i want to start developing some stuff
 

hey everyone,

this is a random thread but i couldn't find anything on the web too easily. and i figured you guys would know the best. i have been using linux for 2 years now...and i am tired of just customizing my desktop look all the time. i want to start developing some stuff, whether it be graphically like a theme or icon set, and even as much as a new little program that i can use. i am using gnome right now with the xfce windowm manager, so i would like to learn how to develop something in those two areas. can anyone direct me in what to look at or somewhere to get started?

thanks

You might want to take up programming. It's fun and rewarding (and it can prove a good source of income as well).

The Gnome Developers' site has a lot of good content regarding programming Gnome, including the programming guidelines, but if you are new to programming it might be a tad steep. Creating your own themes - like GTK themes (application interface themes in Gnome) - is a lot easier to get started with. Check out art.gnome.org for some examples.

And if you want to get started with a good programming language to get real stuff done (rather than moving around bits in memory...), look into Python. There are several good free books on getting started with Python programming, most notably Dive into Python and my choice, A byte of Python.


Håkan

Python + (PyGTK + Glade) = Easy GUI apps

Python has a syntax that can take a little getting used to but once you've got it it's not too hard and there are modules for Python to do anything. It's a good first step, good enough that I don't really want to leave it ;)

thanks to you both guys. this really helps. i will definately get back to you two if i have any questions. and if you have any other ideas or suggestions feel free to post them. thanks again