Computer help!

[barb.j.enders]

I use a Chromebook as my computing device.  I am loving all the patterns that are out there and would like to try my hand at converting stuff I see on Pintrest, Google etc into patterns.  I have tried to find Inkscape and Silhouette (https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/?set_lang_code=en) for the Chromebook but they don't seem to be available.  Does anyone else use a Chromebook for design?  If so, what programs are you using?

[meflick]

Barb, it appears from my quick Google search that you cannot use Inkscape on a chromebook unless you are using one that allows you to run Linux apps.

I did find this which may provide you with some alternative programs you might could try on your chromebook. Looks liked they are several  you can try.

https://alternativeto.net/software/inkscape/?platform=chrome-os

I do not have a Chromebook myself so I have no experience with it or any of these programs. Let us know if you find something that works for you.

 

[barb.j.enders]

8 hours ago, meflick said:

Barb, it appears from my quick Google search that you cannot use Inkscape on a chromebook unless you are using one that allows you to run Linux apps.

I did find this which may provide you with some alternative programs you might could try on your chromebook. Looks liked they are several  you can try.

https://alternativeto.net/software/inkscape/?platform=chrome-os

I do not have a Chromebook myself so I have no experience with it or any of these programs. Let us know if you find something that works for you.

 

My tech support (hubby) did try to run it with Linux but there were glitches with being able to do that.  I think as much as the Chromebook is great for emails, forums and general reading info I might have to break down and purchase a "proper" (!) computer.

[new2woodwrk]

Chromebooks are not full PC's, they are scaled down Google products as you are finding out.

You are going to find it difficult to get a full scaled graphic editing program for the CB

Here are a few you can try:

https://beebom.com/best-drawing-apps-chromebook/

[meflick]

1 hour ago, barb.j.enders said:

My tech support (hubby) did try to run it with Linux but there were glitches with being able to do that.  I think as much as the Chromebook is great for emails, forums and general reading info I might have to break down and purchase a "proper" (!) computer.

Yes, unfortunately as new2woodwrk has noted, the Chromebook has its limitations since it cannot run full Windows style programs. One of the reasons I have never gotten one. I have too many programs that I use that needs the full power that you cannot get with a Chromebook.  I have my IPad to use when I just want to do the things like email, forums, etc. while I am an Apple user, I also keep a Windows PC to run some of the programs I have that need it. I do have a few programs I use that require that since I won’t run PC things on my Mac even though I know I could do so in a couple of different ways. The good news is that you can find fairly cheap full Windows PC computers. Perhaps Santa can bring you one.  

[OCtoolguy]

17 hours ago, meflick said:

Yes, unfortunately as new2woodwrk has noted, the Chromebook has its limitations since it cannot run full Windows style programs. One of the reasons I have never gotten one. I have too many programs that I use that needs the full power that you cannot get with a Chromebook.  I have my IPad to use when I just want to do the things like email, forums, etc. while I am an Apple user, I also keep a Windows PC to run some of the programs I have that need it. I do have a few programs I use that require that since I won’t run PC things on my Mac even though I know I could do so in a couple of different ways. The good news is that you can find fairly cheap full Windows PC computers. Perhaps Santa can bring you one.  

I bought a full featured used Toshiba laptop on eBay a while back for $60. I did it so that when my wife's laptop dies, I can just shove this one in it's place. She is not one to learn new things so I try to keep everything simple. Check eBay. I've never been burned on what I've purchased. Just check the sellers ratings.

 

[danny]

I was in your Position Long ago.  I am a Believer of a Desk Top Computer.

I use Firefox.  Tried Crome and I just had to much trouble, so....  :+}

Been using Firefox for a Decade or more.  No problems.  Anyway....  :+}

 

[OCtoolguy]

7 hours ago, danny said:

I was in your Position Long ago.  I am a Believer of a Desk Top Computer.

I use Firefox.  Tried Crome and I just had to much trouble, so....  :+}

Been using Firefox for a Decade or more.  No problems.  Anyway....  :+}

 

I was a Firefox guy too until Mozilla took the wrong side of a dispute. So I switched to Chrome. I was ok with it but then somebody put me on to Opera. I really like it.

[FrankEV]

On 12/8/2021 at 4:50 PM, danny said:

I was in your Position Long ago.  I am a Believer of a Desk Top Computer.

I use Firefox.  Tried Crome and I just had to much trouble, so....  :+}

Been using Firefox for a Decade or more.  No problems.  Anyway....  :+}

 

I too,am a believer in a desk top PC, or at least a large screen monitor and full size keyboard that can be operated with a full workstation lap top.  I actually use two large (27") monitors ihtw my Desk top PC which allows me to jump back and forth beween programs or the ability to see more than one image within the same program.

To manipulate/convert patterns in Inkscape, or any other program, it is necessary to be able to zoom WAY in to see the details.  Not an easy thing to do on a small screen Laptop.  

BTW, I have no problems with Chrome.

Edited December 10, 2021 by FrankEV

[WolfmoonCT]

I have dual 27" monitors also.  I put a 32" 1080P TV above them  hooked up to FireTV... 

[barb.j.enders]

I tend to follow what my IT guy (hubby) says.  At this point I really just use a computing device for emails, banking and scrolling through social media.  That being said, I will be retiring in the spring and hope to manipulate patterns a bit.  Seems like I might have a huge learning curve.  I did download one app and tried.  Wasn't too successful.  You seem to have to know something to start and I didn't.  I will leave this project for another month when I have time to sit and learn new stuff!!

 

[OCtoolguy]

14 hours ago, barb.j.enders said:

I tend to follow what my IT guy (hubby) says.  At this point I really just use a computing device for emails, banking and scrolling through social media.  That being said, I will be retiring in the spring and hope to manipulate patterns a bit.  Seems like I might have a huge learning curve.  I did download one app and tried.  Wasn't too successful.  You seem to have to know something to start and I didn't.  I will leave this project for another month when I have time to sit and learn new stuff!!

 

Hang in there Barb. I've never had problems learning new things but for some reason Inkscape has eluded me but it's starting to penetrate my grey matter. Things are beginning to make sense and working. You'll get there. But I found having a good fast computer is most important. I've got an Acer pc with I-5 processor and 16 gig of memory. So the problem is me and not the machine. Do your research before buying another computer. Find one that is designed around graphics.

[spirithorse]

Maybe one of these programs will help.

5 free tools for editing images on a Chromebook (pcworld.com)

God Bless! Spirithorse

[barb.j.enders]

11 hours ago, spirithorse said:

Maybe one of these programs will help.

5 free tools for editing images on a Chromebook (pcworld.com)

God Bless! Spirithorse

Thanks for the info.  I will spend some time in the new year trying to figure some things out.  December has turned into a real different month than expected!