Altering the Living Avatar Background
Note: Instructions are designed for use with the GIMP Version 2.2
Note: All changes are static. The background will revert to white upon adding or removing items to the Living Avatar

From This:

To This:



From your "Edit Avatar Settings" in the control Panel right click the .png image of "Your Current Avatar" and select "save image as". Save image.


Open the .png file using GIMP.

Create a New image that is 125x125 pixels.


Create a background you like. (Play around with the Fader feature to get some effects like shown below)


Add an Alpha Channel (transparent underside to image) to the Image by going to (Layer->Transparancy->Add Alpha Channel)


Use the eraser tool and remove all of the white background. You can make the eraser brush as small as you need it (this takes a little time and patience). Note: As your brush gets smaller increase the Zoom to make it easier to use.


Use "select all" (Select->Select All) to select the Character and Sign and other equipment from the original image. Copy (Ctrl+C)


Paste Into new Image with your created background (Edit->Paste Into)(should center itself as the images are the same size)


Save as a .png file

Use the upload function in the Edit Avatar section of TV to upload your new avatar.

While you have your avatar on your PC you may wish to color your hair or clothing (both are done the same way) heres how to do that. I find it easier to do with the white or transparent background (between steps 6 and 7 above).


1) While using Gimp select the Bucket fill tool and color you want for your hair

2) Bucket fill the majority of your hair notice that the edges of your hair will remain the original colors as the hair is given a shadow effect from L.A.

3) In the color select window add more or less value to recreate the shadow effect in another color (usually 3 shades is enough for an image this small)

4) Use the Square 5x5 pixel pencil to apply these extra shadow shades to your hair as you see fit.


Thank You to those who helped edit this How To....You know who you are

This post has been edited by Zarathustra: Mar 2 2008, 06:44 PM

That is a great How To, blackspyder, I am happy that you asked me to help you out with the final forms of it, once again great job. I am glad we have such great people willing to help out

-Steve