Graphics Toolbox

The TOS Crew was given the opportunity to review  Graphics Toolbox GT1, “Graphic software for learning and creating.”
I was initially rather overwhelmed by Graphics Toolbox. Although it was supposed to be designed for “intuitive” use, the commands and icons don’t resemble those in the Microsoft programs that I usually use. The most frustrating aspect of the program was that the program doesn’t work in “layers” like Microsoft Word or Publisher. Therefore, graphics, once placed are permanent and can’t be moved. It took me a while to become accustomed to that.
But….the 80 page manual is excellent. I experimented with the features while I read through the manual. The software designer, Lynda Holler, also provided some live tutorials for the Crew, which helped immensely. So, after a few hours of learning time, I was on my way! There are also free tutorials on the Graphics Toolbox website that teach several specific projects.
The more I work with Graphic Toolbox, the more I like it! I am spending waayyy too much time experimenting with it and learning new things that the program can do! Graphics Toolbox enables the user to crop pictures, add borders, tile pictures, change one color to another in a picture, and much more.
Here are some of the projects I have done:

 

I really love the ribbon tool used here for my borders! The flower pattern in the Valentine above is also a strip of ribbon that was enlarged. 

 

 

 

 

It took me about 15 minutes to change this map using the drawing and color match features to add Antarctica and the text tool to label the continents. I was able to easily change the border colors in the “Covering the Continents” cover to match the map.
 




I have never used Photoshop or any other full graphics program, so I can’t compare Graphics Toolbox with other programs, but I certainly recommend taking a look at it to see if it’s something that will work for you!
 Graphics Toolbox sells for $149 and a fully functional 30 day trial is available for free. 

I received a free copy of Graphics Toolbox in exchange for my honest review. Be sure to check out the review of other Crew members to read their thoughts and see the projects they created!