Customize Grouped Tool Order in GIMP

This guide explains how to change the sequence of tools nested within tool groups in GIMP. By default, GIMP clusters related tools together into single icons to save space, but you can easily reorganize their internal order, designate a new primary tool for the group, or move tools between groups directly through the program's preferences.

Step 1: Open the Toolbox Preferences

  1. Launch GIMP.
  2. In the top menu, navigate to Edit > Preferences (on macOS, go to GIMP > Preferences).
  3. In the left-hand sidebar of the Preferences window, expand the Interface section if it is collapsed.
  4. Click on Toolbox.

Step 2: Navigate the Tool Hierarchy

In the right pane, you will see a structured list of all tools and tool groups currently present in your interface. Groups are indicated by expand/collapse arrows next to folder-like entries, and individual tools are listed inside them.

  1. Locate the tool group you want to modify.
  2. Click the arrow icon next to the group to expand it and reveal all the tools nested inside.

Step 3: Rearrange the Tools

The order of tools from top to bottom in this list dictates their order inside the flyout menu in your toolbox. The tool placed at the very top of a group also serves as the default visible icon in the main toolbar.

To change the order:

  • Drag and Drop: Click and hold a tool, then drag it up or down to place it in your desired position within the group.
  • Arrow Buttons: Click on a specific tool to highlight it, then click the Raise tool (up arrow) or Lower tool (down arrow) buttons located beneath the tool list to move it one step at a time.

Step 4: Apply Your Changes

Once the tools are arranged in your preferred order:

  1. Click the OK button at the bottom right of the Preferences window to save your changes.
  2. Return to your workspace. Hover over or long-click the modified tool group icon to verify that the tools now appear in your customized sequence.

If you ever want to revert to the standard layout, return to Preferences > Interface > Toolbox and click the Reset button at the bottom of the window.