The PxR Spriting Encyclopedia

[SassySnivy]

.:*~So...How do I Start?~*:.

.:*~What Program Should I Use?~*:.
There are a MULTITUDE of different software you can use: most people merely use Microsoft Paint, and that is plenty enough to make pixel art. However, there are other programs that support transparency and layering that can make spriting more convenient; programs such as Photoshop, Paint.NET, GIMP, and the like. There also exist advanced programs which exist SOLELY to make pixel art; for example, Graphics Gale and Aseprite. Graphics Gale allows for several advanced features that will make pixel art much more convenient, and it is made purely for pixel art. There exist several other programs like this that are made by either independent companies or developers. Once again, this isn't the point of this paragraph, so do a little research and find the program which you prefer most. Don't be afraid to try something new! It may be your new default program.


.:*~The Importance of File Types~*:.
The main thing I want to go over here is to beware the evil JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) file type. JPEG is wonderful for photos because it reduces the file's space used but also doesn't really change the picture aesthetically. However, when it comes to pixel art...JPEG files are the devil. They will ruin the quality of your pixel art. JPEG originated pretty much solely for photographs and the like.

If you'd like to upload your picture somewhere, save it as PNG (Portable Network Graphics). However, I've heard that PNG takes up a bit more space on your computer. I save all of my "work space" files as 24-Bitmap (most image uploaders will convert this file type to JPEG), and have seperate .PNG files purely for uploading individual images. Since I started using Graphics Gale, though, most of my files are by default saved in .gal format.


.:*~Starting the Actual Artwork~*:.
So how should you start? There are several ways to go about starting your pixel art piece, the following three being the most commonly used ones:

1.) Line Art

Many pixel artists will first sketch out a rough outline of what they want to make. They then refine the outlines to create a line art of sorts. From here, they add the colors and shading. It's a very simple-sounding method, and is the preferred method of novices and beginners. It's also rather convenient when you are going for a less realistic approach.

1a.) Pixelling Over a Scanned Image
Pixel-overs are the traces of the pixel art world. However, if you are best with drawing out a concept on paper, scanning it, and refining it in your preferred program, this is a very useful method. Make sure to go over and thicken the lines in your sketch so it will appear relatively well when you go to shrink the image (if that's what you plan to do).

2.) Blocking

As you can see in the image above, there are also several artists that prefer to "block" in the basic shapes and colors and refine it along the way. It is most convenient for more realistic pieces and/or scenery.