Unzip and open the file: azk23-cottage-outline.psp. Make a copy [Window > Duplicate] and save the untouched original 'just in case' you have to start over. ;-)
Most pixel painted images are very small, so this 500x500 canvas would be considered a fairly large pixel painting. It is intended to be used as a splash page or entry page graphic. You can resize it smaller if you wish. I drew it large so I could show a variety of details. Practice with this cottage and then re-draw your own using your colors and embellishments.
Tip: Pixel art degrades in quality when re-sized, so it is always best to decide, before you start, the exact size you want for your final illustration. If you want to work with a smaller image than this demo, resize the outline included in the file before starting tutorial. Resizing may blur the lines, so remove any stray pixels from the drawing until you have a crisp, clean black outline to start with.
For this pixel painted cottage, the Paintbrush will be the primary tool used in all steps.
Paintbrush settings are:
- Shape=square
- Size=1
- Hardness=100
- Step=1
- Density=100
- Thickness=100
- Rotation=0
- Opacity=100
- Blend=Normal
- Stroke=Continuous
- Wet look paint UNchecked.
Unless instructions say otherwise, all tool settings will use a brush size of 1 pixel with anti-alias off.
Other settings that will not change not matter which tool is used:
Create on Vector, Connect Segments & Show Nodes are all UNchecked;
Blend Mode is Normal; Line Style is Solid; Opacity is 100% and no feather.
Only the Foreground/Stroke color/pattern will be used on the Materials palette. Background/Fill should be null.
Zoom in very close for nearly all steps; at least 300%, some steps 800-1000% or more.
Pick colors from swatches provided or use your own.
All painting will be done on HOUSE layer of drawing except where noted. The WINDOW LIGHTS layer is only for curtains and colors that are 'behind the glass'.
This cottage is white with blue trim. In some steps we'll be blending the black outline into the color scheme. If you prefer the look of a black outline, by all means, keep it black! Using a black outline is optional, it will give your drawing more of a 'cartoon' look. I like it both ways...there's no right or wrong here. A sampling of the difference is shown here.