What it does
Corel Painter provides digital painting and photo-art tools for Windows and Mac. Its media include watercolour, thick paint, pastel and other configurable brush types.
Open a Photoshop file through File > Open or Open Document, select the PSD, then paint over it with Painter’s brushes. File > Save As saves the edited document. For work started on a blank canvas, brush-control panels adjust size, shape, angle and flow; the Mixer and colour sets help keep related colours together.
Fluid brushes work with layer transparency, while colour-based Selection brushes isolate areas for changes to colour, lighting or texture. Painter also has cloning and auto-painting tools for photo-based work, plus perspective guides and mirror painting for composition.
The full trial lasts 15 days and needs no credit card. Activation requires an internet connection and product registration. Paid access is available as a purchase or a monthly or yearly subscription; Painter runs on Windows and Mac.
Strengths
- Several natural-media brush families share one application.
- Brushes, textures and patterns can be customized.
Watch out for
- Product activation requires an internet connection and registration.
Best for
- Natural-media illustration
- Photo-based painting
Sources
- Digital Art & Painting Software: Corel Painter 2023 (Oct 27, 2026)
- PSD File: What a .psd is and How to Open it (Oct 27, 2026)
- Free Digital Art Software Download: Corel Painter Free Trial (Oct 27, 2026)