transparency question

[KongDriver]

I'm working on a png sprite sheet with a transparent background. Whenever I select a sprite to move it around, the "transparent" part around the sprite ends up covering opaque pixels behind it. Is there a way to change this behavior? I'd prefer to not have to use layers.

[Sarkut]

Sorry, you need to use layers for this.

Cut or copy the sprite and paste into a new layer.

You'll be able to move the sprite without

the transparent part overwriting the opaque

pixels on the layer below.

Edited June 8, 2010 by Sarkut

[KongDriver]

Thanks for the response, Sarkut. I've just started using Paint.NET for my pixel art recently, since I've been unimpressed with the Windows 7 version of MS Paint. It seems strange to me that transparent areas would cover up opaque pixels. Anyone know why Paint.NET is designed this way? Photoshop, for example, does not have this issue. Shouldn't opaque pixels always "show through" transparency?

[Sarkut]

When you move a selection, whatever is in the selection replaces what was there previously.

So, with that in mind, there are no opaque pixels anymore to show through.

In some cases, transferring the transparency, whether full or partial is what is wanted.

The status quo allows that.

Using a new layer allows the alpha to not overwrite.

This way, everyone can have what they want.

Edited June 8, 2010 by Sarkut

[pdnnoob]

I know Sarkut already answered the question and more, but I just wanted to make a comment...

Layers are not difficult. Use them because they are one of the most useful tools any good photo editing program has to offer. You say you prefer not to use them, I say you should get over it and use them a whole lot (just name your layers to keep them tidy)