How to install Paint.NET effects and plugins (step-by-step guide with pictures)

The credits for this tutorial go to its respected owner, you can find the tutorial and some more information in the following links:

- http://boltbait.com/pdn/InstallingEffects.asp

- http://forums.getpaint.net/index.php?/topic/1708-how-to-install-pluginsgeneral-plugin-troubleshooting-thread/

If you have any questions regarding the tutorial feel free to comment in the comments section.

- Hoop

Step 1: Once the download starts, you will be prompted with the following message:

Click the save button to save the ZIP file to your computer.

Note: If you are using Chrome instead of Internet Explorer, after clicking the download link, your screen will look like this:

If so, click the file name as shown above and skip to step 4 below.

Step 2: When prompted for the "Save as" file name, click the "Desktop" button on the left, then the "Save" button as shown here:

Step 3: When the download is complete, click the "Open" button:

This will open a window showing the DLL file (or files) that you downloaded.

Step 4: When the file list window opens, press Ctrl-A to select all of the files in that window:

Right-click the mouse on one of the selected files and choose "Copy" from the context menu that appears.

Step 5: Next, find your Paint.NET icon (either on your desktop or start menu), right-click on it and choose "Properties" from the menu that appears:

Step 6: When the "Properties" window opens, click the "Find Target" (XP) or the "Open File Location" (Win7) button:

This will open a Windows Explorer window to your Paint.NET directory.

Step 7: In the Paint.NET directory, double-click on the "Effects" folder.

Step 8: In the Effects folder, right-click the mouse and choose "Paste":

If you have followed the instructions carefully, you should see the following message during the copy process:

When the copy is finished, restart Paint.NET and look in the Effects menu for your new effects. 

Note: You may need to look around for your effect. Many effects load to submenus in the Effect menu. Other effects load themselves in the Adjustments menu.