Need a web site button creator...

[Timbothecat]

Hi guys.

I'm looking for a program that will allow me to make buttons for a web site. It doesn't matter if the program costs money but I would like it to:


Be open source
Run on Ubuntu


I'm in web design and have been shat up the wall by MS and their ********. As a consequence I've moved my whole "operation" over to Ubuntu. I'm doing all my markup in Bluefish and loving it. I also have Kompozer if I need a wysiwyg tool but I'm less likely to use that as I feel more in control of the markup when I do it manually.

What I don't have though is something that will make really nice buttons. My artistic flare isn't great which is why i couldn't use Gimp for the job. I use it for just about everything else I do graphics wise and love it but if I start from scratch... well, let's just think Hindenburg!

I've attached an image of the sort of buttons I'd like to be able to create, so if anyone knows of a program that can do this kind of thing I'd love it if you could please let me know.

Thanks in advance guys.

All the best,

Tim.

[V for Vincent]

Gimp and inkscape should do the trick. Not webdesign-specific, but they'll definitely do.

[duckgoesoink]

What program did you use in Windows to make buttons like that? I didn't know there was such thing as a button-making program (learn something new everyday I guess). I just used Photoshop/Illustrator in Windows and MacOSX.

GIMP/Inkscape is perfect for the button making (and more, obviously). Just learn how to make shiny balls and pills and you've got buttons.

[Timbothecat]

Thanks guys.

I'll give Gimp and inkscape a shot.

I'd love to be able to take credit for those buttons but alas... Most of my attempts at buttons were done using Jasc Paint Shop Pro 9 and were usually a little clunky. I love the way the buttons pictured above look but it would be unethical of me to "borrow" them for the site I'm building so I'd rather make my own.

Hopefully the combination you've given me will hold me in good stead.

Thanks again guys,

Tim.

[banago]

Inkscape for sure.

[Xfcn]

GIMP actually has a pre-made solution for you!

Here's how:

1) Launch GIMP

2) On the Toolbar at the left, you'll see the menu option "Xtns". In there, you'll see "Buttons". There's currently only two options, but it does exist. It'll give you all kinds of options, which is great. It also lets you do logos and other stuff.

Hope this helps.

[st0n3cutt3r]

http://clairejones.deviantart.com/art/Glossy-Button-Tutorial-26090948

This might help. Also, if there are specific things that you're going for that you're unsure of how to achieve, you can always post your progress, and describe the next step that you're going for, or find a sample image to show as your end goal and then ask for tips and pointers.

[JanvL]

Try Xara LX, it is the better one compared to Inkscape.
I use both but Xara is easier to learn.

the programm
http://www.xaraxtreme.org/

the repo's
http://linuxappfinder.com/package/xaralx

also take the xaralx-svg so you can combine with inkscape.

Have fun

[JanvL]

PS

Try Quanta plus, its great for html/css etc.

[lyceum]

Check out these sites:

http://www.gimp.org/docs/script-fu-update.html

http://gug.sunsite.dk/scripts.php

GIMP has Script-Fu, which turns you into an artistic NINJA! (Sorry for the pun, I couldn't stop myself!) Script-Fu is awesome! It lets you do really cool stuff with one click of a button. Just play with it. I use GIMP for all of my art, and it is truly amazing.

Also, when making buttons, remember there is a "Rounded Rectangle" select feature to make rounded corners. It could be better, but still works great.If you need help, Google GIMP tutorials (or InkScape too). There are lots of great ones out there. If you are really serious about picking GIMP up fast, check out "Begining GIMP" by Akkana Peck (amazon.com has it cheep). She keeps her website for the book very well updated.

Good luck!

[Timbothecat]

Wow.

Thanks so much for your responses guys.

I've started using inkscape (well, doing the tutorials at least) and I have to say it's very impressive. I will certainly give all the other suggestions a shot as well as the more options I have, the better off I'll be in the long run.

I still shake my head in amazement though that all this stuff comes with the OS. How can MS not take their rightful place at the bottom of the heap when you compare their lame offerings to the stuff you get packaged with your Linux OS, FOR FREE!!! :guitar:

Anyway, thanks again for all your help. I'll keep you posted on my progress with these buttons.

All the best,

Tim.