GIMP
GIMP 3.2.4 is a cross-platform open-source editor for photo retouching, raster editing and image compositing, with layers, masks, selections, paths, color management, filters and plugins.
What GIMP provides
GIMP handles photo retouching, cutouts, layers, masks, paths, web images and basic graphic design across Windows, macOS and Linux. XCF keeps the editable project state, while PNG and JPEG are delivery formats that usually discard layers and masks.
Projects and extensions
Keep original images, XCF projects and exported files in separate locations. Plugins and scripts can execute code and may be incompatible with a major version, so verify their source and test them against a copied project before using them in daily work.
Maintenance note
This page reviews GIMP 3.2.4 for Windows, macOS and Linux, including layers, masks, color management, XCF storage, export checks and extension boundaries. Content review date: 2026-08-23.
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GIMP 3.2.4 layers, masks and export guide
Use a copy of an image to practice layers, selections and masks, save the XCF project, and then export a delivery format with the required size and color settings.
Before you start
- Prepare a test image and an untouched original copy; do not edit the only source file.
- Confirm the target pixel size, color space, transparency and file-size requirements.
- Keep default plugins and color settings during the first test so the baseline is easy to reproduce.
Installation steps
- 01
Install the platform package
Verify GIMP 3.2.4 and the system architecture, then confirm language, user configuration path, display scaling and color-management prompts.
- 02
Create a non-destructive layer workflow
Open the copied image, duplicate the base layer, make a selection and apply a mask so the original pixels remain recoverable.
- 03
Save XCF and export a copy
Save the editable XCF project first, then export PNG or JPEG with an explicit destination and inspect dimensions, transparency and quality.
Quick start
- 01
Practice selections and masks
Select a simple subject, refine the edge and toggle the mask to compare the edit without deleting the source pixels.
- 02
Check color and scale
Confirm the color profile, pixel dimensions and interpolation before resizing, especially when preparing a web or print asset.
- 03
Record the project state
Keep the XCF, original image, exported files and any required fonts or plugins together with a short change note.
Usage tips
- XCF preserves editing structure; export formats are for delivery and may not retain layers or masks.
- Install extensions one at a time, check compatibility with GIMP 3 and keep a configuration backup before enabling scripts.
- Large layers and undo history consume memory; save checkpoints and close unused projects during heavy edits.
Troubleshooting and uninstall
Why does an export look different from the canvas?
Check color profile, transparency, pixel dimensions and export quality, then reopen the exported file in a separate viewer.
Why is a plugin missing or failing?
Confirm the plugin path, version and dependency, restart GIMP and test it in a copied project. Older extensions may not support GIMP 3.
- Preserve projects and settingsBack up XCF files, originals, exports, brushes, plugins and color profiles that the next installation needs.
- Uninstall after the backup checkClose GIMP, uninstall through the operating system and clear user configuration only after confirming that projects open from the backup.
Frequently asked questions
What image tasks suit GIMP?
It suits photo retouching, cutouts, layer compositing, web images and basic graphic design. It is primarily a raster editor rather than a page-layout, video-editing or parametric CAD tool.
What is the difference between XCF and PNG or JPEG?
XCF keeps layers, masks, paths and editable project state, while PNG and JPEG are delivery formats that usually do not retain the editing structure.
Can GIMP plugins and scripts be installed directly?
Verify their source, version and permissions first. Plugins and scripts execute code and older extensions may not work with GIMP 3, so test them on a copied configuration.