Paint.Net: Create animated GIF picture

In this practical tip, we will show you how to create an animated gif image using Paint.Net.

Preparations: Image processing under Paint.Net

With Paint.Net alone you cannot create an animated GIF image. However, you need the image editing program to complete the individual sequences from which you will later compose the GIF image:

• First, draw a simple stick figure, for example with arms hanging and the corners of your mouth hanging.
• Save your drawing as a GIF image and attach a one to the name. All other images are then numbered in order to later classify the drawings in the correct order for animation. If you create more than 9 pictures, you have to use two-digit numbers - your file will be named Strichmännchen01.gif, for example.
• Then you successively modify your drawings. For example, our male should later raise his hand in greeting, twist his mouth in a smile and finally wave.
• Make small changes to each image so that the movements run smoothly later in the animation.

Create a GIF animation from individual images

• Download the free animation program Gif-X.
• Install Gif-X and go to "File" in the menu and first choose "New".
• Then click on "Insert from file" and select the previously created GIF images.
• Tip: If you mark the pictures with the [Ctrl] key pressed down, you can insert all pictures at once.
• In the properties dialog in the lower area of ​​the screen you can make various settings, such as adding a background color or a background image, as well as determining the display duration and the repetitions.
• You can view each of your settings as an animation. When you're satisfied, save your drawings as an animated GIF image.
• To do this, go back to "File" and click on "Export pictures". Finally, select the name, location and desired format and your animated GIF image is ready.

If you are not yet familiar with the image editing program, we will show you the most important functions for beginners in Paint.NET in another article.