ArcBrush

ArcBrush is a node-based image editor designed for 2D asset creation, offering a non-destructive workflow where users connect up to 89 different nodes to build complex pipelines. The platform addresses the challenge of producing multiple asset variants—such as color, size, and format—by allowing users to re-export all variations in a single pass, eliminating the need for repetitive manual exports. ArcBrush targets a range of creative professionals, including game artists, pixel artists, indie developers, illustrators, concept artists, texture artists, and designers, each benefiting from specialized features tailored to their workflows.

The software operates natively on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is implemented in C++. Its node-based approach allows users to load, filter, warp, mask, remap, and export images, with each operation represented as a node in a graph. Parameters remain live and editable, enabling users to make adjustments at any stage without losing flexibility, as only downstream nodes recalculate. arcb file format encapsulates all parameters, connections, and embedded assets, ensuring portability across supported platforms. ArcBrush supports live re-evaluation, where changes to source files in other applications trigger automatic updates in the pipeline.

Batch processing is a core feature, allowing users to process entire folders of images through custom pipelines. The Image Folder node supports glob-style filtering, recursive subfolder scanning, and sorting, while Export Batch manages output with configurable file naming and live progress tracking. Batch operations are handled natively by most nodes, and the Split node enables decomposition and routing of batches for granular processing. AI-aware batching provides transparency about credit usage and handles failures at the frame level.

Color management is streamlined through palette import and remapping tools. aseprite, compatible with software such as Aseprite, Photoshop, GIMP, Krita, Illustrator, Affinity, and Inkscape. Palette From Image extracts dominant colors from reference images. The Palette Remap node applies perceptual recoloring, maintaining highlights and shadows for natural results, and automates consistent naming of output files. Sprite sheet export is also supported, with the ability to generate TexturePacker-compatible JSON manifests for integration with game engines.

ArcBrush is available for free download, making its full feature set accessible without cost.