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

Paint.NET Effects Design Overview - Start here!
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 1 of 4 - Simple)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 2 of 4 - Intermediate)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 3 of 4 - Complex)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 4 of 4 - Odds and Ends)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 5 of 4 - Beyond CodeLab)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 6 - Adding Help)
How to Write an Effect Plugin (Part 7 - Extra Surface)
How to Write a Shape for Paint.NET (Part 8 - Writing Shapes)
Sample Code for User Interface Elements

Using the Editor

Download fonts for use in CodeLab: Consolas, Envy Code R, Hack.
Using the Code Editor
Designing a User Interface for Your Effect
Building a DLL File

More Information

Here is some more information that you may find useful:
Check for CodeLab Updates
History of CodeLab
Learn C#

News

CodeLab 6.5 Released
(February 19, 2022)
This latest release of CodeLab for Paint.NET includes the ability to edit shape files, TXT files, and write file type plugins. It also features the Roslyn C# compiler.
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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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HTML Editor 1.5 Released
(March 31, 2016)
This latest release is a complete rewrite adding a wysiwyg editor mode and a much improved UI.
More...