Create Clouds Using GIMP
Clouds are a fairly easy and relaxing way to get to know how to use Gimp. This article will show you how to do it using a few of the tools available in Gimp.
Steps
- Create an image. The one used for this tutorial will be 640 X 400. Fill it with a Apply Eye Makeup (for Blue or Grey Eyes) the color of the sky.
- Make a gradient. You can do that 'by hand' or using the gradient tool.
- Using the dodge tool, make a 'Look For Shapes in Clouds-like' shape.
- Select the smudge icon and begin smudging the cloud. You will be working on making it puffy.
- Using the dodge tool with the same settings as before, create another cloud shape inside the part of the cloud you have already started.
- Smudge it again. Be sure to stay within the edges created by your first dodge and Keep Eye Makeup from Smudging. This will help create a distinctive look. Be sure not to do this too much.
- With a slightly larger brush, smudge the cloud again.
- Do it again. You are giving your cloud depth by doing this.
- Be careful, when you smudge, that your brush isn't too large. Otherwise, everything will blur together completely.
- Continue doing this until your cloud is complete.
Tips
- Experiment with brushes to create different textures.
- The more attempts you make, the easier this becomes, so keep trying.
- Use reference pictures to get a feel for how clouds are shaped, where the lighter and darker areas are, etc.
Things You'll Need
- Gimp
- Computer
