Hi Whit,

>*********** REPLY SEPARATOR ***********
>
>On 4/08/2006 at 5:10 AM conjunction02 wrote:
>Hi, Everyone:
>
>I am absolutely new to creating anything within Vassal and thought
>that I might try editing a module by creating a new counter set for it.
>
>I reviewed the Vassal site documentation but am cloudy about a couple
>of things...
>
>First, how does one create the artwork for counters? Is there a
>useful program for this (preferably freeware)? 

Basically, you can use any Image program you like. Even Paint in Windows XP can 
be used. More advanced programs will give you more control and allow you to add 
better looking effects and do things like create partially transparent images 
that can be used in layers to show on top of counters to mark thinks like 'Out 
of Supply' or 'Has moved'.

The Vassal FAQ has some details of free programs available. Personally, I use 
the Gimp, which is free and very powerful, but also quite complicated. It is 
not a program you become proficient with overnight, but there are extensive 
online tutorials to assist you.


>Secondly, how does one make certain that the counters created are
>sized correctly? (It doesn't appear that there is an easy way to do
>this.)


Well this is really up to you. I assume you are not asking how do I make all my 
counters the same size :)

The 'right' size for the counters depends on the size of the hexes on the map. 
Or, the size of the hexes on the map determines the size of the 
counters...Which come first?

Basically, you want both the map and the counters small enough so that small 
details are easily distinguished at full magnification. Usually, the counters 
is the limiting factor, they cant go any smaller without being unreadable. From 
there, that determines you map hex size. Typical sizes for counters are 45x45 
(small) to 75x75 (large). Other modules may use smaller or large counters.

By far the best way is to learn is to find a module you like the look of and 
take it apart to see what makes it tick. 


>Thirdly, in certain mods placing a cursor over a counter reveals an
>enlarged view of the unit. How does one accomplish that little feat?

This is a 'Mouse-over Stack Viewer' that can be added to any Map component.

>Please excuse my ignorance about everything--I just thought that I
>would try counters first, and maybe that is a bit much.

No problems. Have a look at the FAQ at 
http://wiki.vassalengine.org/doku.php?id=faq which has a lot of tidbits.

Cheers,
Brent.

>Regards,
>
>Whit

____________________________________________________________
Brent Easton                       
Analyst/Programmer                               
University of Western Sydney                                   
Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]



 
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