turn digital pictures into paintings?

Question

I am looking for a program I can turn my digital pictures into paintings. perferably free or at least a free trial

Answer 1

Here are six programs that will do what you want. Most have free trials to check them out.

Virtual Painter is the easiest to use, but the results are less than satisfactory, and the results and options are so limited. I really would not recommend this one at all, but wanted to pu t it here in case you heard of it elsewhere and wondered.
http://www.virtualpainter5.com/

Gertrudis Pro is the second-easiest of the programs to use, with quite impressive results. I love this program. However, if you want one with more brush types and greater control, then try one of the next three. http://www.gertrudisgraphics.com/

Twisted Brush is absolutely amazing! The learning curve is a little steeper, but not as much as corel painter programs. However, if you decide to purchase it ... take note that only the perpetual license ($150) does not expire ... if you buy the other licenses, the program will expire in 6-12 months.
http://www.pixarra.com/

Corel has two excellent programs. Painter IX.5 is the best of the two, with the most features and most configurability. Also the steepest learning curve ... and price. It sells for $350. I have and like painter, but for ease of use, prefer twisted brush. However, this one will do the very most if you are a professional.
http://apps.corel.com/painterix/home/index.html

Painter Essentials III has much of the functionality of Painter IX.5, but sells for less than $100. It also supposedly has a more user friendly interface. I have not used it.
http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite?c=Product_C1&cid=1152105062012&lc=en&pagename=CorelCom%2FLayout

The program linked below is free. I have been told that it will also do this, but to be honest, I never had the patience to work with it. However, give it a try, maybe you will like it, and the price is right!
http://www.snapfiles.com/reviews/Project_Dogwaffle/dogwaffle.html

Hope this information proves helpful.