Windows 10: I want an old version of a MS PAINT file back.

I had a paint file with a lot of hard work poured into it, and turns out, the new layer feature didn't warn me about disabled layers and how they'd delete themselves, and I lose SO much work thanks to this. Is there some god-forsaken way i could bring it back no matter what?? I'm not talking about deleted files, file history/recovery, shadow copies, because nobody warned me about invisible layers. I'm just a guy who wants his art back thanks to a new feature screw-up. Can't you guys access overwritten paint files or lost layers. I want it back please.

:)

 

MS Paint not working

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



We understand the concern as you are unable to use Microsoft Paint on your PC. In order to get clarity and to assist you accordingly, please reply with the answers to the questions below:

• What is the Version and Build of Windows 10 installed on the PC? (Type
  winver in Windows search/Run command)
  
• Are you aware of any changes on the PC prior to this issue?

In this scenario, we would suggest you to check if you are able to launch Microsoft Paint from System32 folder.

1. Press Windows + E key to open
   File/Windows Explorer
   
2. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32
   
3. Double click on mspaint.exe
   
4. If you are able to launch then Pin to Taskbar and
   create a shortcut.

If the issue persists then try these steps.



Step 1: Run DISM & SFC scan

We would also suggest you to run the DISM & SFC Scan tool to check if you are able to launch MS Paint, refer this article:
System File Checker.



Step 2: Reinstall Microsoft Paint app.

1. Press Windows + I key to open
   Settings.
   
2. Click on Apps and select
   Apps & features from left pane.
   
3. Click on Optional features and select
   Microsoft Paint from the list.
   
4. Click on Uninstall. Close
   Settings and restart the PC.
   
5. Now perform step 1 and 2.
   
6. Click on Optional features and click
   Add a feature.
   
7. Check the box beside Microsoft Paint and click on
   Install.

Let us know the results. If the issue persists, we will certainly assist you further.



Aditya Roy

Microsoft Community – Moderator

 

MS Paint Recent Files

Here s a partial solution. Works for Windows 10 as well.

Paint - Delete Recent Pictures from List in Windows - Windows 7 Help Forums

This will clear it but of not disable list ie you would have to do again later etc.

 

Replacing the default MS Paint with an older version

Thanks - but I like MS Paint* (at least the old version) and other image handling programs I've tried aren't to my liking.

I'd rather not try another but I appreciate the suggestion.

* I'm strange, I know

A comprehensive set of replies as always Denis. I have replaced icons before so that isn't a problem - your second and third posts will require some study (currently away from my Win 10 machine - writing this reply on a MacBook running OS X)

Hi dalchina,

That looks quite simple and straightforward - assuming that Winaero Tweaker is free - and I think I'll try this suggestion first.

Thanks

Art