AKVIS has introduced a new version of one of its photo effects apps, Sketch 10. The software converts photos into simulated watercolors and pencil drawings. The upgrade provides a new effects tool called Stroke Direction, which offers control over hatch direction and enhances realism. Three new presets have also been added, along with support for Snow Leopard and Windows 7.

Other changes include a new parameter in the Edge tab labeled Edge Strength, and plug-in compatibility with Photoshop Elements 8 and the 64-bit version of Photoshop CS4. The Preview window now displays both the effects of a canvas and how a photo will look as a drawing.

A new installer requires users to uninstall older software before downloading new code. Sketch 10 supports Mac OS X 10.4 or later, and is a free upgrade for v9.x users. Upgrades from older versions are priced at $40, and new users can buy the app for $70.