GIMP Software Tips

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a raster image editing desktop application that is free and open-source (FOSS) and cross-platform.

It is for the "graphic designer, photographer, illustrator, or scientist".

GIMP is easy to install and the source code can be downloaded from GitHub, too.

Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) has installed GIMP on our Windows Design Workstations 1-3.

Links to related PPM Wiki pages:

File Format Tips

Contact Us if you cannot find your answer here on our Wiki or if you notice any information that is outdated.

 

Tips

☐ GIMP's native file format uses the file extension .xcf.

☐ Use math to change dimensions: for example, type *2 after a dimension to double it.

☐ Give your Layers and Layer Groups useful names (Also important in other programs, too.)

☐ Context menus are used throughout GIMP, of course (right click, or two-finger press on a trackpad.)

☐ Edit and customize keyboard shortcuts.

☐ GIMP supports non-destructive image manipulations via "filters".

☐ GIMP supports image manipulations via scripting (Python, and others.)

☐ Very extensive list of supported file formats (both Import and Export.)

☐ Does not (yet) have real-time collaborative features.

☐ Consider following the "Tip of the Day" (under the Help menu.)

Training

Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) does not currently offer any training classes on GIMP.

To ask questions or potentially meet other users, use our Slack channel #computing.

External Training

Links to gimp.org:

Hand-Curated Links

Links to gimp.org:

Roadmaps

Get Involved

Alternatives to GIMP:

Adobe Photoshop — subscription-based raster graphics and photo editing software

AFFINITY Photo — commercial software, but no subscription required

Krita — FREE and open source painting program

Additional Help

Links to related PPM Wiki pages:

Adobe Photoshop Tips

GitHub Tips

Visual Studio Code Tips

Procreate app Tips

Use the PPM Slack channel #computing

Note that we have a Slack channel (#job-board) for members to post, discuss, or accept job opportunities either within PPM or from the community.

Search the PPM Wiki — include Content pages as well as Multimedia.

Contact Us if you cannot find your answer here on our Wiki or if you notice any information that is outdated.