, art and other drawings with a mouse on a laptop or computer. In addition to creating images, this program allows you to decorate finished images with certain elements. It can be an ideal tool for digital artists, as it has a number of differences from analogues. The differences are in peremptory quality and a more serious set of tools.

To create masterpieces, you will have to study videos in which professional bloggers teach digital art. But the result of the expended effort will certainly be worth it.

The advantages of Corel Painter include:

  • the ability to draw on a PC using several dozen brushes of different parameters;
  • the ability to install this utility on most models of graphics tablets;
  • the presence of the "magnetic lasso" option, which is present in Photoshop;
  • built-in stamps, the presence of a large number of geometric shapes, as well as various effects;
  • availability of drawing options;
  • the ability to import all kinds of files with pictures;

Autodesk Sketchbook Pro

An interesting program for semi-professionals to create ornaments, portraits, as well as comics

This program may be of interest to anyone who is not indifferent to drawing and is engaged in art at a semi-professional level. To some extent, Autodesk SketchBook Pro loses to special products from Corel and Adobe, but this disadvantage is crossed out by its convenience. This program will give you the opportunity to use a wide variety of brushes. The advantage is that the license price goes beyond 5 US dollars per month.

Strengths of the Autodesk SketchBook Pro App:

  • at an intuitive level, clear control for both novice users and professional users;
  • excellent speed, regardless of the working manipulator (it doesn’t matter if it’s a mouse or a panel);
  • a huge set of special tools for those who want to become an artist;
  • the ability to work with layers and special tools to create a background;
  • the "symmetrical drawing" option, which allows you to get a picture on the screen on the opposite side of the center line;
  • a rich archive of color schemes and shades (they can be selected from the Copic library);
  • The software may be distributed through a low-cost subscription.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop does not leave the top three because of the wealth of various tools, filters, special effects. This powerful and professional program allows the user to process uploaded photos in the highest quality. For many users, it is Adobe Photoshop that is the benchmark program that all other drawing programs should be like. This utility attracts artists with a simple and understandable interface and a wealth of special image processing tools. The program is good because it is distributed for free, but after a monthly trial period, the utility will require you to buy a license.

The advantages of Adobe Photoshop are that:

  • the user gets the ability to edit graphics of different formats;
  • it is possible to add text lines to any photo;
  • it is possible to correct color, as well as shades in auto mode;
  • available are CMYK, RGB;
  • Russian users can use the program without problems, since the Russian-language interface is well presented;
  • there is a special set of elementary tools that will allow any user to create beautiful pictures;
  • it is possible to create raster special graphics;
  • there is an option to remove the background mode in pictures;
  • it is possible to save graphics in the optimal for the user for further posting in social networks.
  • there is a possibility
  • addition that expands the functionality of the graphic editor
  • Possibility for different purposes

Of course, this is not all. The possibilities and advantages of Photoshop are endless. Yes, you yourself probably know what a cool thing it is.

Personally, I think that this is generally the best program for drawing on a computer, and not only. It has all the necessary resources to create a really high-quality image. Therefore, if you want to really learn how to draw in Photoshop, then I highly recommend that you take a training, after which you will make really cool designs.

But if you want to start with something simpler, then study this course. Going through it is a pleasure, the material is absorbed just fine, and most importantly, everything is chewed in an understandable human language.

Paint.NET

Paint.NET attracts many creative users with its artistic processing and styling capabilities. This utility supports the Russian language and has a clear and elementary interface. A nice bonus is the abundance of tools, as well as the zoom function.

Benefits include:

  • support for a huge number of graphics formats;
  • correction of brightness, shades;
  • the ability to work with different layers;
  • the ability to use modern photo and image processing tools;
  • the function of returning incorrectly done steps;
  • there is a history of actions, as well as the possibility of tracking it;
  • built-in convenient vector editor;
  • the possibility, in addition to scaling, also cloning some parts of the pictures.

PixBuilder Studio

The advantage of this free program is that it is a powerful graphic editor that can be safely compared with popular paid counterparts. The new updated version is distinguished by the ability to generate web graphics, as well as manage layers.

The advantages of this program are that it has:

  • built-in multifunctional editor;
  • option to create pictures;
  • the ability to work with interesting layers;
  • the function of "hot keys", which can be configured as convenient;
  • support for various graphic extensions;
  • launch efficiency;
  • a set of tools for adjusting brightness, contrast level and balance.

artweaver

Artweaver is a progressive free painting program for PC with an impressive range of brushes. The program will be appreciated by everyone who likes to draw with a pencil, charcoal, chalk, and acrylic paints. The program is good because it allows you to work with all kinds of graphic files. Animators often use this program to create excellent comics.

The advantages of this program include:

  • user-friendly interface rich in filters;
  • support for Tablet PC drawing tablets;
  • option to correct text layers;
  • a rich assortment of brushes in order to subsequently process pictures;
  • the presence of a reverse motion function (if an incorrect action was performed);
  • many useful add-ons;
  • completely free of charge, downloading does not oblige to register, send SMS messages.

PaintTool SAI

PaintTool SAI will be highly appreciated by those who already have some experience in photo editing. The program will appeal to those who have previously used Photoshop or Corel Draw. This utility can be installed on a graphics tablet. Progressive state-of-the-art image smoothing technology will be appreciated by artists as well as designers. The version that does not require payment allows you to use the utility for only 4 weeks. After this period, the user will need to think about buying a license to work with the program.

Strengths of the utility:

  • edit a variety of image formats;
  • the texture of the canvas can always be adjusted;
  • can be installed on various graphics tablets for drawing;
  • the resulting image can be saved in various formats;
  • basic features include editing pictures using a special set of 25 special tools that can be customized;
  • hot keys are very conveniently located;
  • You can process several open documents at once;
  • the presence of a convenient Russian-language menu;
  • entered the category of the best "drawing" animations and skins.

Tux Paint

This simple graphics editor, thanks to an elementary interface and interesting animation accompaniment, is loved today by both adults and teenagers. It has a rich system of hints that will help a beginner quickly turn into a professional artist. The user will definitely like the "Magic" section, which includes all kinds of effects, as well as ready-made objects for their fascinating sketching.

The list of advantages of the utility includes:

  • a set of brushes that will allow you to choose the most suitable tool for a particular drawing;
  • good hint system;
  • the prospect of creating unique own stamps;
  • perspective settings for drawing tools;
  • the ability to work with 60 effects;
  • the ability to present edited pictures in slide show mode;
  • interface, which is presented in Russian format.

The disadvantage of this program is that the finished drawn projects are saved only in two formats - PNG and JPG.

livebrush

Livebrush is a modern "drawing game" that may be of interest to everyone who is not indifferent to art. With it, you can create amazing pictures. The disadvantage of the program is a narrow tool set, which is represented only by brushes. But this minus can turn into a plus if you figure out the settings that will allow you to change the thickness of the selected brush, its color and line transparency.

The advantages of this utility include:

  • a huge range of brushes;
  • a wealth of settings;
  • the ability to save created templates;
  • the ability to import ready-made sets of brushes;
  • simple easy to understand interface.

Graffiti Studio is a great utility for street artists

This program will be highly appreciated by those who consider themselves to be street artists. The program was created for drawing images on train cars, all kinds of truck trailers. The user needs to choose a background, a tool for work (you can even choose a spray can, for example). The negative side of the utility is the lack of other auxiliary options and a meager set of tools, but these tools will be enough for true street artists.

Among the pluses it is possible to include:

  • an extensive color palette;
  • the ability to select the desired color palette;
  • unusual backgrounds included;
  • user-friendly interface.

gimp

Another great and free program for drawing and image processing on a computer. She is often called, and for good reason, as she has a fairly similar set of tools. In addition, she has a number of positive qualities:

  • The ability to work not only in Windows, but also in Linux.
  • Ability to work with layers
  • Resource efficiency. Like it or not, it works faster than Photoshop, so it will be comfortable to interact with it even on older machines.
  • Ability to work with all known graphic formats, including original Photoshop PSD files.
  • Great opportunities for working with brushes.

Above were listed the most common utilities that can be called full-fledged programs for graphics and working with graphic images of various formats.

Which utility to choose is up to you, starting from specific goals.

Well, that concludes my post today. I hope that you liked it and you will certainly choose what suits you the most. Do not forget to subscribe to my blog, as well as to my publics in social networks. Good luck to you. Bye Bye!

Sincerely, Dmitry Kostin

Nowadays, the computer has already become an indispensable attribute of modern human life, and the functioning of the vast majority of industries is simply impossible to imagine without automated technologies. After all, the PC provides us with a huge number of different possibilities. In particular, it allows us to paint, and not worse than the best artists on canvas. To do this, initially you just need to figure out how to draw on a computer, what programs are used for this.

How and who can draw?

Absolutely any PC user can draw, and for this you do not need to have any talent or many years of experience and education. Of course, the creation of masterpieces remains with the masters of their craft and gifted people, but at the same time, any ordinary user can also try himself in this art, making something that many people could like.

At the same time, in order to start doing this business, you first need to figure out how to draw on a computer. Thanks to the availability of specialized utilities, any user has the opportunity to draw anything, and for this there is the widest choice of specialized software, which is absolutely free.

Paint

Considering drawing utilities, first of all, we should consider the program of the Windows operating system itself, which allows us to draw on a computer - Paint. In other words, in order to use this drawing utility, you will not need to install anything additionally, just go to the "Standard" section, then open the program and start drawing in a way that suits you.

What are the advantages of Paint?

The main feature of this program is that it is extremely easy to learn, thanks to which even a beginner in the field of personal computers can understand it. The main functions of this program are the ability to draw with a brush or a pencil, as well as fill the surface with a certain color and a variety of picture editing, including cutting out fragments, resizing, and much more. All this allows you to use the program even for those who are interested in how to draw cartoons on a computer. The functionality of this program, in principle, is sufficient to completely correct some minor errors in the drawing you made.

It is for this reason that if you have just started to understand how to draw on a computer, you should start with Paint.

gimp

Gimp is a fairly popular and more powerful graphics editor than the previous one, which, among other things, can also be used on portable graphics tablets and many other specialized devices.

With the help of this utility, you can significantly improve the color reproduction of the image, increase the brightness in the pictures, and also without any difficulty cut out unnecessary fragments from photographs in your opinion. It is worth noting the fact that using this editor, you will not only figure out how to draw on a computer, but you can even cut site layouts if necessary. The program allows you to save files in its own format, which has the .xcf tag. It provides full preservation of texts, textures, layers and other elements.

The utility provides users with a fairly wide functionality, in particular, this applies to the clipboard, due to which any picture can be instantly inserted into the program in a short period of time. If you are at least a little versed in the basics of programming, then Gimp gives you ample opportunities in terms of creating your own plugins. In addition, the Gimp program also has the ability to archive the created images.

MyPaint

This graphic editor is more intended only for beginners. To do this, an extremely simple and user-friendly interface has been developed here, allowing even beginners to easily draw on a computer. The program offers a huge set of brushes, thanks to which you can realize yourself to the fullest, drawing with this utility in the same way as on a real canvas. If we talk about the characteristic advantages of this editor, it is worth highlighting the following:

  • It supports tablets, that is, you can not only draw on a computer, but also use this program on mobile gadgets, drawing in any place convenient for you.
  • It is possible to configure quick commands, which allows advanced users to work with this utility much more quickly and conveniently.
  • Huge variety of drawing tools. It also provides the ability to create or import additional tools, which is especially nice for those who are thinking about how to learn how to draw on a computer.
  • The canvas has no boundaries, which allows you to fully realize some of your ideas. The only thing worth noting is that you still need to fit within certain limits if you want other users to be able to view the entire image on their monitors.
  • The utility supports absolutely all common operating systems today.

Thanks to this, the program is now actively used by those people who prefer to draw on a computer.

graffiti studio

Graffiti fans will definitely appreciate a utility like Graffiti Studio. The simplicity and realism of this utility make you fall in love with it literally at first sight. Users are offered the opportunity to choose from a number of different canvases, which can be used as buses, wagons, walls, as well as other surfaces popular among lovers of this art.

It is worth noting that the main panel of this program offers a fairly wide palette of colors. In addition, it is possible to use a variety of effects, including smudges, markers, maintaining a certain distance from the surface, as well as many other elements.

SmoothDraw

Using this graphics editor, the user can draw anything on the computer, as the program offers the widest functionality regarding the creation and subsequent editing of various images. It is worth noting that this utility was originally aimed specifically at drawing from a white sheet, and not at editing ready-made images.

The functionality of this utility offers a huge number of a wide variety of design and artistic tools, including all kinds of pencils, brushes, pens, pens, and many others. A distinctive feature of the program is an extremely clear and convenient interface, as well as the ability to work with tablets.

artweaver

In terms of capabilities, as well as the functionality provided, this editor will be able to compete with the vaunted Adobe Photoshop, which is today recognized as the leader in its field, but is paid, and for this reason it is not considered in our case. This utility offers an imitation of drawing with oil, paint, pencil, brush, chalk and any other tools, while providing the ability to work with different layers.

Speaking from the point of view of editing, here the utility allows you to compress or convert files to other formats.

PixBuilder Studio

"Mini Photoshop" - this is how this utility is often called by many users who are interested in how to draw on a computer. The program provides a fairly large number of popular and most demanded today functions and features offered by paid Photoshop.

In particular, it is worth noting that this program provides an editor for brightness and contrast, and also offers a fairly large number of tools that allow you to transform an image. Using PixBuilder, you can create a wide variety of complex images and objects, and special attention should be paid to the fact that the program has a very, very interesting function of blurring the picture, which further expands the boundaries for creativity. In particular, these effects will be important for those who are interested in how to draw anime on a computer.

In terms of image editing, the program offers the ability to resize, as well as rotate or rotate the image. All this makes PixBuilder Studio one of the most successful image editing programs in existence today. Regardless of whether you are looking for how to draw a pony on a computer or how to make a full-fledged landscape, the program will provide you with the functionality you need.

inkscape

Inkscape is a specialized vector image editor, which is a completely free version of Corel Draw. This utility is designed to draw with vectors or directional segments, which is its distinctive feature. If we talk about the advantages of drawing in this format, it is worth highlighting the fact that vector drawings absolutely do not lose quality if the user decides to change the resolution.

However, most often such a utility is popular, of course, not among those who are looking for how to draw a pony on a computer, but more in the field of printing.

live brush

LiveBrush is quite popular today due to the fact that it is one of the most understandable and simple among all the utilities that exist today. The main distinguishing feature of the program is a fairly large number of options for editing pictures, as well as the fact that in this case we draw using a computer exclusively with a brush.

Of course, at first it may seem that using a single tool can somewhat reduce the user's options, but in reality you can do things with this program that you have not done with any other utility. Here you can choose from a huge variety of both the brushes themselves and additional settings for them. If necessary, you can download the brush yourself from the Internet or even make it. It is worth noting that in this case, the concept of “brush” provides for a tool that can not only draw standard lines, but even think about how to draw cartoons on a computer. It is for this reason that those people who prefer to work with graphic portraits will definitely appreciate the capabilities of the described program.

So, you bought a graphics tablet. In addition to the fact that you still have to get used to it and "fill your hand", you need to immediately decide on a graphic editor that will reveal all the possibilities of your new device to the maximum. And if you think that you can only draw in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, then you are greatly mistaken.

In addition to the world-famous and undoubtedly cool Adobe products, 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 that designers and illustrators will definitely appreciate.

We have compiled a list of programs where you can fully draw with a graphics tablet, imitating various artistic techniques, make sketches, create raster and vector images, and practice lettering and calligraphy.

Corel Painter X3

Painter X3 simulates traditional brushes, textures, dry and wet effects to incredible accuracy. Thanks to this, there is an almost complete immersion in a real artist's studio, where there is no computer and monitor, only an easel and canvas.

Painter Lite

The lighter and cheaper version of Painter offers all the necessary painting tools, but at a lower price. A great option for those who are just starting to draw and are not ready for significant spending.

Clip Paint Studio PRO

Although this program was developed specifically for drawing manga, Clip Paint Studio has gone quite far and can be used in industry-standard digital painting with the same success. The program has incredibly handy features, such as ready-made shapes that you can use as a nature 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 will undoubtedly be appreciated by novice users.

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 - not all the possibilities 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 a kind of Adobe Illustrator killer. The only drawback of this program may be that it is only for MAC. But the price is more than pleasant.

inkscape

Free and handy vector illustrator, which is essentially a symbiosis of CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator. The remarkable support for pen pressure sensitivity, a big shortage in the vector illustration world, makes Inkscape a powerful tool for those who are serious about calligraphy.

By the way, Inkscape has an excellent resource in seven languages, including Russian, which is a rarity 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 an 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. Broad Wacom tablet support.

GIMP

Colorful and functional raster program for drawing, illustrating. In terms of interface appearance and capabilities, it is similar to Corel Painter. Broad Wacom tablet support.

MyPaint

A resource-friendly and easy-to-use open-source software for digital artists. Allows you to concentrate on creativity, not the program interface. Tablet support is well implemented.

SmoothDraw

And here is another noteworthy drawing program - ten thousand beginners and professional artists managed to download this wonderful development for free. You don't have to spend time learning menus and tools - just open a new file and show off your talents with clear visualized features.

Blending modes, layers, virtual canvas rotation, sub-pixel anti-aliasing are available to users. 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 the clean SAI interface, as this is the de facto program standard for most Japanese anime artists. It also has a line correction function to create sharper contours.

Serif Draw Plus (starter edition)

Serif DrawPlus offers all the tools to work 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 novice illustrators and designers, moreover, completely free of charge!

All of the programs on the list will make great alternatives to Adobe products, even if you're not ready to admit it just 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, for some products you don’t have to pay at all. Don't be afraid to try new things, push boundaries and improve!

In addition to the well-known graphic editor Photoshop and the standard Paint, there are various free drawing programs for PC. And they are no worse than the same Photoshop. And some drawing games for the computer even surpass it. For example, ease of use.

What program is best for drawing? It's up to you to decide. And to simplify this task, below are the best software for drawing on a PC.

The list is divided into two parts. The first one contains simple drawing programs that are suitable for amateurs and even for children 5-6 years old. And in the second - professional software in which you can draw graffiti, anime, artistic paintings with a brush (it is also suitable for graphics tablets).

Let's start with simple applications where you can draw on your PC. They are easy to use, so they are suitable for children and beginners who want to try their hand at this business.

Once again, I remind you that all applications are free, and you can easily find them on the office. websites (links below).

Paint.NET is a simple drawing program. Despite the similar name, this is not the default Paint that comes with Windows. Although very similar.

Paint.NET has a simple and informative panel, so it's not hard to figure it out. There are also floating windows that perform additional functions. They are translucent and do not interfere with editing pictures.

The main advantages of this software:

  • layer support;
  • import of external files;
  • support for hotkeys (standard buttons are listed in the "Window" item);
  • good functionality;
  • takes up little space;
  • completely in Russian.

Easy to use and free, this drawing program is great for kids. For the first time, its capabilities will be more than enough.

SmoothDraw - draw from scratch

SmoothDraw - allows you to edit images or create your own, since the functionality allows this. Great for those who like to draw from scratch - after all, this is what it is intended for.

Its main advantages:

  • a huge toolkit (virtual canvas rotation, anti-aliasing, various blending modes);
  • painting tools: grass, raindrops, stars, graffiti;
  • synchronization with tablets.

Thanks to this functionality, it is suitable even for experienced artists. The only negative is that there is no Russian language. But SmoothDraw's interface is so simple that even kids can figure it out.

By the way, this program does not need to be installed because it is a portable version. That is, you can save it to a USB flash drive, and then use it on any PC or laptop.

MyPaint - app for tablets

MyPaint is a free graphic drawing program. Designed for tablets, but can also be used on PC.

The MyPaint app is designed for beginners and hobbyists. Turns the screen of a tablet or computer into a real artistic canvas (hiding all elements). Thanks to this, you can draw whatever your heart desires.

Its main advantages:

  • a large selection of brushes (+ it is possible to create your own, as well as import ready-made ones);
  • support for quick commands;
  • works on Windows, Linux, Mac OS.

Thus, if you are looking for children's programs for painting with a brush, try the MyPaint application. It is possible that your child will like it very much. Link to office MyPaint website.

LiveBrush - application for drawing tablets

Its main feature: the presence of only one tool - brushes.

On the one hand, it seems to be not convenient, but on the other hand, you can realize any of your ideas. Just grab a brush and go!

LiveBrush is a great drawing tool for kids. Among its main advantages are:

  • vector patterns;
  • a large set of brushes (you can combine them, create your own or find ready-made ones on the Internet);
  • full compatibility with the tablet (the application recognizes the tilt of the brush and the pressure on the display).

In a word, this is an ideal drawing program for children. Especially if you have a graphics tablet. Link to office website .

Tux Paint - drawing for kids

If you want a simple drawing program for kids, try Tux Paint. This drawing was created for kids from 3 years old and is used in many preschool institutions for teaching computer literacy.

Its main advantages:

  • bright interface that kids will love;
  • cool sound effects;
  • support for Windows XP, Vista, 7, Linux and Mac OS.

And there is also a funny penguin Tux - a virtual assistant who will teach you how to draw correctly. The application is completely free (link to official website).

Professional drawing programs

This completes the list of amateur and children's drawing programs. Now let's take a look at the top drawing programs designed for professionals.

Gimp is a functional application

Gimp is a powerful drawing program for your computer. In terms of functionality, it almost caught up with Photoshop, but unlike it, it is free.

Main advantages:

  • a huge number of effects for editing images;
  • wide functionality for creating drawings from scratch;
  • it is possible to create a web resource design;
  • on-the-fly image archiving;
  • graphics tablet support.

Inkscape - draw vector graphics

Inkscape is a vector drawing program.

The main advantage of vector graphics is the ability to resize images while maintaining quality. Therefore, this application is often used in the printing industry.

This program supports:

  • various operations with contours;
  • copying styles;
  • gradient editing;
  • working with layers.

There is also a list of hotkeys and a function to export drawings to any format. Another plus is the presence of the Russian language. Link to office Inkscape website.

Artweaver is a free alternative to Photoshop

Artweaver is a professional drawing program that is in no way inferior to Photoshop in terms of functionality. Moreover, it even surpasses it in some functions.

For example, this application can:

  • record video while drawing (ideal for creating video tutorials);
  • work in the "cloud" (allows you to draw an image together with other artists online);
  • imitate drawing with a brush, oil, paint, pencil and other tools.

Of course, all the standard options are in place here. Therefore, if you need a free professional drawing program, go to the office. website .

PixBuilder Studio - the second analogue of Photoshop

Another professional program for drawing on a computer is PixBuilder Studio. It is also similar to Photoshop, but unlike the previous version, it supports the Russian language.

Its main functions:

  • creation of raster and web graphics;
  • high-quality blur and sharpening effects;
  • multi-stage cancellation of operations.

Graffiti Studio - for graffiti lovers

This is a unique program for drawing graffiti. Designed more for fun, but fans of street art will definitely like it.

Its main features:

  • background selection (cars, buses, walls, etc.);
  • huge color palette (more than 100 colors);
  • realistic options (adding smudges, using markers, etc.).

And most importantly - the drawings are obtained as real. That's what this app is all about. Link to download Graffiti Studio.

Paint Tool SAI - for anime fans

And the last one on this list is an anime drawing program. If you've always dreamed of drawing manga characters, you can try your hand at Paint Tool SAI. Although this application is also suitable for creating portraits and landscapes.

The main features of the program for drawing anime:

  • many brushes;
  • pencils of various softness;
  • a set of useful tools (there is a fine-tuning of each of them).

It also supports working with several drawings at once and combining them through layers. Link

Welcome all!

If earlier, to draw a picture, you needed a brush, easel, paints, etc. things, but now you can create without leaving your computer! Moreover, I want to note that the pictures created in some editor on a computer also cause great delight (as if it were a picture on canvas)!

I will add that many mistakenly believe that it is easier to draw a picture on a computer than on a canvas. Moving the cursor (or even drawing with a graphics tablet) is no easier or faster!

Actually, this article is about tools - to draw a picture, you need special programs for drawing (note: graphic editors). Here they will be discussed below. (by the way, I will add that I chose free programs with support for all popular Windows: 7, 8, 10 (32|64 bits)) . So...

By the way!I have another article on my blog about drawing. There is a special sites that allow you to create paintings online, meet other artists, find common ideas. See this article for more on this:

List of the best programs. Let's start drawing?

Before moving on to programs, I would like to dwell on one important issue - the type of computer graphics. In general, there are two main types - vector and raster charts.

Raster drawing It is a canvas on which there are many multi-colored dots (pixels). Together, all these points look to the human eye, like some kind of picture (or photo).

Vector drawing consists of entities: line, segment, square, ellipse, etc., which are all interconnected. All these entities also form the most diverse pictures.

The main advantage of a vector drawing over a raster one is the ability to transform it in any way (for example, increase it) without losing quality. The computer, in fact, only needs to recalculate your picture according to the mat. formulas.

Raster graphics are convenient for creating high-quality photos and digital drawings. The most popular bitmap image formats are JPEG and PNG. It is raster graphics that are most popular in our time (and that is why, in my article, the main focus is on programs for working with it).

Vector editors in the article: Gravit, DrawPlus, Inkscape.

Raster editors in the article: Paint, Gimp, ArtWeaver and more...

Paint

Raster editor

Basic program in Windows

How to run: find it in the START menu, or press the Win + R buttons, enter the mspaint command in the open line and press Enter.

A very simple graphics editor designed not even for drawing, but for easy editing of pictures (add an inscription, an arrow, wipe something, cut one piece of the picture and paste it into another, save the screenshot, etc.).

Professionally, of course, you can hardly draw anything in Paint, but if we are talking about some very simple drawings, then the program can be used. At least if you are only at the very beginning of the journey, then why not try? ☺

gimp

Raster editor (partly vector)

The GNU Image Manipulation Program (or GIMP for short) is a very powerful free and multi-purpose image editor. This editor is very versatile: it can be used for drawing, or as a program for retouching digital photos, as a program for processing a package of pictures and publishing them (+ converting one format to another).

In addition, there are very interesting opportunities for creating step-by-step commands (scripts) that will automate routine tasks (and scripts can be really complex)!

Main advantages:

  • drawing pictures and posters;
  • support for graphics tablets (Wacom, Genius, etc.);
  • draw web designs for sites, edit ready-made layouts from Photoshop;
  • you can refresh your old photos, make them more juicy and bright;
  • or poster;
  • remove unnecessary elements from photos (a bad shot can become a good one!);
  • a huge collection of plug-ins for GIMP will allow you to solve a wide variety of tasks;
  • program support Windows, Mac, Linux.

ArtWeaver

Raster editor (some analogue of Photoshop)

This program repeats many of the tools of such a popular editor as Adobe Photoshop. To edit ready-made pictures and draw new ones, there are a bunch of ready-made brushes of all types and sizes, different modes, pencil imitation, ink pen, oil brush, etc.

Main advantages:

  • support for all popular graphic formats: GIF, JPEG, PCX, TGA, TIFF, PNG (including PSD and AWD);
  • a huge number of tools for editing pictures: gradients, selections, fillings, etc.;
  • plugin support;
  • the presence of convenient tools for drawing: brushes, pencils, etc .;
  • support for a graphics tablet (a BIG plus for those who like to draw);
  • many different filters: spot, blur, mosaic, masking, etc.;
  • working with text layers;
  • the possibility of consecutive undoing of their actions.
  • support for all popular versions of Windows.

MyPaint

Raster editor

MyPaint - painted portrait of a girl

A popular raster graphics editor designed more for digital artists (those who like to draw). Represents an unlimited canvas (sheet) and a relatively simple interface on GTK +, without distracting the artist from the creative process - drawing.

Unlike the same Gimp, MyPaint has much less graph functionality. editor, but to your attention a huge dimensionless canvas; a large number of brushes, for a variety of tasks and for different functions (there are a lot of brushes, see the screen above).

MyPaint is a tool for painting with brushes on a PC screen in much the same way as you would on a real canvas. In addition to brushes, there are: crayons, charcoal, pencils, etc. It is difficult to resist if there is a craving for drawing ...

Main features:

  • the program is specifically designed for drawing, so it has fewer options for editing existing pictures (that is, there are no functions such as selection, scaling, etc.);
  • a huge set of brushes that can be customized: create and change groups, blur, mix colors, etc.;
  • the program supports graphics tablet;
  • the boundless canvas is very convenient in the process of drawing - nothing holds you back while creating;
  • layer support: copy, paste, transparency settings, etc.;
  • supported by Windows, Mac OS, Linux.

SmoothDraw

Raster

A free program for painting and those who like to draw by hand on a computer. The interface of the program is very simple, designed so that anyone who has just started as an artist can immediately start creating, without wasting time studying.

I want to immediately note that the program has a lot of brushes (pen, brush, airbrush, pencil, etc.), there are tools for retouching, working with layers, you can change the brightness, contrast, colors of pictures, add some effects .

Program features:

  • many types of brushes for drawing: pencil, chalk, pen, airbrush, brush, spray, etc.;
  • works with tablet PCs, supports graphic tablets;
  • works with the following image formats: PNG, BMP, JPEG, JPG, TGA, JIF, GIF and TIFF;
  • there are photo retouching tools;
  • work with layers;
  • the possibility of color correction;
  • compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10.

Note! For SmoothDraw to work, you must have at least NET Framework version v2.0 on Windows.

Paint.NET

Raster

Paint.NET is a free picture and photo editor for Windows. The main difference from other programs is that it uses an intuitive and innovative interface with support for layers, a dimensionless canvas, special effects, useful and powerful editing tools (analogues of which are only in paid products).

Active and growing online support will help in case of non-standard problems. In addition, a lot of instructions have been written for the program, add. plugins to expand the possibilities.

Peculiarities:

  • free for distribution and use;
  • user-friendly interface (somewhat similar to Photoshop);
  • you can work with multiple documents at the same time;
  • support for working with layers;
  • a large number of instructions;
  • the program is optimized to work with 2 and 4 core modern processors;
  • supported by all popular Windows: XP, 7, 8, 10.

livebrush

Raster

livebrush(translated from English "live brush") - a powerful graphics editor that allows you to draw with brushes. Moreover, I want to note right away that the “drawing tool” is not simple, with its help you can create quite interesting pictures, decorate art with beautiful strokes and lines, etc.

In the process of work, you can pick up and adjust the brush so that during its movement - the line under the brush will change its thickness, color, transparency, tip rotation, depending on your mouse movement speed, pressing speed, etc.

By the way, those who have a graphics tablet will be able to fully experience the benefits of Livebrush, because it also understands the force of pressing and its inclinations.

The set of the program has a lot of brushes of different shapes: from simple lines to patterned gothic ornaments. By the way, any pattern can be corrected by yourself by switching to pencil editing.

In addition, you can draw a pattern yourself and save it as a template. You can import ready-made brush sets, projects, decorations into the program. By the way, they can be found in huge numbers on the official forum of the program.

In general, my verdict is that the program is very convenient, interesting, and deserves the attention of all drawing lovers!

Inkscape (Inkscape)

Vector editor (one of the few)

Free analogues: Gravit, DrawPlus

Paid counterparts: CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator

Inkscape is a free vector editor, one of the few that can partially replace such monsters as Corel Draw and Adobe Illustrator. The application has a fairly standard interface: a color palette, menus, tools. The program supports all major graphic formats: SVG, PDF, AI, PS, EPS, CorelDRAW.

By the way, Inkscape also has tools from the bitmap editor - for example, it supports various types of blending. In addition to drawing some geometric shapes, the program supports extensive work with text: you can write text along curved lines. Looks very cool and unusual.

The application has a fairly large number of filters, extensions, etc. in its arsenal. All this is available at the office. program website.

Gravity

Vector editor (online version)

Gravity- quite an interesting vector editor. Of course, he will not be able to replace Adobe Illustrator, but he will be able to argue with the previous program (Inkscape).

Of the tools, there is all the most basic: feathers, lines, intersection and carving of shapes from each other, alignment, layers, fonts, etc. Works can be exported to SVG format, to several bitmaps. Also in the program you can open the work made in Adobe Illustrator.

What is somewhat surprising is that Gravit looks like a real program while running in a browser window, and without the use of Flash. Of the main shortcomings, I would single out the lack of the Russian language.

By the way, Gravit has an interesting implementation of the canvas selection: you can choose both standard formats for sheets, business cards, postcards, as well as create covers for popular social networks, phone screens, and other gadgets.

In general, an interesting editor that deserves attention.

Draw Plus

Vector

A very flexible and powerful graphics editor that allows its users to create high-quality illustrations. This program will allow you to fully reveal your abilities in drawing.

DrawPlus has many tools that will allow you to easily and quickly create a variety of shapes, strokes, lines. Each of the elements can be combined with others and gradually everything in the complex will become a rather complex, but beautiful illustration.

By the way, DrawPlus has a 3D module - it will allow you to turn your creativity into real 3D design elements. You can apply a wide variety of effects when creating logos, isometric projections, flowcharts.

A huge number of formats can be imported into the program: PDF, AI, SVG, SVGZ, EPS, PS, SMF, etc. Own format for projects - DPP.

graffiti studio

Website: http://www.vandalsquad.com

Raster graphics

One of the best graffiti drawing software, looks as realistic as it gets!

To start drawing: you need to select a piece of canvas (car, walls, bus), and, in fact, start creating (there are just heaps of ready-made options for selection!). The artist's arsenal includes a large palette of colors (more than 100 pieces), several types of caps (skinny, regular and fat), a marker. The distance to the surface is changed manually, it is possible to make streaks. In general, for fans of such graphics - the scope is huge!

Those who do not believe that real masterpieces can be created in the program, I recommend that you look at the official website and see the best works - your look will change a lot!

PixBuilder Studio

Raster editor

Powerful program for processing and editing graphic images and photos. In addition to editing, it is quite possible to draw and create (however, there are fewer tools for this than in previous similar programs).

PixBuilder Studio has quite interesting tools that allow you to finely work with color, brightness, contrast, and layers. In addition, there are built-in effects (for example, dithering (when processing digital signals, it is the mixing of pseudo-random noise with a specially selected spectrum into the primary signal) ), blur, sharpen, etc.

Peculiarities:

  • support for popular raster formats: BMP, PNG, JPG, GIF, TIFF, etc.;
  • there is an opportunity and tools for drawing (though very limited);
  • great opportunities for editing finished photos and pictures;
  • the ability to work with layers;
  • professional work with color: balance adjustment, brightness, contrast, etc.;
  • setting "hot" keys;
  • the presence of ready-made effects (you only need to apply them);
  • preview (to evaluate the result);
  • support for popular Windows OS: 7, 8, 10.

Krita

Raster editor

An excellent and convenient raster graphics editor for artists (by the way, at the time of writing this review, the program is free even for commercial use). Krita works on both Windows and Linux.

As for the most important thing: there is a good brush motion stabilizer, layers, masks, dynamic brushes, animation, a large number of blending modes, paper and pastel imitation, an "infinite" canvas, etc.

By the way, there is even a portable version of the program that can be run from a regular USB flash drive on any PC. The program has also been translated into Russian.

PS: the article will be supplemented ...

Thanks in advance for tips and advice in the comments!