GraphicSlicer - a skinning tool [Java]

hanmin · 09:32 PM

GraphicSlicer - a skinning tool [Java]

Quite a long while since I've started a thread. Here goes.

Have you ever tried skinning (as in creating skin) an application that requires you to have bits and pieces of graphics to form a bigger graphics. And, you are thinking, instead of pieces of graphics, it maybe easier for you to 'skin' the big graphics and then slice the pieces out. But it is PAIN to slice these graphics from a big chunk. For example, I've tried to skin the Eten dialer skin (more information here) and having to cut the pieces out of the 'bigger picture' is just not easy. Consider that I can do a quick job photoshopping the skins, slicing up the thing is SERIOUSLY PAINFUL.

So, now I introduce you to the GRAPHIC SLICER 3000. Ok, just graphic slicer. Written in Java (sorry for being a Java program, I know many of you hate it, but it is much faster for me to work with Java). This program reads an XML file, for coordinates to slice up chunks of graphics from a larger graphics. Once you have the XML configuration file done, you can happily just skin the big picture and slice as many times as you want. So, now you can leave the slicing for while you go onto bigger things, like 'skinning'!

Attached are two ZIP files.

GraphicSlicer.zip (12.4 KB)
- the Java class files
- a Windows executable BAT file
- short documents on the usage

BlackGlass_Blue.zip (1.32 MB)
- the guinea pig I used to test the software, works of http://www.paulya.com/
- you need this if you want to try a Quick Start on the software
- it has the original files as well as the files that I made to try to the slicing
- it is recommended that you download this file as all the graphics are marked with red borders, such that you can clearly see which parts goes where. If you are a Eten skin skinner, this will EASE the process A LOT.

Let me know if it doesn't work.. and also let me know if it works. I want to know if (if any) many is using relatively good Java (1.4) enabled PCs.

Limitation:
- XML configured
- no GUI
- read write BMP files only

--------------------------------------------------------------------

UPDATES:

22th January'07: GUI is tougher than I though. Won't be out soon especially the software doesn't seems to be much in demand. Rush me if you want GUI

20th January'07: GUI version will be out soon. Attached figure illustrating the advantages of GraphicSlicer in skinning.