"New"file replacing "open" file?

[Patcfish]

GIMP Version: 2.10.22
Operating System: Windows
GIMP Experience: Basic Level

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I use Gimp to create my scroll saw patterns for cutting. I have never had problems before so I don't know if I hit a button or changed some setting accidentally or what. But now from the file tab I "open" the image(picture), from my desktop, I will be editing to cut. I then go back to file tab to "new" to start my design. Problem is this "new" replaces the open image(picture) and I lose the picture and now only have a white blank canvas to work with. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks so much!!!!

[Tas_mania]

If the 'Open' file is small in size Gimp will open a new tab at that size. You can also reset all Preferences to default from File > Preferences.

[sallyanne]

If you already have a picture open in gimp and open another image not as a layer it will open in a new tab. It will by default open up as the image showing but you can go back to the tab that your previous picture is in. If however you open a file and it is smaller or larger it will open above the previous image obscuring the original picture