How can I create images with transparent backgrounds?

I needed a simple image with a transparent background. I found this Stack Overflow post that worked well for me, "How can I create transparent images in MS Paint?"

Try Paint.NET for size. I tried GimpShop before, but did not like it. Paint.NET is to MS Paint what Notepad++ is to Notepad :)

To change an image to have a transparent background:

1. Install Paint.NET
2. Download AlphaMask plugin
3. Extract AlphaMask.dll to \Paint.NET\Effects (note you will likely need to unblock the file)
4. Open Paint.NET
5. Open your file
6. Copy the content you want to make have a transparent background (ctrl+a, ctrl+c to select all and copy)
7. Effects Menu > Alpha Mask...
8. check Invert Mask, check Mix Alpha, leave checked Paste from Clipboard
9. Click OK
10. File Menu > Save as, save as type PNG (*.png)
11. Defaults are fine, OK one last time

These are the steps I took to create a 16x16 sized icon.

I found a larger example with a white background.

I used snipping tool to get a semi-square size from it

I used this to convert it to a 16x16 ico file. http://image.convertstandard.com/ToICO16x16.aspx

I renamed it to a png. 

I used this stack overflow post and paint.NET to make the background transparent.