Need a free image editor with layers that's lighter than GIMP? LazPaint combines raster and vector layers with selection tools, image adjustments, and drawing features for editing pictures or building graphics.
Arrange edits across layers
Use the layer stack to keep parts of a graphic separate while drawing or editing. LazPaint supports raster and vector layers, and its tools draw on layers. When the composition is ready for a single-layer image, the Flatten command reduces the layered image to one layer.
Selections can have antialiased edges and serve as masks for changes to part of an image. Filters can target either the entire image or the active selection, so a blur, sharpen, or other effect can be confined to the selected area.
Adjust color and image detail
Color controls include RGB and HSL curves, colorization that preserves image intensities, and posterization by lightness or individual color channels. Negative and grayscale adjustments are also available, along with options to change brightness or saturation.
For texture and distortion work, choose filters such as radial blur, motion blur, median, emboss, twirl, or wave displacement. LazPaint can also generate textures, clouds, and rain; some layer effects, including drop shadows and strokes, are applied through scripts.
Resize, inspect, and navigate the canvas
Resample an image, flip it horizontally or vertically, or change the canvas dimensions. The Smart zoom x3 option enlarges pixel art while detecting borders, a workflow suited to inspecting sprites from older games. Zoom controls include a 1:1 view at original pixel size and a fit view that shows the full image in the window.
Hold Space to switch temporarily to move mode, and press F6 to hide or show the tool windows. Ctrl aligns work to image pixels and constrains possible rotation angles. LazPaint also supports undo and redo for its 200 most recent operations.
Pros
- Supports both raster and vector layers
- Selections can be antialiased and edited as masks
- Includes RGB and HSL curve adjustments
- Can read and write layered bitmaps and 3D files
Cons
- Lacks some advanced tools found in full photo editors
- Layer effects like shadows and strokes need scripts
System requirements: 32-bit and 64-bit
Can LazPaint work with both raster and vector layers?
Yes. It supports raster and vector layers, which appear in the layer stack.
Can filters affect only part of an image?
Yes. Make a selection and apply a filter to the active selection instead of the whole image.
What does Smart zoom x3 do?
It enlarges an image threefold while detecting borders, which can help display game sprites.
