CodeLab Help

How to use CodeLab to create Paint.NET plugins

CodeLab is a Paint.NET "effect" that allows you to write code that is compiled on the fly and is then executed in the Paint.NET effect engine on your current selection. With CodeLab you can implement almost any type of effect you want if you have the programming and mathematical talent to do so. This plugin works by presenting you with a code editor that you can use to type in C# code that is then compiled and executed (rendered) as soon as you stop typing. Once you are happy with your effect, you can save it as a DLL file and share that with your friends!

Designing and Developing Effects

• Tutorials: Using CodeLab to Write a Paint.NET Plugin

Using the Editor

• Using the Code Editor
• Designing a User Interface for Your Effect
• Building a DLL File

Supported Fonts

You may choose between Consolas, Courier New, and Verdana fonts to view your code. These fonts are built-in to Windows. If they are not available, you may need to download them.

Or, you may download and install these popular programming fonts from the following web sites:

- Envy Code R
- Hack

The following fonts support Programming Ligatures: (Showing ≤ instead of <= etc.)

- Cascadia Code
- Fira Code
- JetBrains Mono ← This is the one I use.

You can choose your font from the User Interface section of the Settings ⚙️ screen.

More Information

Here is some more information that you may find useful:
• Main CodeLab Page (Download)
• History of CodeLab
• Learn C#

News

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(July 1, 2025)
Solve sudoku puzzles for fun! Over 200 puzzles at all levels included.
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CodeLab 6.13 Released
(November 17, 2024)
This latest release of CodeLab for Paint.NET includes the ability to write GPU accelerated plugins.
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Double-Six Dominoes 3.1
(May 10, 2021)
This long-awaited refresh of the most popular dominoes game on Download.com is now available!
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