Getting Started - Novell LINUX ENTERPRISE DESKTOP 10 SP2 - KDE 08-05-2008 Manual

Layers, Channels, Paths, Undo
In the first section, use the drop-down box to select the image to which the tabs refer.
By clicking Auto, control whether the active image is chosen automatically. By default,
Auto is enabled.
Layers shows the different layers in the current images and can be used to manipulate
(page 250). Channels
the layers. Information is available in Section 18.5.6, "Layers"
shows and can manipulate the color channels of the image.
Paths are a vector-based method of selecting parts of an image. They can also be used
for drawing. Paths shows the paths available for an image and provides access to path
functions. Undo shows a limited history of modifications made to the current image.
Its use is described in Section 18.5.5, "Undoing Mistakes" (page 250).

18.3 Getting Started

Although The GIMP can be a bit overwhelming for new users, most quickly find it
easy to use once they work out a few basics. Crucial basic functions are creating,
opening, and saving images.
18.3.1 Creating a New Image
To create a new image, select File > New or press Ctrl + N . This opens a dialog in which
to make settings for the new image. If desired, select a predefined setting called a
Template. To create a custom template, select File > Dialogs > Templates and use the
controls offered by the window that opens.
In the Image Size section, set the size of the image to create in pixels or another unit.
Click the unit to select another unit from the list of available units. The ratio between
pixels and a unit is set in Resolution, which appears when the Advanced Options section
is opened. A resolution of 72 pixels per inch corresponds to common screen display.
It is sufficient for Web page graphics. A higher resolution should be used for images
to print. For most printers, a resolution of 300 pixels per inch results in an acceptable
quality.
240 KDE User Guide