How to Lock Dockable Tabs in GIMP

Accidentally moving panels, dialogs, and toolbars in GIMP is a common frustration that disrupts your workflow. This guide explains how to secure your workspace layout by locking dockable tabs in place, preventing them from being dragged, detached, or repositioned by mistake.

Step-by-Step Guide to Locking a Tab

GIMP allows you to lock each tab individually to its current dock. Follow these steps to secure any panel:

  1. Locate the Tab: Open GIMP and find the dockable dialog you want to lock (such as Layers, Tool Options, or Brushes).
  2. Open the Tab Menu: Click the small arrow icon (Configure this tab) located in the upper-right corner of the tab bar, or simply right-click directly on the tab's name or icon.
  3. Select "Lock Tab to Dock": In the drop-down menu, click Lock Tab to Dock.

Once selected, a checkmark will appear next to this option. The tab can no longer be dragged away, grouped into another window, or detached from its container.

How to Unlock a Tab

If you need to reorganize your workspace later, you can reverse the lock just as easily:

  1. Right-click the tab name or click the tab configuration arrow in the upper-right corner.
  2. Click Lock Tab to Dock to uncheck the option.
  3. Drag the tab to your desired position within your workspace.

Protecting Your Entire Workspace

Because GIMP locks tabs on an individual basis, you should repeat the locking process for every critical panel in your setup, including Layers, Channels, Paths, and Tool Options.

To ensure your layout remains intact across sessions, go to Edit > Preferences > Interface > Window Management, and click Save Window Positions Now. Unchecking Save window positions on exit will also ensure that any unintended changes made during a session are discarded the next time you launch the application.