#painting software

[typosandtea]

HEY FELLOW IPAD PROCREATE ARTISTS! OR ANYONE WITH EXPERIENCE WITH CLIP STUDIO PAINT

Clip studio paint is currently 60% off!! Making it about the same price as Procreate

And I was wondering what people think of it compared to Procreate?

Or just what people think of it in general? Procreate can feel a bit limiting sometimes but I’ve not really used anything else :)

Opinions are much welcome!

[6uny]

do you recommend Krita? I'm still trying to decide between that and Clip Studio Paint, most artists I follow use the latter while I rarely see anyone talk about Krita, but it is free

krita is great! i really love to gush about it to my friends because honestly its like the best desktop painting software i have ever used. i am not paid to say this i just genuinely think it needs more love and recognition.

clip studio was actually the first software i painted in digitally. my uncle got me a $30 license for it wayy back in 2015 when i graduated high school (he literally got me the cardboard box with a disk inside lmao, those were the days). clip is a VERY powerful software and worth every penny! however, i no longer use it because i lost the email that had the license key in it and i cannot re-install it (sad). if i ever have thirty bucks to throw around one day i might buy a new license for it to use in my ipad

krita is by far my favorite desktop painting software. it's a bit weird to get used to at first but the brush engine is very powerful. i think it deserves more credit. and it's free! i think it is definitely worth it, especially since it is open source.

also, hey! krita has a little mascot. and i'm a sucker for little fun things like that. shows the community of developers behind it actually uses what they are making and that they really care so much about krita.

edit: I edited this a little to fix some wording

[fennethianell]

You have probably already said this, but what art program do you use? I'm trying to find a good digital art program. Also your art is so beautiful and I love all of your guardians of the galaxy stuff💕

Oh yeah I talked about it few times before, but it can vary :”DSO I used to draw in Photoshop CS5 (and older versions before), and then CS6, and then I jumped into PaintTool SAI. I use it most of the time for my works, but lately I started using Photoshop CS6 again, specially for three weeks now I have my new tablet (this cintiq-like one SO IT’S WAY better to draw for me when I work in Photoshop).If you have regular graphic tablet you can buy a Lazy nezumi plug-in for Photoshop (if you use it), it has some awesome options :D I use it all the time (most importantly it has a stabilizer which is like… THE BEST THING THERE IS! What a blessing for digital artist)Now… there are some technical problems… so SAI don’t work on Apple products, but there is a free program MediBang Paint Pro which works on macs and also they have an app for smartphones which I use when i’m bored and I can’t draw on my computer. It’s a very good program if you don’t have money to buy other software, I draw in it from time to time :DAnyway! I use SAI and Photoshop all the time. I usually draw in SAI and then jump into photoshop for final touches and edits, but sometimes I do whole work in Photoshop, or only in SAI.There is one more, I bought some time ago now, Clip Studio Paint but I used it maybe three times so far. It’s way more complicated when it comes for brushes and other more pro options (I should give it a try again XD). To be honest I prefer sacrifice my time to learn about After Effect than this one, BUT I know it’s very good for drawing comics ;D so if you want to go with it I would recommend it for work with comics for sure :D

AND AHH GLAD YOU DO!! Thank you so much and I hope my answer was somehow helpful ;o;

[charitycart]

Here is the Marta Lualdi sketch I did yesterday. Today I decided to color it using Paint Tool Sai.

[madeinhexels]

Introducing: Marmoset Hexels 3

We’re thrilled to announce the most versatile version of our beloved grid-based painting tool, Hexels 3. Best of all, Hexels 3 is a free update for all Hexels 2 users.

This update brings an exciting new set of pixel-perfect tools! Combine vector style art with pixel details using pixel layers, brushes, rasterization and document settings that allow for pixel scaling and anti-aliasing. The new pixel tools work fluidly with our existing tools, which means more fantastic and diverse Hexels art!  

Start creating your pixel-perfect wonderland with Hexels 3.

[charitycart]

Tried to draw Jenny from My Life As A Teenage Robot in human form....eh

[charitycart]

I tried out Paint Tool Sai today and OMG I need to get use to it and fast lol.

[quantifynorthamericainfo]

How to Select the Best Software Solutions for Painting Contractors

Choosing the right painting estimating software can transform your contracting business from chaotic manual processes to streamlined digital operations. The key factors include accurate measurement tools, integration capabilities, mobile accessibility, and scalable pricing models that grow with your business. Focus on solutions that handle both residential and commercial projects while providing real-time collaboration features.

The Current Software Landscape for Painting Professionals

The painting industry has shifted dramatically over the past five years. Contractors who relied on pen-and-paper estimates now face clients expecting instant quotes and professional digital presentations.

This transformation accelerated after 2020, when remote consultations became standard practice. Painting businesses discovered that software solutions weren't just convenient tools but essential components for staying competitive.

Modern painting contractors need systems that handle multiple project types simultaneously. Whether you're bidding on a single-family home or a commercial office complex, your software should adapt to different scales and requirements.

Essential Features Every Painting Contractor Should Prioritize

Measurement Accuracy and Material Calculations

Your painting estimating software must deliver precise square footage calculations. Manual measurements often contain errors that can cost thousands on larger projects.

Look for platforms that integrate with digital measurement tools or provide built-in calculators for complex architectural features. The software should account for doors, windows, and irregular surfaces automatically.

Project Management Integration

Standalone estimating tools create workflow bottlenecks. The best solutions combine estimation with scheduling, client communication, and progress tracking in one platform.

This integration eliminates double data entry and reduces the chance of miscommunication between your office staff and field crews.

Pricing Models That Actually Make Sense

Most painting contractors operate on tight margins, making software costs a significant consideration. Subscription-based models typically offer better value than large upfront payments.

Calculate the monthly cost against your average project volume. A solution that costs $200 monthly but saves 10 hours of administrative work pays for itself quickly.

Some platforms offer tiered pricing based on team size or project volume. Start with basic features and upgrade as your business grows rather than paying for unused capabilities.

Mobile Accessibility for Field Operations

Your crews need access to project details while on-site. Mobile-responsive software allows real-time updates and photo documentation directly from job locations.

Field accessibility becomes crucial when clients request changes mid-project. Your team can update estimates and communicate adjustments immediately rather than waiting for office hours.

Cloud-based solutions provide this flexibility without requiring expensive hardware upgrades for your entire team.

Integration with Existing Business Systems

Painting contractors often use separate tools for accounting, customer relationship management, and scheduling. Your chosen software should connect with these existing systems.

Quantify North America specializes in construction software integration, helping contractors maintain their preferred workflows while adding powerful estimation capabilities.

Popular integrations include QuickBooks for accounting, various CRM platforms, and scheduling applications that many contractors already use daily.

Evaluation Criteria for Different Business Sizes

Small Operations (1-5 Employees)

Focus on simplicity and cost-effectiveness. You need core estimation features without complex project management modules that won't get used.

Look for solutions with straightforward interfaces that require minimal training time.

Medium Businesses (6-20 Employees)

Collaboration features become essential at this scale. Multiple team members need simultaneous access to project files and client communications.

Consider platforms that offer role-based permissions and workflow approvals for estimates above certain dollar amounts.

Large Contractors (20+ Employees)

Enterprise-level features like custom reporting, API access, and dedicated account management justify higher monthly costs.

Your software should handle multiple concurrent projects across different geographical areas with centralized oversight capabilities.

Common Implementation Mistakes to Avoid

Many contractors choose software based on feature lists rather than actual workflow needs. Identify your biggest pain points before comparing options.

Data migration from existing systems often creates unexpected complications. Plan for a transition period where both old and new systems run simultaneously.

Training represents a hidden cost that many businesses underestimate. Factor in the time required for your team to become proficient with new tools.

ROI Measurement and Success Metrics

Track specific metrics before and after software implementation. Average time per estimate, proposal acceptance rates, and project profitability provide clear success indicators.

Document your current processes to establish baseline measurements. Many contractors discover inefficiencies they didn't realize existed during this evaluation phase.

Future-Proofing Your Software Investment

Technology changes rapidly in the construction industry. Choose vendors with regular update schedules and active development roadmaps.

Consider platforms that offer API access or integration partnerships. This flexibility allows you to adapt as new tools emerge in the market.

The most successful painting contractors view software as an ongoing investment rather than a one-time purchase. Budget for annual upgrades and additional features as your business evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it typically take to implement new painting estimation software?

A: Most contractors see full adoption within 30-60 days. The timeline depends on team size, existing process complexity, and training commitment. Start with simple projects to build confidence before tackling complex estimates.

Q: Can painting software handle both residential and commercial projects effectively?

A: Quality platforms accommodate both project types with different templates and calculation methods. Commercial projects often require more detailed material breakdowns and compliance documentation that good software handles automatically.

Q: What happens to my data if I need to switch software providers?

A: Reputable vendors provide data export options in standard formats. Before committing, verify the export capabilities and understand any limitations on historical data access.

Q: Is cloud-based software secure enough for sensitive client information?

A: Modern cloud platforms typically offer better security than local storage. Look for vendors with SOC 2 compliance, encryption protocols, and regular security audits. Most provide better data protection than traditional office systems.

Q: How do I calculate the true cost of painting software beyond monthly fees?

A: Include training time, data migration costs, potential integration fees, and any required hardware upgrades. Factor in the value of time savings and improved accuracy when calculating return on investment.

Key Takeaway

The right painting estimating software transforms administrative burden into competitive advantage. Focus on solutions that match your current business size while providing room for growth. Prioritize accuracy, integration capabilities, and mobile access over flashy features you may never use. The investment in proper software pays dividends through improved efficiency, professional presentation, and more accurate project profitability.