This article explains how to convert Adobe Photoshop custom brushes from ABR files to PNG files so they can be used in other graphics programs. Additional information covers how to use Photoshop brushes in GIMP.

What to Know

  • Convert ABR to PNG: In ABRviewer, select File > Open brush sets > choose ABR file > Export > Thumbnails.Use PNG in GIMP: Open PNG file > Select > All > Edit > Copy. Next, go to Edit > Paste as > New Brush.

How to Convert ABR Brush Sets to PNG Files

Use ABRviewer, an open-source program that converts ABR files to the PNG format, to import custom brushes into your software of choice:

  • Open ABRviewer and select File > Open brush sets.
  • Choose an ABR file and select Open.
  • Select Export > Thumbnails.
  • Choose where you want to save the PNG files and select OK.

How to Use Photoshop Brushes in GIMP

GIMP does not require most ABR files to be converted; Photoshop brushes can be directly copied to the GIMP brushes directory. If the ABR file does not work, or if you would rather use the PNG files:

Open ABRviewer and select File > Open brush sets.

Choose an ABR file and select Open.

Select Export > Thumbnails.

Choose where you want to save the PNG files and select OK.

  • Open the PNG file in GIMP.
  • Go to Select > All.
  • Go to Edit > Copy.
  • Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C or Command + C to copy the image.
  • Go to Edit > Paste as > New Brush.
  • Enter a brush name and file name, then select OK.
  • The new brush will immediately be available for use with the paint brush tool.

Open the PNG file in GIMP.

Go to Select > All.

Go to Edit > Copy.

Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C or Command + C to copy the image.

Go to Edit > Paste as > New Brush.

Enter a brush name and file name, then select OK.

The new brush will immediately be available for use with the paint brush tool.

It’s also possible to use Photoshop brushes in Paint.NET and similar graphics program.

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