Show HN: Free alternative to graphics design giants
Scissor is a free, browser-based vector and pixel graphics editor built with Rust and WebAssembly that runs entirely locally on user devices without requiring an account.
summary is enough A quick look at the landing page and testing the web tool gives you everything you need to know without deep-diving into the thread.
summary
Scissor is a new browser-based vector and pixel graphics editor designed as a free, privacy-focused alternative to expensive desktop software. Built with Rust and compiled to WebAssembly, it operates entirely on the client side with no server uploads or mandatory accounts, functioning as an installable Progressive Web App. The creator actively engages with the community to address UX feedback, mobile responsiveness, and bug reports. While vector-first, it also supports raster editing and aims to provide deep desktop-class functionality for zero cost.
key points
- Built using Rust and WebAssembly, delivering native-like performance entirely within the browser.
- Operates locally as a Progressive Web App with zero server uploads, ensuring complete user privacy.
- Combines deep vector tools like Bézier paths and live shapes with raster editing capabilities.
who should read it
Designers, developers, and users seeking a free, privacy-friendly alternative to subscription design software.
discussion warm
consensus
Commenters are heavily impressed by the application's snappy performance and local-first architecture, praising the Rust and WebAssembly stack. The creator actively responds to user feedback, fixes bugs quickly, and discusses roadmap items.
pushback
A few users pointed out minor UI friction points, such as blocked text selection and missing direct equivalents to certain mainstream editor features.
It's a PWA and you can install it like a Native app, and as it's writen in Rust and compiled to WebAssembly it's almost as fast as a native app (and it does not send any user data to anywhere all the artwork stuff are fully local; the only thing that it send to the backend is no of users for analytics and users can opt-out in the setting).
haven't thought about it to be hoest, but now that we have AI I might be able to transalte it to Swift to make some MacOS version, or create a desktop app for Linux/... using Tauri
The creator explains the underlying architecture, detailing how it leverages Rust, WASM, and PWA capabilities while keeping all artwork strictly local.
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