Computer-Aided Design

In Week 2, we explored different CAD software to understand their features, workflows, and design capabilities, gaining hands-on experience in 2D and 3D modeling.

What is CAD and Why Use It?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the use of software to create precise 2D and 3D models for engineering, architecture, and product design. It allows for efficient design iteration, accurate measurements, and easy modifications compared to traditional hand-drawn sketches. CAD enhances productivity, improves design accuracy, and enables seamless collaboration, making it an essential tool for modern design and manufacturing.

Raster Graphics

Raster graphics are images made up of tiny pixels arranged in a grid. They are commonly used in digital painting, photo editing, and texture design. Unlike vector graphics, which are based on mathematical shapes, raster images depend on resolution, meaning they can lose quality when scaled up. Popular raster formats include JPEG, PNG, and BMP. While raster graphics are excellent for detailed and artistic designs, they are less suitable for precise technical drawings used in CAD.

GIMP

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free and open-source image editing software used for tasks like photo retouching, graphic design, and digital painting. It offers powerful tools similar to Photoshop, including layers, masks, brushes, and color adjustments, making it a versatile choice for beginners and professionals alike.

Creating a Color Pop Effect in GIMP

The Color Pop Effect makes an image black and white while keeping a specific object in color, making it stand out. Here’s how I did it step by step, starting from installing GIMP.

Step 1: Installing GIMP First, I downloaded GIMP from the official website (https://www.gimp.org/downloads/) and installed it on my computer. Once the installation was complete, I launched GIMP to start working on my image.

Step 2: Opening My Image I went to File → Open and selected the image I wanted to enhance with the color pop effect.

Step 3: Duplicating the Layer To keep my original image safe, I right-clicked on the image layer in the Layers Panel and selected Duplicate Layer. Now, I had two layers:

Top Layer (Duplicate) – This would be converted to black and white. Bottom Layer (Original) – The original colored image remained untouched.

Step 4: Converting the Top Layer to Black & White I selected the top layer and went to Colors → Desaturate → Desaturate. GIMP gave me three options:

Lightness Luminosity Average I tried each option and chose the one that looked best before clicking OK. Now, my image was black and white, while the original color version was still underneath.

Step 5: Revealing the Color Using the Eraser Tool (Simple Method) At first, I tried using the Eraser Tool (Shortcut: Shift + E). I adjusted the Hardness to around 50-75% in the Tool Options to avoid harsh edges.

Then, I carefully erased over the object I wanted to keep in color. As I erased, the original color from the bottom layer started showing through. However, I realized that this method was destructive—any mistakes would be difficult to fix.

So instead, I switched to using a Layer Mask, which allowed me to make corrections easily.

Step 6: Using a Layer Mask (Non-Destructive Method – Recommended) I right-clicked on the top black-and-white layer in the Layers Panel and chose Add Layer Mask. In the dialog box, I selected White (full opacity) and clicked Add.

Then, I selected the Brush Tool (Shortcut: P), set my Foreground Color to Black (D to reset colors, then X to swap), and carefully painted over the areas I wanted in color.

Black revealed the colors from the bottom layer. White hid them again if I needed to correct mistakes. I adjusted the Opacity and Hardness of my brush to refine the effect and make the transition smooth.

Step 7: Making Final Adjustments To improve the final result, I made a few tweaks:

I went to Colors → Brightness & Contrast to fine-tune the black-and-white layer. I used the Blur Tool for softer edges where needed.

Step 8: Saving My Work Once I was satisfied with the effect, I went to File → Export As and saved the image as a PNG or JPEG, depending on where I wanted to use it.

That’s how I created the Color Pop Effect in GIMP! I found that using the Layer Mask method was the best approach since it allowed me to make changes without permanently altering my image.