Patterns generated by AB cannot be edited using AB. To edit patterns generated by AB requires either graphic image software like "Microsoft PaintBrush", "Corel Draw", etc. or BPD. AB was specifically designed to work with BPD and combined with it provides a powerful set of imagery tools brought together especially for "Beaders."
To use AB, images are imported into the Image Conditioning function using Windows Standard File Opening Dialog. File formats that can be imported are: BMP, JPG, PCX and several others. The Image Conditioner also accepts input from any TWAIN device such as digital cameras or scanners. Once an images is opened by the program for processing, it can, at any time, be saved in the formats mentioned above.
The Image Conditioner has many tools for preparing the image for automatic conversion to a pattern by the Pattern Generation Function. There are six editing tools, three orientation tools and Four Special effects.
The editing features include:
Image orientation tools include:
Special effects tools include: Processed Images are copied to the Pattern Generation Window where they can be copied to the Windows Clip Board and transferred to other programs that can paste images from the Windows Clip Board.
PixelFix
a tool for correcting color anomalies, such as scratches, that exist on the image.
Brighten
a tool for lightning the colors in the entire image.
Darken
the converse of Brighten.
Enhance
improves overall picture appearance.
Sharpen
increases image contrast.
Soften
decreases image contrast.
Re-size
a tool for making the image proportionately larger or smaller.
Rotate
a tool for rotating the image clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Compliment
a tool for changing every color in the image to its Complimentary equivalent.
Outline
a tool for removing color and outlining the predominant features of the image.
Oil Paint
a tool for changing the appearance of the image to that of an Oil Painting.
Gray Scale
a tool for substituting shade of gray for the image colors while maintaining contrast.
Once copied into the Pattern Generation Window, the image can be automatically converted to a Bead Pattern in any one of three stitch types; Brick, Loom/Square, or Peyote. Peyote patterns may be in a 2-drop configuration. Scale can be any value between 1.0:1.0 or 1.0:4.0.
The final proportions are maintained by selecting a bead type or by entering values for the number of beads per inch, across and down, as measured in a finished piece. Default values are provided for Japanese and Czechoslovakian Beads sizes 11 through 14, including the Delica (approximately size 12).
The user also specifies the number of colors the program is to consider while converting. The selections range from Unlimited to 16 and include the 256 Web Safe Colors
Once all selections have been made, the user can mark the area of the image that is to be included in the conversion and press the "Pattern" button. The program does the rest and when it is finished, the user can print the resulting pattern or save it in "The Bead Pattern Designer" Version 1.01 format, Version 1.80 format (future version of BPD) or as an image in any of the formats mentioned above.
The program is simple to use but does require some basic knowledge of color as it relates to computers, computer monitors and printers. The On-Line Manual includes Detailed Information on how to use the program and includes tutorials that help tie details together. Using the Manual is like Browsing a Web Site.