Yeah, what annoys me is that people think that the only free editing program out there is Microsoft Paint, but there is plenty of other free and more quality programs =). Of course, the free programs are definately not as advanced as the paid programs, but that's what you get T_T.
Thee first
Title: Serif PhotoPlus 6.0
Download it: Here
The first program I am going to introduce to you is Serif Photoplus 6.0. It's very much like Paint Shop Pro. And even more-- it can do animations as well! Pretty good 8). This program supports layers =D. Also, you will need to "complete the registration process" if you want to continue using your program after you download it (don't worry because most free programs require a registration [they don't take long]). This is my favorite free program =D.
Le Paint
Title: Paint.NET
Download it: HERE
Thee almighty second free program is...... Paint.NET! From what I've read from the website, it looks pretty good, similar to Adobe Photoshop CS2. It supports layers too x3. They have similar tools to the more expensive programs; I highly recommend this program. Unfortunately, you have to have Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows Server 2003 =(. Sad for me since I have Windows 2000 lawl. I''m not sure if they have a registration process, because I can't download it =P.
Gimpeh
Title: Gimp
Download it: Here
GIMP is a more well known free program ;-). It supports layers, and doesn't require any registration process xD. It looks like a great program =D, and easy to use as well.
VicMan's
Title: VCW Vicman's Photo Editor
Download it: Here (click the link on the top that says "Click here if you don't want to enter your personal information")
VicMan's is a simple program, suited for beginners. It doesn't supports layers, unfortunately. But it doesn't require any registration process. It's a lot similar to PhotoFiltre xD.
Hope this helped you! I will be making some PhotoPlus tutorials in the future =D.
~Nicolette