I would have loved to have entered the Avatar designing for Summer Event but didnt because I dont have a printer/Copier so even I drew by hand I could not upload. I could take a photo and upload but normally dont use internet on my phone (weird I know)

Also looking through past years events some games seem to use layers like in Gimp. ( I had a version years ago that I played with dont have that Pc now) I can download Gimp for free I know they used to have free lessons on it alll be it complicated.

I couldnt see this answered anywhere else. Thought it might be helpful for others.

Since you pinged me I'll give you my experience, but I'm not much help on this one.

I know for the avi contests a lot of people use drawing programs, but it isn't required. I haven't entered any of the avi contests (my drawing skills are lacking). I also have never done the digital contests for the easter egg/pumpkin carving/gingerbread house. I tend to prefer the traditional ones.

I have a printer with a scanner, so that is how I've done the few pet trait contests I have entered.

Thanks Faeyla appreciate your response. :)

You can use any program where you can edit the base image with brushes.
However for contests/games like Beach stickers, you would need a program that supports psd files.

So that would include Gimp right?

You don't necessarily need to download an application for beach stickers, Photopea is a web app that can open .psd files. It offers most of the features of Photoshop.

Thanks Ender I will check it out. :)