In the world of Linux, there are numerous tools that allow users to draw over any application, offering a unique way to annotate, highlight, or simply doodle. This article will guide you through some of the best tools available and provide tips on how to use them effectively.
Yes, it is possible to draw over any app on Linux using various tools such as Compiz with Annotate plugin, Ardesia, Pylote, Gromit-mpx, and the GNOME Shell Extension – Draw On Your Screen. These tools allow you to annotate, highlight, or doodle on your screen, providing a unique way to interact with applications.
Compiz with Annotate Plugin
Compiz is a composite manager for Linux that comes with a variety of plugins, one of which is the Annotate plugin. This tool allows you to draw on the screen and take screenshots.
To install Compiz and the required packages, use the following command:
sudo apt-get install compiz compizconfig-settings-manager compiz-plugins-extraOnce installed, you can enable the Annotate plugin through the CompizConfig Settings Manager. The Annotate plugin provides several drawing options, including freehand drawing, lines, and rectangles. You can also erase annotations and take screenshots.
Ardesia
Ardesia is a free digital sketchpad software compatible with any composite manager. It allows you to make colored free-hand annotations with digital ink anywhere on your screen.
To install Ardesia, use the following command:
sudo apt-get install ardesiaArdesia provides a toolbar for drawing and taking screenshots. You can choose from a variety of colors and adjust the size of your brush for more precise annotations.
Pylote
Pylote is a software that allows you to draw on the screen of your computer. It requires Python and PyQt4 to run.
To install Pylote, download it from the official website and run the following command:
python pylote.pyPylote allows you to draw on the desktop or imported images. You can save your drawings as images or clear the screen with a single click.
Gromit-mpx
Gromit-mpx is a screen annotation tool that allows you to draw on the screen. It does not require a compositing desktop manager but can benefit from one.
To install Gromit-mpx, use the following command:
sudo apt-get install gromit-mpxOnce installed, you can start painting on the screen using the Pause key. Gromit-mpx provides line and text marker tools for drawing.
GNOME Shell Extension – Draw On Your Screen
This GNOME Shell extension provides a drawing tool that allows you to draw on the screen. You can draw basic shapes, text, and freehand drawings, and save your drawings as screenshots.
To install this extension, visit the link provided and click on the toggle button to install it.
Conclusion
Drawing over apps in Linux can be a handy feature for presentations, tutorials, or just for fun. These tools provide a variety of options for screen annotation. Choose the one that best suits your needs and system requirements. Remember to explore the settings of each tool to make the most out of its features. Happy drawing!
Drawing over apps on Linux allows users to annotate, highlight, or doodle on their screen, providing a unique way to interact with applications, make presentations, or create tutorials.
Yes, with the tools mentioned in this article, you can draw over any application on Linux. These tools work independently of the application and allow you to draw on top of it.
No, the tools mentioned in this article work with any composite manager or even without one. However, some tools may benefit from a compositing desktop manager for smoother drawing and better integration.
Yes, all the tools mentioned in this article allow you to save your drawings as images. You can easily capture screenshots of your annotations or save the entire screen with the drawings.
Yes, most of the drawing tools mentioned in this article provide options to adjust the size and color of your brush. You can choose from a variety of colors and adjust the brush size according to your preference.
Yes, all the tools mentioned in this article provide options to erase or clear your drawings. You can undo or erase specific annotations or clear the entire screen with a single click.
Yes, these drawing tools can be installed and used on any Linux distribution, as long as the necessary dependencies are met. The installation commands provided in this article are specific to Ubuntu-based distributions but can be adapted for other distributions.
Some drawing tools, like Pylote, allow you to draw on both the desktop and imported images. You can open an image within the tool and draw on top of it, making it useful for image annotations or editing.
While these drawing tools offer great functionality, it’s worth noting that they may not work seamlessly with all applications. Some apps may not allow drawing on top of their windows or may have limitations in terms of compatibility. Additionally, performance may vary depending on your system configuration and the complexity of the drawings.
Yes, these drawing tools can be used for professional purposes, such as presentations, demonstrations, or tutorials. They provide a convenient way to highlight or annotate important information on the screen, making it easier to convey ideas or concepts.
