Text: Viktor Bespaly

The computer has changed its role more than once during its evolution. If earlier it was bought in order to create, now it has turned into a multimedia entertainment center. On a computer, you can watch movies, listen to music, play games - and for most people this is enough. But not for those who want to create. Today we will talk about how you can draw on a computer - and at the same time draw beautifully.

A real designer is unthinkable without an art education, he must be fluent in the technique of drawing (pencil, charcoal), graphics (watercolor, gouache, pencil, ink, etc.), painting (gouache, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil). But everyone can master computer graphics. A computer in the hands of an ordinary person can turn into an obedient tool for the embodiment of his artistic thought - the very one that he cannot translate on paper.

The first thing to remember is that there are two types of graphic files: vector and raster. The set of tools and programs you need will depend on which graphics you prefer. In vector files, the picture is formed by a set of curves and shading functions. Each time you open this picture, the editor program draws the image from scratch. In raster files, a picture is a set of dots with a color parameter, and the picture is universal, but takes up more space.

USEFUL IRON

One of the most important parameters of a computer is the amount of RAM.

Contrary to many claims, a very fast processor is not needed to draw on a computer. A real frequency of 1.5-2 GHz is quite enough, it will be Intel or AMD - it doesn't matter, it all depends on the means and preferences you have. The most important parameter of a computer working with graphics is the amount of RAM; the more it is, the better. Our working applications, such as Photoshop, Painter, OpenCanvas (or even 3DS MAX), are very fond of having a lot of RAM. And if you are going to create complex multi-layer compositions (and you are definitely going to?), then you can’t get away with standard 512 MB DDR. You can recommend to put at least 1 GB; the speed of RAM affects performance less noticeably.

An ultra-modern video card is not needed for drawing, the brand also does not really matter. However, there is an established opinion that the best cards for drawing and graphics are produced by Matrox.

Now the main thing: the periphery. And we'll start with the good old scanner- without it, the artist will have a very difficult time, but he is needed, first of all, to enter background blanks into the computer. For example, you have drawn a palm tree, and now you need to place it on an island by the sea. Take a similar illustration on paper, scan it, style it like a painting and place it as a layer under a palm tree. A digital camera can compensate for the lack of a scanner, but in this application it will cope with the task with a C grade. You can make sketches by hand on plain paper, and then correct them on the computer, having previously scanned them. A decent scanner will cost you 2 - 2.5 thousand rubles.

And finally, the main peripheral device for a computer artist - digitizer or tablet. They come in two main types - drawing and graphic. Drawing tablet designed for CAD applications such as AutoCAD, 3DStudioMAX and their analogues. Such tablets have a pen without a degree of pressure - it is either pressed or not, details are not provided here. The main advantages of these tablets are high resolution and positioning accuracy; an old model with a large area will cost about 1,800 rubles.

Graphics tablet differs in the following: a small platform (the areas of the graphics are small compared to the drawings); it positions the point rougher, but it feels pressure on the pen, and this is a big plus. If you use Adobe Photoshop, then working with chiaroscuro and brushes of different thicknesses will be much easier. Additionally, you can use a function that makes the stroke brighter or paler, depending on the force of pressing - as a result, we get the opportunity to draw a lighter or darker "spot" without changing the brush.

For our case, graphic tablets are best suited. Prices for non-professional models start at 800 rubles; as you understand, the more expensive the tablet, the better it is and the more convenient it is to work on it. However, even on a small A6 matrix, everything can look quite tolerable.

Another useful device uninterrupted power supply unit. Better to play it safe than later grieve over the loss of a brilliant creation, over which you pored over for a week. Estimated price depends on the desired capacity and the number of connected devices. In order to have time to save the drawing at the right time and turn off the computer correctly, a UPS worth 1,000 rubles is enough.

Mice are ordinary

A rather exotic input method is trackball- an inverted mouse with a big ball. The user rotates this ball with his fingers. The advantage of the trackball over the mouse is the high accuracy of cursor movement at low speeds. For everyday use, the trackball is inconvenient.

In choise mice everything is quite simple: whether it sits comfortably in the hand, whether there is scrolling or a 3rd button, etc., all this is entirely up to your taste. A separate conversation about rugs, carpets must be bought specifically, and not use those that come as a bonus to a new computer.

A mechanical mouse pad needs to be slippery and grippy at the same time. This means that the mouse should not stick to the carpet, but the ball should literally bite into it. For optics, it is better to choose such a rug so that the mouse does not jerk the cursor while standing still. The size of the rug should also be optimal - too large ones take up a lot of space on the table, and too small make the user often move the mouse away from the edge of the carpet.

You can also draw with a regular mouse. But not necessary.

PROGRAMS FOR ARTISTS

There is a whole range of software tools - from simple tools for drawing on a computer to professional packages. The Windows shell includes one of the simplest packages - Paint. On the example of working with this package, you can get an initial idea of ​​\u200b\u200bhow to create graphic files. There are also more serious packages, for example, Adobe Photoshop. Let's try to briefly go through the main programs and highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

Painter is one of the best drawing software.

painter- the best program for computer artist. Version 8 is now out, called Corel Painter. Don't be fooled by phrases like "Procreate Painter is better than Corel Painter" - it's the same program. Painter easily imitates all currently known real materials for drawing and painting, and even the styles of individual well-known artists. The interface is intuitive, the only drawback of the program is that it is paid.

Adobe Photoshop- a package focused more on photo processing than on drawing. However, it contains many essential tools for an artist. Painting in it is not very convenient, but coloring pictures of comics is the very thing, and applying various styles and filters to them is even better. The great advantage of Photoshop lies in the fact that a huge number of filters, brushes and other add-ons have been created for it. You can easily convert all sketches into a single gallery with a recognizable style. Photoshop is paid and expensive, but it's worth it.

Photoshop is the most powerful graphic editor for all occasions.

OpenCanvas- a completely free program for artists, very easy and convenient, but in terms of functionality it is very inferior to expensive counterparts. In many ways it repeats the flagships, but greatly simplified. The project is developing, new updates are released periodically. Would recommend to all budding artists.

OpenCanvas is free and functional - that's what it's good for.

Ambient Design ArtRage- a special program that allows you to draw almost artistic works using a tablet computer or tablet. You can draw either yourself, or use any digital photo as a substrate; you can draw not only on a tablet computer, but also using an ordinary mouse or tablet. Very useful and absolutely free program.

Ambient Design ArtRage is designed specifically for tablet computers.

Corel Draw- vector graphics editor. For a long time it was considered a toy for amateurs, professionals disdained the program, preferring Adobe Illustrator. But the Canadian company Corel did not stand still - the situation changed after the release of the 10th series. The program has grown so much that today we can already recognize it as a very serious vector graphics tool. Everyone will like it - from a green beginner trying to draw “in Corel” for the first time, to a pro who, in no time, makes some fashionable trademark or label for a new beer with it.

Corel Draw is a powerful vector editor.

Combining these editors together, you can achieve almost any result. The only thing to remember is that the vector editor is always primary, and the raster editor is secondary. That is, having edited the file in a raster editor, it can no longer be converted to vector format, it will only be possible to overlay the next layer.

Summarize. The required set of a computer artist is Painter or Photoshop. Optional - Flash, Corel Draw, OpenCanvas. A vector editor will allow you to create an image from scratch, while a raster one works better with blanks. This, of course, does not mean that in the same Photoshop it is impossible to draw something decent, or even brilliant. But it is more convenient to draw in vector programs.

Options for practical application

Budget. Mouse, pad, bitmap editor.

If you invested a little more than the standard $ 10 in a mousepad and mouse, and if you have a lot of patience and no less time, then, of course, you will draw something. Sadly, drawing with a regular mouse is very difficult. At best, drawings are obtained in the style of children's primitivism.

Minimum. Scanner, sheet of paper, pencil, mouse, raster or vector editor.

This method is quite laborious, but allows you to get good results. The meaning is simple - you make a sketch on paper, scan it and process it in a graphics editor. The better the software, the better the drawing will be.

Comfortable. Mouse, scanner, Corel Draw, quality mouse pad.

It is very convenient if the mouse polling frequency is high, and with the help of vector editors you can draw any curved lines correctly. But this method is good only for vector editors.

How to. Graphics tablet, scanner, trackball, Corel Draw and Adobe Photoshop.

With this set you can draw at a high level, you are limited only by your skills and imagination.

Graphics tablet

A tablet is the perfect drawing device.

Probably, almost everyone who has ever picked up an electronic pen and tried to draw something on a graphics tablet has experienced bewilderment and disappointment. It looks so much like a regular pen, but the feeling of drawing is completely different. And the results, frankly, are not brilliant. Perhaps the result will be better if you understand the principle of operation of these wonderful plates.

A special grid is installed inside the tablet. These are conductors made of the thinnest copper strips. Each of them can be compared to a receiving antenna that receives a signal from an electronic pen. They allow special microcircuits to track the position of the pen on the tablet and transmit its coordinates to the chip. Further, the driver and the drawing program are included in the work.

When we draw a pen over the active area of ​​the tablet, then on the screen, if we have a graphics editor loaded and a drawing tool selected, a trace remains. Many tablets have a transparent plastic cover that can be removed and you can put a picture or photo under it. This will allow you to trace the image while copying it. At the pen itself, one end is for drawing, the other is for erasing. The device and principle of operation of all tablets are almost the same.

Successful work!

A program for drawing on a computer is a very necessary thing for both creative people and for those who work with images for work.

Few people think that in addition to regular Windows graphic editors, as well as, there are other computer drawing programs that are no worse, and in some places even outperform eminent competitors.

Another interesting free representative from the graphic category. Using the program, you can change and edit ready-made files or draw your own, fortunately, there are enough tools.

In addition to the standard tools that almost everyone has, there are also their own features.

It's no wonder why SmoothDraw has so many useful gadgets with a professional twist. The fact is that this project was originally conceived to create files from scratch.

This computer drawing program for kids is just right. There are no complicated elements here, and the menu is intuitive even for a beginner.

The lack of Russian support for packages with files is a little overshadowing, but the interface itself is so simple that you can ignore this shortcoming.

In addition, SmoothDraw does not have an installation file, being a portable version. In other words, you can transfer the folder with the editor to your flash drive, and then activate the product anywhere.

The application opens with equal ease on both older Win98 and Win8 machines.

Paint.NET

The editor's workspace is quite archaic, which does not prevent it from being as informative as possible.

In addition to the classic panel, there are several floating windows that are configured in the menu and carry informative and auxiliary functions.

In addition, they are translucent, which will not interfere with drawing or editing any object.

This editor, by the way, has good support for layers, as well as the ability to import external files.

At the same time, you can vary the transparency, data blending, and also change the names of these layers. Useful feature, isn't it?

Hotkeys are available. To see the full list of supported commands, just click on the Window menu.

In most cases, all functions are activated by pressing F1-F12, although alternatives are possible.

The main advantage of the editor lies in the availability and pleasant appearance. And “in the depths” lies a good functionality that will appeal to many.

ArtWeaver

A good program, designed to compete with the eminent competitor from Adobe. Of course, it cannot be called a full-fledged replacement for Photoshop, but the functionality here is no less interesting.

In addition, products are produced under an Open Source license, i.e. completely free (non-commercial version). It is somewhat reminiscent of Corel PhotoPaint in its capabilities.

If you look at the workspace interface, you can see many similarities with the same competitor of version 7 and below.

At the same time, there are all the necessary windows required for a raster editor, whether it is a toolkit, navigation, a list of layers, or a sequence of actions performed.

The main tool is, oddly enough, a brush. Firstly, this is the most popular tool, and secondly, the developers have endowed this function with an abundance of settings and fine-tuning “for themselves”.

Even cropping was given attention, providing it with horizontal and vertical proportions.

As for a free program, working with layers is implemented perfectly.

You are free to group them, set opacity, blend types, and even fix scaling and moving. But what is really useful is the duplication of a separate layer.

It even has its own format - awd. Layers can only be saved in it, but the list of supported ones includes jpg, png, psd, tiff and more. Full set.

A good choice for those who just decided to get comfortable.

livebrush

An easy-to-learn program, and it's also free. Although this option is controversial, since only Livebrush Lite can be considered as such.

The key feature of the application lies in the fact that you can draw here only with a brush.

On the one hand, this somewhat slows down the user and limits, but on the other hand, this feature is implemented here so skillfully that it made it possible to make the product unique.

In order not to frighten off potential users, let's clarify that the "brush" is not an abstract tool for drawing lines.

It can be very different from the usual human perception, appearing in the form of complex geometric elements, fractal graphics, and even a vine. It's all about the settings.

What you fantasize and create for yourself is what you will use.

In addition, on the official website, many people post their own "visions" of brushes, which can be easily downloaded and installed on your PC.

Programs for drawing on a computer

Drawing program on a computer: 5 best programs

Read our material about the update of the drawing program on the Microsoft Paint computer.

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).

List of the best drawing software for PC for hobbyists

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

Drawing with a computer allows you to create no less interesting work than creating a drawing by hand. Today, drawing with the help of computer technology has become a tool for the work of many designers and graffists.

In this way, creating images has become much easier. Many of those who have never tried themselves as an artist can master programs and services for drawing on a computer from scratch.

The best programs for drawing on a computer

There are a large number of services for creating pictures using interactive tools. A significant part of these services is in consolidated access:

Paint

The tool is installed by default on all devices with Windows software. Allows you to change drawings and create graphics. The main control method is the mouse, it is with the help of it that the user is invited to create a drawing. On the working panel of the utility is located multiple tools: pencil, marker, brush. And also there is a large color palette, which, if necessary, can be supplemented with new colors and shades.

Using Paint is characterized by intuitive controls, in case of questions about working with the application, the user can always use the "Help" tab. Paint supports many formats: jpeg, bmp, jpg. Paint is not suitable for working with layers, as well as for creating animation. Despite this, you can create posters, graffiti, drawings. The program allows you to change the size of the image and its location. The application itself does not take up much space on the computer, due to which it provides a quick launch. An indisputable advantage is the presence of the Russian language. Finding and downloading Paint is quite problematic, since the software is preinstalled and does not imply its separate installation.

gimp

The service is a powerful tool for creating drawings and layouts to fill the site, or for other purposes. Gimp gives you the ability to work with layers, and is similar in functionality to the Photoshop editor. Such an application suitable for beginners graphic designers who do not need to work with large files at the initial level. Allows you to save materials in various formats.

Gimp has a large number of tools for processing and editing photos, a Russian-language interface, and also allows you to create multi-layer projects, apply effects and change chiaroscuro. A clear advantage Gimp - work with animation. Of the shortcomings we can note a small functionality for adjusting the text and a small number of fonts. Gimp supports all bitmap formats. You can download the service for free on the Gimp website.

MyPaint

The application is freely available and has a number of advantages compared to other similar software. In MyPaint, you can not only create drawings, but also apply effects and set filters. Supports a large number of formats, including OpenRaster. Allows you to customize the tools according to user preferences. Allows you to work both with editing the finished material, and with creating a drawing from scratch. Supports the function changing layers and adjusting the light content of the image.

A distinctive feature of MyPaint is the ability to use drafts, which are located on the Notepad tab. The program menu does not provide an interface in Russian. You can download the application on the official website of MyPaint.

graffiti studio

The editor is not suitable for creating large-scale projects. Of the tools involves work on spray painting over the existing file. The surface with which the user has to work can be selected independently or use the templates available on the service by default.

It is recommended to run Graffiti Studio on behalf of the administrator, so the service opens up more opportunities for adding images of various formats. Please note that the service does not allow editing and creating your own pictures. The functionality is very limited. You can download Graffiti Studio on the official resource.

artweaver

The editor allows create bitmaps any kind. Supports a number of popular formats: JPEG, PSD, TIFF, BMP, PCX, PNG, GIF, TGA. Artweaver features: supports layers, customizing tools for individual user preferences, a large field for working with text and fonts, has a large number of effects and filters for processing existing material.

Of the shortcomings, it can be noted: available only on the Windows operating system, the Russian translation is very distorted, not suitable for commercial use. If necessary, you can buy a fully functional version that is compatible with more complex services such as Photoshop. The editor is suitable for users who already have an idea about graphic services and are advanced users. You can download Artweaver from the link.

SmoothDraw

Editor suitable for creating complex projects and for creating amateur drawings. Multi-level editing is available, changing layers, a large set of effects and filters, a malleable interface that can be customized to individual user preferences.

The main advantage utilities is the clarity and conciseness of the menu management. The main drawback is the lack of the Russian language. You can download it from the SmoothDraw website.

PixBuilder Studio

The utility is suitable for both amateurs and professionals. Program allows you to create drawings and graphics of any complexity, as well as apply numerous formats for saving. Supports digital images, it is possible to adjust the brightness, contrast, sharpness. Utility allows you to cancel several actions even after pressing the "Save" key.

PixBuilder Studio is completely free and does not require the purchase of add-ons. The interface requires user adaptation. You can download it on the official website of PixBuilder Studio.

inkscape

The service is suitable for creation and development professional layouts and web drawings. The utility is designed to create and edit vector graphics. Supports the main formats: SVG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, EPS, PDF, PNG, ICO, as well as a number of additional ones designed for exporting images. It includes a large number of extensions, which makes it easier to manage the utility, also supports layers and allows you to change their levels.

main feature programs - the ability to convert a raster image to a vector one. It has several control languages, including Russian. Requires quite a long installation. The author can work with styles, layers, edit existing drawings, and create new ones. Inkscape is available for download on the official resource.

livebrush

The application allows you to use existing ornaments, which makes it easier to work with applying various patterns. As a program for creating unique content, Livebrush is unlikely to work, but as a means of entertainment or a tool for the work of students, it will fit perfectly.

It has limited functionality, which does not allow the utility to reach the level of professional editors. Does not support layers and animation. It makes more sense to use the service as an interactive canvas, because Livebrush completely mimics painting with a brush. The interface is easy to use and not cluttered with unnecessary sections, which can be difficult to navigate for a novice user. Livebrush can be downloaded from the official website.

Affinity Designer

The editor allows you to process vector and raster graphics, includes the necessary tools for working with ready-made images and for creating unique new content. The Affinity Designer menu is intuitive, which is why many users prefer this particular program to work with. You can download it on the off-site Affinity Designer.

Krita

The utility has multiple modes: pixel, vector and export. The editor is designed to create artistic images, the interface design can be customized to fit a canvas or a sheet of paper. You can customize the toolbar for yourself. Allows you to create projects of varying complexity, suitable for developing design cases.

The thematic design of the application is designed to make the user feel like a real creator. Also in the app you can edit pictures and upload ready-made drawings. Available from the Krita download link.

Corel Painter

An editor designed for working on a graphics tablet and digital images. It is interesting that the utility uses the Real Bristle mode, which allows not only to imitate a drawing with a brush or pencil, but the process itself is close to the real application of one or another artistic tool.

Allows you to create realistic graphics, arts and edit available drawings. In the functionality, it is possible to customize the panel to individual preferences. A link to download Corel Painter is available on the official resource. There are paid add-ons.

Autodesk Sketchbook Pro

The program allows you to create a drawing on a touch monitor or screen. Worth noting immediately lack of a Russian-speaking adaptation. A feature of the utility is the ability to create drawings, build sketches of premises, create layouts, and make quick sketches. Has the ability to add comments and footnotes to the project.

The functionality is very simple and includes all possible drawing tools. Suitable for both quick sketches and creating a full-fledged image. You can download Autodesk SketchBook Pro by going to the official resource.

S.A.I Paint Tool

The arsenal of the program includes not only English, but also Russian, which makes it easier for new users to work with the application. SAI Paint Tool gives the ability to edit images of varying complexity and create new cartoon drawings. The user has the ability to work with the image scale, angle and open multiple files at the same time without slowing down the utility.

You can group layers and adjust them separately. To use you need to download SAI Paint Tool.

Tux Paint

The application is focused on drawing on a computer for kids. Such a program helps to develop the creative abilities of the child and to occupy him in his free time. Tux Paint allows you to create cartoon-like drawings. Using the utility, you can create small cartoon, design design. The operation interface is simple and clear even for new users. The application download is available on the official Tux Paint website.

Adobe Photoshop

One of the most powerful graphic editors. It gives you the opportunity not only to edit images, but also to create new ones, and also supports working with video files, with gif-animation files. The main formats that the utility works with are: JPEG, TIFF, BMP, PCX, PSD.

Photoshop fully meets all standards for creating images and is used by both professionals and beginners in graphic and web design. Of the minuses one can note the difficulty in mastering, the need to delve into working with the application in detail, as well as the lack of support for the Linux operating system. Adobe Photoshop official website for downloading the program. The program is paid, there is an extended version that supports the ability to create files with an extended choice of image formats.

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 beginning to work "in digital", refusing 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.

Peculiarities

Most tablet artists currently use Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. This is a high-quality, functional software, however, not the only one. It is worth choosing a program both in terms of functionality and convenience of working with it.

Which program you choose will determine how much the capabilities of your tablet will open up. Therefore, you need to choose software taking into account the technical data of the device. In addition, there are universal programs suitable for any tablet.

<Рис. 1 Планшет>

Paint

This application is suitable for artists who are just starting to learn how to work on a graphics tablet. It has common functionality, a simple and familiar menu, and therefore you won’t need to spend extra time getting used to it (although a novice author will still have to get used to a tablet).

Having a certain level of skill, and having stuffed your hand, with the help of such software, you can create quite high-quality work. The advantages of such an application include:

1. Its presence by default in standard assemblies of all versions of Windows (although it is recommended to work with those included in XP, 7, 8, 8.1, 10 assemblies);
2. Extremely simple interface and menu - almost every user knows how to work with Paint;
3. Pretty wide (for a basic program) functionality.

From the functional features of the program, one can single out drawing with a pencil with lines of various thicknesses and densities, drawing with a brush at different transparency and stroke width, filling the selected area in one color, working in several layers. You can also act with the finished image - select and copy zones, cut out sections, enlarge, stretch and flip the selected zones. Saves pictures in several formats.

It is worth starting acquaintance with the functionality of a drawing tablet with this software. Moreover, it can be the main one for those who do not draw professionally, as well as for those who periodically make minor edits to graphic files.

<Рис. 2 Работа в Пейнт>

gimp

This software for creating drawings has wide functionality and considerable power. You can download it from the official website www.gimp.org. Works with all types of graphics tablets, as well as some other input devices.

Among the disadvantages of such software are the following:

1. Quite a significant load, both on the hardware of the computer and the tablet;
2. Quite a complex interface, 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 a fairly wide functionality:

• Working with photos - brightness, color correction, level adjustment, contrast, etc.;
• Photo editing - removing unnecessary elements, cropping, other standard Photoshop functions;
• Suitable for web designers, as it allows you to create and edit layouts for websites;
• Drawing pictures - equipped with the functions of "brush", "pencil", "filling the area with color", etc., and in several forms;
• It has an individual format for saving pictures.xcf, which can save data with a picture, text insert, layers, textures, etc.;
• Easy integration with the clipboard - pictures and photos can be opened in the program by simply copying them;
• Opens editable files from other well-known graphics programs, such as .psd;
• The developer's open 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 designed primarily for artists working in classical genres. It is not so much designed for drawing simple illustrations as for creating works of art, paintings in a classic style. For this reason, it has a fairly wide and complex functionality, not a very simple menu.

Most artists take some time to get used to it. However, it is believed that the interface of this program is simpler than that of most similar ones with similar functionality. You can download the application at .

<Рис. 4 Работа в MyPaint>

The main advantages of this app are:

• Unlimited canvas sizes;
• The ability to customize the content of the menu bar, include assignable buttons, etc., as a result, the function of quickly switching between commands and easy access to frequently used functions is realized;
• A very wide selection of brush types with the ability to fine-tune each;
• The function of importing strokes and brushes, generating, adjusting and editing them;
• Works with many types of devices and supports them well;
• Unlike most similar programs, it works on a variety of operating systems - Linux, Mac OS, Windows, Ubuntu.

Drawing in this software will be fast after the user gets used to its interface. However, non-professional artists, as well as illustrators and comic book creators, can get by with other, simpler applications (both in terms of interface and functionality).

graffiti studio

The program is designed to create graffiti, it is for this style of drawing that its main functionality is designed. Can be used with success 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 resembles the application of 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>

Features of this application include:

• Using more than 100 color shades of paints, such as could be used in real drawing;
• Creation of streaks and streaks, application to “dry paint”;
• Changing the specifics of application, depending on which 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 today as it was a few years ago, it has not completely disappeared. Largely due to the emergence of such programs.

artweaver

The program is a complete analogue of Photoshop. But, unlike it, it is implemented completely free of charge. You can download it from the official site.

It has the same functionality as Photoshop. And besides, a similar interface and external design. It is quite capable of replacing this graphic editor.

However, it also has some additional features that will be convenient for artists. Its main advantage is that authors who are used to working in Photoshop will not have to relearn. In addition, this application consumes less computer resources and is less "heavy".

In the application, it is possible to make pictures with means that imitate oil, pencil, watercolor, chalk. At the same time, various tools are presented here - brushes, markers, pencils, pen, pen and more (moreover, of various types).

Like Photoshop, it has full functionality for changing photos - color correction, adjusting brightness and contrast, levels, cropping, cutting out areas, compression, rotation, reflection, styling, etc. Like its better-known counterpart, it supports working in layers.

<Рис. 6 Работа в Artweaver>

SmoothDraw

You can download the program and the manual for working with it from the official website. It is suitable for working with any type of tablet. It has a fairly wide functionality with a relatively simple interface.

Allows not only to create new images, but also to process, modify and edit old ones, including those created in other programs. But mostly the application is focused specifically on artists who create a picture on a blank canvas. Suitable for both illustrators and web designers and artists working in a classic style.

Allows you to simulate the work of various tools - a brush, pencil, pen, pens, colored pencils, felt-tip pens, etc. It interacts well with tablets, there are no failures or bugs when performing basic functions. Since the software has a simple interface, it will make the creative process relatively simple and fast.

<Рис. 7 Работа в SmoothDraw>

PixBuilder Studio

The most accurate description for this program will be a light version of Photoshop. It combines most of the most used functions of this program, but removed unnecessary or rarely used features in order to simplify the interface and reduce the load on the hardware and software of the computer. You can download the program from the link.

Has the following functionality:

• Image editing by parameters: brightness, contrast, color correction, hue enhancement, etc.;
• Cutting and transforming photos, stretching, compressing, reflecting, reversing, both the entire image and the selected area;
• Generation of complex shapes, objects, etc.;
• Blur and sharpen functions, image styling 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>

inkscape

It differs significantly from the rest of the programs in the list primarily in that it allows you to create vector graphics. In fact, it is a more advanced and functional version of CoralDraw, which is familiar to most users. You can download it from the official site, and you must specify your operating system, since there are assemblies of this program for all operating systems (which is another significant advantage of it).

What are the benefits of this application? First of all, in the very principle of vector graphics, that is, drawing with directed segments. Such segments, unlike point fragments (in which all other programs described above work), are easy to edit at any stage.

At the same time, with such editing of the shapes and sizes of segments, there is no loss of image quality. You can even enlarge the entire image by several times, while maintaining its quality.

For this reason, the program is popular with web designers and designers, logo developers, and the like, as they often need to edit the image size. In addition, the application is actively used in printing, creating banners and booklets.

<Рис. 9 Работа в Inkscape>

livebrush

Simple and interesting software, designed more for creative search and inspiration than for creating a classic piece. In addition, it has a fairly wide functionality for editing images. You can download the software from the link.

There is only one tool here - the brush. But it comes in many different types, both in width and density, type, etc. In addition, many types of brushes can be downloaded, edited, created, etc.

In addition to traditional brushes - lines, there are also complex geometric shapes, which are also considered brushes in this application. The program is suitable for creating abstract illustrations and some design work.

<Рис. 10 Работа в Livebrush>

Paid programs

And also many developers implement paid programs for working with graphic tablets. In terms of functionality, they do not always surpass free ones, so before buying it is worth weighing the pros and cons. The most popular commercial programs are:

• Corel Painter X3 works with traditional media like brushes, pencils, and more. Simulates wet and dry finishes and effects. The works are realistic, and the drawing process is familiar;
• Painter Lite is a cheaper version of the previous program, with narrower functionality. Equipped with only the necessary drawing tools, suitable for beginners or for those who are not yet ready for significant spending;
• Clip Paint Studio Pro has been designed to create anime and manga. However, it can create comics and illustrations of any type. Its developers have made so many changes to the program that now it can be used for digital painting. The presence of standard poses and manga figures that can be used as nature in classical drawing is convenient;

  <Рис. 11 Работа в Corel Painter X3>

  Another good paid program is Affinity Designer. But it has a significant drawback - it is designed only to work with MAC.

  Programs for drawing on a computer

  In this video, I took six programs on which you can draw on a computer with a tablet and explained which program is best suited for whom and also revealed the criteria for choosing a graphic editor for everyone personally.