How to Draw Graffiti in Gimp

You can use GIMP to transform regular text into a graffiti-like format digitally.

Using the graphic design program GIMP, you can digitally recreate the appearance of graffiti. You can use the Paintbrush Tool to freehand designs, or you can use GIMP's Imigre-26 effect, which transforms regular text into a graffiti-like, two-toned creation. You can customize what font, size and colors are implemented to achieve a completely personalized look featuring the text of your choice.

Instructions

1. Launch GIMP. Click "File" and "Create," following the over-arrow to "Logos" and then "Imigre-26." This alpha design transforms any font into graffiti-like, two-toned text.

2. Type into the "Script-Fu" pop-up dialog the text you want to appear like graffiti.

3. Assign text and frame colors. Next to "Text color" is a preview box of the color that your text will appear. To change the color, click on the preview box and select the color of your choice from the "Script-Fu Color Selection" box. Press "OK" when finished. Change the "Frame Color" by similarly clicking on that preview box and following the same steps.

4. Choose a font by clicking the button to the right of "Font." Pick a title from the Font menu. Press "OK." Insert the "Font Size" and "Frame Size" you want. Click "OK." The graffiti-inspired logo will appear in a workbook.

5. Save the GIMP workbook as a picture file using an extension, such as ".JPG." To do so, click on "File" and "Save As." Enter your desired file name. Press "Save."

Tips & Warnings

• Consider choosing highly contrasting colors for your text and frame selections. This can enhance the graffiti feel of your image.

• The Imigre-26 effect will produce a multi-layered workbook, which will need to be compressed before the saving process can be finalized. After you have pressed "Save," you will be prompted to "Export File" to flatten the image.

References

• GIMP Docs: Alpha to Logo Filters
• GIMP Docs: Create

Resources

• GIMP: The GNU Image Manipulation Program