Top Open‑Source Image Editors with Advanced Layer Support

Curated list of the best open‑source image editors that provide robust, non‑destructive layer handling, blending modes, masks, and other advanced compositing features.

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#2 GIMP

The GNU Image Manipulation Program offers a full suite of layer types, masks, blending modes, and a powerful GEGL engine for high‑quality compositing.

#3 Krita

A professional digital painting application with unlimited layers, vector layers, group layers, and advanced blending options.

A lightweight, pixel‑art focused editor that supports multiple layers, frame‑by‑frame animation, and a variety of blend modes.

#5 MyPaint

Optimized for drawing tablets, MyPaint includes a flexible layer system with opacity, blending, and layer groups.

#6 Pinta

A simple yet capable editor inspired by Paint.NET, offering basic layer support, opacity control, and blend modes.

Mac‑only raster editor built on Cocoa, featuring layers, gradients, and a variety of blend modes.

A fork of PhotoFiltre, PhotoFlare adds true layer handling, masks, and a range of adjustment filters.

#9 Fotoxx

A photo editing suite that includes a layer stack, masks, and non‑destructive adjustments.

Specialized HDR editor with layer‑based tone‑mapping, exposure blending, and mask support.

#11 Darktable

A RAW workflow application offering a virtual layer stack via modules, masks, and blend modes for non‑destructive editing.

Advanced RAW processor with a powerful non‑destructive editing pipeline that mimics layer‑based adjustments.

#13 Pixelitor

Java‑based image editor with unlimited layers, layer groups, masks, and a rich set of blend modes.

#14 Inkscape

Vector graphics editor that treats each object as a layer; supports grouping, clipping, and blend modes for complex compositions.

#15 Natron

Node‑based compositing software offering a full layer/track system, keying, and extensive OpenFX plugins.

While known for 3D, Blender’s compositor provides a node‑based layer system, masks, and advanced blending for 2D work.

2D animation suite with a powerful layer hierarchy, vector layers, and bitmap layers, all supporting blend modes.

#18 OpenToonz

Open‑source animation production tool featuring raster and vector layers, effects, and sophisticated compositing options.

A unified version of Krita optimized for both desktop and tablet, retaining full layer capabilities across devices.

#20 GNU Paint

Simple drawing program that now includes basic layer support and opacity controls.