Is there a good computer graphics program to make decals?

[seeker589]

I have tried to create graphics to print on decal film on my computer but I can't seem to get rid of the pixel effect (stepping - bad definition) when I print them. 8-bit graphics are cool - but not on a - 90s street machine.

Is there a graphics program that can do smooth curves and arks as well as lettering?

Or how do I get rid of the pixel effect?

I could draw the graphic - scan it - then print it. But I'm not sure where my french curve is. That and I wanna learn a new skill.

Would Adobe Paint Shop Elements do it?

[Doughnut]

If you want the best lettering and smooth curves, you should check out Adobe Illustrator. I have been printing decals for a few years now, and I use Adobe Photoshop because it is what I am familiar with. Since I usually print on an Alps at 600dpi, that is what I create my decals at and they are a perfect match. When I scan in parts or other items, I also scan them at 600dpi so everything is a match and lines up. I don't want any surprises when I print. The pixelating you are getting is most likely because your image is at too low of resolution. Good luck.

[bigdaddyfan]

A couple of good free programs are GIMP and Paint.net. GIMP is fairly powerful. I haven't done anything fancy with them but the images I have edited looked great when done. Starting image resolution is key. The higher and bigger the better. You can always shrink them down.

Afterward a good printer and decal paper are going to help also. A $20 Lexmark from Walmart might not give you good results no matter what programs you use to create or edit your images.

Edited October 9, 2010 by bigdaddyfan