Paint Programs
The options and availibility of paint programs is getting bigger. There's a lot more out there now that I know about, then what I used to know about. Some good free ones now, too. I think in this list you should be able to find something that's right for you. And like any new program, to get the most out of it, you have to know it, love it, take it out to dinner.... :)

 

Download.com - The original favorite database of any downloadable programs, freeware and shareware. Here, you will want to go to Multimedia and design, and then to "Image Editing" to find what you need. Who knows? You may even find something new in there that you may want for something else!

Jasc Software - Paint shop Pro is one of the reigning titans of the skinning world. This program has a wide fan base and a lot of useful functions, like smudging, cloning, etc.

Adobe - Adobe Photo-Shop is another one of the reigning titans. Everyone has their favorites. I have this program, and I like it, and am finally getting it to do what I want.

Corel - I have Corel Photo-Paint, though my version is more around 7 instead of 9. The price is high, but it has a lot of bells and whistles. It's has some features that Adobe doesn't have.

Pixia - It's free! I've never used it, but it has the basic functions you need.

Serif Photo-Plus5 - Also free! Has plug-ins as well for the download.

Serif - Has more, different affordable programs as well.