Useing GIMP?

[BNSF650]

Ok since i have never used GIMP how do i get started repaint stuff?

[ATSF3814]

I suggest you start by repainting Michael Stephen's 50ft boxcar:

http://www.golden-age-rails.com/freightcarpacks/ps1box.html

The template is very simple and is already broken up into layers for you with most everything labeled. As for how to do it, well as everyone has said since every railroad paint scheme is different, how you get from start to finish is going to be a bit different every time. Just figure out what works best for you and don't be afraid of making mistakes.

Good luck!

[BNSF650]

Ok what other stuff do i need?

[PapaXpress]

RW_Tools to edit the XML and RSBinTool to import the new DDS. I am not sure if Gimp can use the Nvidia tools, if they can I would suggest them.

[BNSF650]

Ok is that all i need?

[Kali]

You need a tool to split & recombine alpha channels too - I've never had to use one so I don't know which one is any use, though.

[MadMike1024]

You need a tool to split & recombine alpha channels too - I've never had to use one so I don't know which one is any use, though.

I've learned that Gimp has the ability to transfer the alpha channels to a mask that is editable. If you've done your work in layers, you can cancel or add as needed for each layer.

[BNSF650]

Ok so how do i get the boxcar template in Gimp?

[MadMike1024]

Ok so how do i get the boxcar template in Gimp?

Start Gimp, then click on File, and Open. Then find the 'y50_main_standard40.psd' file and open.

[BNSF650]

Ok i got it open and got the ends repainted but now how do i paint the rest of the car and add logos?

[PapaXpress]

You paint the rest of the car as you did with the ends. As for logos, I had to draw my own.

[harryadkins]

There are tons of logos available online. I open the logo as a new graphic file (Paintshop Pro) along with the file I'm reskinning. When I get ready to past the logo, I copy it, draw a selection box where I want it to go on the car/loco, and paste into selection.

[BNSF650]

Yea i think i am going to buy Paintshop pro. Dont really like GIMP to well.