Tutorials & Design...

Merry Christmas Tree

2008-11-25T08:57:00.000-08:00

Learn how to create your own Christmas tree wallpaper with these tutorial.

For the beginning create a new file (File>New) of 1280x1024 px and 72 dpi. The background should be painted with black color, applying the Paint Bucket Tool (G)

Paint Bucket Tool (G). The Paint Bucket tool fills adjacent pixels that are similar in color value to the pixels you click.'); return false">Paint Bucket Tool (G).

Using the Pen Tool (P)

Pen Tool (P). allows you to make lines that change colour and shapes on the project.'); return false">Pen Tool (P), try to get a fir tree’s image out of a line.

Select the next Blending Options by making a mouse click on the layer on the layers’ palette.

Next try to rasterize this layer. Then try to create a new layer near the previous one and mark them both out (press Ctrl + click on the layer), put the layers together (Ctrl+E). The unnecessary elements should be erased with the Eraser Tool (E)

Eraser Tool (E). The Eraser tool changes pixels in the image as you drag through them. If you\'re working in the background or in a layer with transparency locked, the pixels change to the background color; otherwise, the pixels are erased to transparency. You can also use the eraser to return the affected area to a state selected in the History palette.'); return false">Eraser Tool (E). You’ll get the next thing.

Select now the Burn Tool (O) to dark out several fragments of this line, giving it also some volume.

Make a copy of this layer (Ctrl+J).

Next we’ll erase the dark line on the intersected lines, getting the effect of this line being situated behind the other.

Make several copies of the lines and displace them a little.

Next select the Brush Tool (B)

Brush Tool (B). The brush tool is used for making good backgrounds and also on new layers they have different types so that you get a different effect with every brush you use.'); return false">Brush Tool (B) out of the next table:

Create a new layer on which must be pictured a kind of smoke line, having the color #EDFE87 and the Opacity of 10%.

Create a new layer and represent with the Rectangular Marquee Tool (M)

Rectangular Marquee Tool (M). The marquee tools let you select rectangles, ellipses, rounded rectangles (ImageReady), and 1-pixel rows and columns. By default, a selection border is dragged from its corner.'); return false">Rectangular Marquee Tool (M) a rectangle figure, colored with #4BCE2A

Change on this layer the Blending Mode with that one from below:

Our fir tree became more saturate.

Make a copy of the layer containing the smoke and situate it on the very top of the layers.

Now select the Brush mode (B) and its parameters on the top panel:

Set everything the same way demonstrated below:

Create a new layer and represent several illuminated spots with the same color we’ve pictured the smoke. Set for this layer the Blending mode – Overlay.

Repeat the same operation on a new layer again, changing this time the Blending mode on Normal and choosing a smaller size for the brush.

Repeat once again this operation, choosing even smaller brush than the previous time. Next situate on our picture the star selected out of the Custom Shape Tool (U)

Custom Shape Tool (U). You use the shape tools to draw lines, rectangles, rounded rectangles, and ellipses in an image. In Photoshop, you can also draw polygons and create custom shape libraries to reuse and share custom shapes.
'); return false">Custom Shape Tool (U), named 5 point star. The color’s code is #F6FF9F

Select for the star the Blending Options with the next indicated parameters:

Our fir tree is finished!

Creative christmas cards

2008-11-25T08:53:00.000-08:00

Creative christmas cards - part 1

Christmas themed wallpaper from scratch. A Well explained & Easy to follow Tutorial!

Create a new file (File>New) that would have 1280x1024 px and 72 dpi.

Now we shall use the Rectangle Tool (U) to draw the background of the picture to be.

Set the next parameters for the made layer by making a mouse click on this layer on the layers’ palette.
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Next we’ll represent the snow hills, applying the Pen Tool (P)

Pen Tool (P). allows you to make lines that change colour and shapes on the project.'); return false">Pen Tool (P) and Convert Point Tool for the corrections on the made elements.

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Inner Glow

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Next choose the Custom Shape Tool (U)

Custom Shape Tool (U). You use the shape tools to draw lines, rectangles, rounded rectangles, and ellipses in an image. In Photoshop, you can also draw polygons and create custom shape libraries to reuse and share custom shapes.
'); return false">Custom Shape Tool (U) and pick up a fir tree’s figure, having the color #003274

Make seven copies of the tree’s silhouette and select the Free Transform option to change the copies’ sizes, placing them the same way demonstrated below:

Using the Custom Shape Tool (U), let’s represent a lot of snowflakes, having different sizes:

Continue representing the snow hills, selecting the same Pen Tool (P) and Convert Point Tool, having the color #A7FEF6

Creative christmas cards - part 2

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Inner Glow

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Inner Glow

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

On a new layer (Create new layer) we’ll apply the standard Brush Tool (B)

Brush Tool (B). The brush tool is used for making good backgrounds and also on new layers they have different types so that you get a different effect with every brush you use.'); return false">Brush Tool (B) with the Opacity of 20% to represent the shadows on the snow hill.

Next we’ll apply the Ellipse Tool (U)

Ellipse Tool (U). Use the ellipse tool to draw ovals and circles. To draw a circle, hold down the Shift key while dragging. Double-click the ellipse tool to open the Color inspector.'); return false">Ellipse Tool (U) and represent a snow ball reserved for a snowman.

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Inner Glow

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Make two copies of the layer containing the snow ball and select the Free Transform option to minimize the copies’ sizes, placing them as it is represented next image:

Applying the Ellipse Tool (U), it’s possible to draw the buttons on the snowman.

Creative christmas cards - part 3

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Drop Shadow

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Blending Options>Stroke

Gradient’s parameters:

Make two copies of the layer containing the button and choose Free Transform option to change the copies’ sizes, placing them the way demonstrated next picture:

Using the previous tool, it’s possible to draw next the snow man’s nose:

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Inner Shadow

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Create a new layer and use on it a standard brush (Brush Tool (B)

Brush Tool (B). The brush tool is used for making good backgrounds and also on new layers they have different types so that you get a different effect with every brush you use.'); return false">Brush Tool (B)) to draw the eyes and the mouth, belonging to the same snowman. The elements’ color is black.

Using the Line Tool (U)

Line Tool (U). The line tool is used to draw straight lines on the canvas. It is pretty intuitive, you simply choose the line tool from the toolbox, click once on the canvas to specify the beginning point of your line and then drag the mouse to define the line extending from the starting point.'); return false">Line Tool (U), it’s time to picture a twig that will represent the snow man’s arm. The color in this case is black too.

Put together all the layers composing the twig into a single layer. In this case we’ll press Ctrl button, mark out the twig’s layers and press then Ctrl+E. Next we’ll make a copy of the new layer that we got and apply Free Transform option to turn over the copy, make the copy smaller and put it on the picture the same way shown below:

The picture is finished!

Glossy RSS icon

2008-11-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

Glossy RSS icon - part 1

In this tutorial we are going to create a colorful RSS icon for your blog.

It's necessary for the beginning to create a new file (File>New) of 512x512px and 72 dpi. Select the Ellipse Tool (U)

Ellipse Tool (U). Use the ellipse tool to draw ovals and circles. To draw a circle, hold down the Shift key while dragging. Double-click the ellipse tool to open the Color inspector.'); return false">Ellipse Tool (U) and try to make an ellipse like the next one:

Fill 0% on the layer:

Select Blending Options>Gradient Overlay (making a mouse click on the processed layer on the layers' palette) setting the next demands as below:

This element we should get. It'll represent the shadow of the icon:

. Select the same tool to draw now a circle, colored with #F36523

Select Blending Options>Inner Shadow and set the next parameters for the last layer:

Blending Options>Stroke

Fill 0% for the layer. We should get the next result. It'll represent the basis of the icon

Next we shall represent one more circle:

Choose the next selection for the layer: Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient Editor:

Now we need to draw another circle, but a circle that needs to be corrected with Direct Selection Tool (A), as it is shown below:

Glossy RSS icon - part 2

Select Blending Options>Inner Glow

Fill 0% on the layer. This way we've got several highlights on the icon:

Let's represent one more circle colored with #F36523

Mark out the last made circle, press Alt button and cut out a half – moon element:

Set the next parameters:

We'll get this way a half – shadow:

Now we need to select the Ellipse Tool (U)

Ellipse Tool (U). Use the ellipse tool to draw ovals and circles. To draw a circle, hold down the Shift key while dragging. Double-click the ellipse tool to open the Color inspector.'); return false">Ellipse Tool (U) and represent two circles of different sizes. The color's code is #FEDB8A

Next we shall use the Rounded Rectangle Tool (U)

Rounded Rectangle Tool (U). To reshape the corners of a rounded rectangle, select the rounded rectangle tool and select the rectangle. Extra selection handles appear inside the rectangle corners. Dragging an inside handle toward the center of the rectangle to make it more rounded; drag it toward the outside of the rectangle to make it less rounded.'); return false">Rounded Rectangle Tool (U) (radius of 30 px) and represent a bended rounded line.
1. Represent the line
2. Insert the points of the bend, applying the Add Anchior Point Tool, bending the element with Direct Selection Tool (A) and Convert Point Tool.

Place the new element as below:

Apply for the new layer Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient Editor:

We'll get the next result!

Next we shall draw one more element, but a bigger one, having the icon finally finished!

3D-Photo effect

2008-11-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

In this tutorial I will try to explain how to create a
3D effect from a 2D-image

1. This is the original image

2. Start with creating the "Photo-frame" by drawing a selection with the Polygonal Lasso Tool (L). Save the selection as "frame"

3. Now, mask the details that is outside the frame you created in step 2.
When you're done, copy the masked objects and paste it into a new layer

4. Creating the Photo frame
Select the first layer with the original image and Load the "frame selection" that you saved in step 2. Select inverse and hit Delete. Select inverse again and go to
Select > Modify> Contract selection by 15 pixels. Save that selection as Innerframe.

Now, load the selection "frame" and then load the selection "innerframe" and chose subtract from selection, an d it will look something like this.

5. Add a new Layer and fill it with a gradient white to light grey. White top left to light grey bottom right.

6. Creating a shadow.
Add a new layer below the "frame layer", load the selection "frame" and fill it with black. Deselect and apply the gaussian blur filter with amount 5.

7. Now go to edit > transform > skew and drag it down a little bit on the right side.

8. Set the opacity to about 60%

9. Now, fill the bottom layer with any color you like and you're done!

3D Blocks Background Tutorial

2008-11-25T08:45:00.000-08:00

Start a new document by pressing CTRL + N. I used 500 X 500 (you can make it any size), than go to Filter -> Render -> Clouds.

Now go to Filter -> Pixelate -> Mezzotint and use the following setttings.

After that, go to Filter -> Blur -> Radial Blur and apply these settings.

Once that's completed, go to Filter -> Stylize -> Extrude and use these settings.

Lastly, go to Hue/Saturation by pressing CTRL + U and use the following settings, you can play around with these if you want other colors.

This is how your finished background should look.

Pattern Background

2008-11-25T08:30:00.000-08:00

This nifty tutorial will teach you how to make repeating pattern-backgrounds. This tutorial will use standard shapes only!

Learn how to make a pattern background!

Step 1 First of all, let me tell you that for this tutorial, you don't need fancy shapes, because Photoshop allready has a large variety of shapes like the ones below:
Step 2 Create shape with some objects.
Your shape doesn't HAVE to look like mine, but it has to "kinda" fill the square space;
Step 3 Once done, merge all the shapes together and downscale it using CTRL+T;
Step 4 Time to turn on the GRID with CTRL+'
Once the grid is on, you must center your shape just by dragging it to the center. The grid will automatically center it;
Step 5 Go to Edit>Preferences>Grid.. etc... and choose the options that will devide your document in 4(!!!) pieces. I choose these options;
Step 6 Then select (WITH THE GRID ON) the lower-right corner and place it in the upper-left corner;
Step 7 Do the same opposite-pasting with all corners;
Step 8 Then select all corners and merge them together.
The downscale them and place them in the middle;
Step 9 Make a selection around it;
Step 10 With the selection on, go to Image>Crop;
Step 11 Then save it as a pattern by going to Edit>Define Pattern and then later go to Edit>Fill and fill the layer with your new pattern and use it whereever you like!

Author : MICK MOOLHUIJSEN

Falling Matrix Code Effect

2008-11-03T06:05:00.000-08:00

First open NEW document.I used 400 x 200, but u can use size what you want, and make background color to BLACK.
Now go to Filter>Texture>Grain.

Set intensity to 100, Contrast to 100, and Grain type to Vertical.

Afterwards you should have something like the following

Next we want the grains to glow like the matrix, we accomplish this by using Filter>Artistic>Neon Glow

Glow size -5
Brightness to 25
and Color to GREEN

Your final result should be something like this

Valentine's Ecard

2008-11-03T05:39:00.000-08:00

Starting in new file 600 x 400 px ( or larger )

Fill the background with this gradient

Applied Texturizer ( Filter >> Texture >> Texturizer )

Next, Filter >> Render >> Lighting Effects

Duplicate layer ( Ctrl + J )

Add Stroke effects on new layer

we have

Type your favorite text

( I was used this font )

Layer Style on text

Step Result !

Open ResourceBlock, load my brush

Use this on "Layer 1" 20 % opacity

Continue with this brushes, 100 % opacity ( on new layer of you want )

Merge all layer contain Brushes and Red background layer ( if it doesn't )

Duplicate this layer ( Ctrl + J )

Gaussian Blur with 10 px radius

Change blending mode = Soft Light

Type 14.2 text

with Layer style

mode = Overlay

opacity = 23%

Some detail, and here we are, your can add your lover name here

Happy challenging Lunar new year

2008-11-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Begin with new blank file ( 600 x 400 px )

Use this gradient

To fill the background, follow the direction..

Create new layer, blending mode = "Multiply", 60% opacity

Gradient : Black to Transparent

Direction : follow an arrow ..

Type "2008"

Font: Pixochrome ( dafont.com )

Size : 137 pt

Duplicate layer "2008", fill Black

Go to Filter >> Blur >> Motion Blur

Angle : -45 degree

Distance : 16 px

Bring this layer to backward

my result !!

Pick Soft Eraser Tool ( Eraser with hardness = 0% )

Clear these areas..

Add layer style for "white-2008" layer

Result !!! Look impressive

Type "challenge" text

Font : Futura

Stand on background layer, draw a small rectangle selection.

Bring it to new layer ( Ctrl + J )

Blending mode = "Multiply"

add text ..

Link all text layer, rotate it as I did

One more pattern fill layer ..

Result ..

Lens Flare ....

applying level on this layer ..

and here ... the final result !!!

Grid Background

2008-11-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

1. Create new file size 800 x 600, fill with black

2. Go to Filter >> Render >> Clouds

3. Go to Filter >> Render >> Difference Clouds, repeat 2-3 times

4. Go to Filter >> Pixelate >> Mosaic..., 18 square

5. Go to Filter >> Blur >> Radial Blur , Amount = 30, Method = Zoom,
Quality = Good

6. Go to Filter >> Brush Strokes >> Angled Strokes...

7. Go to Filter >> Stylize >> Find Edges

8. Press Ctrl + I ( Inverse )

9. Image >> Adjustment >> Hue/Saturation .... Hue = 106, Saturation =
100, Lightness = -2 , Colorize

10. Duplicate layer, mode Screen , use Move Tool drag a little to the right, then use Soft Eraser to delete the edge

11. Color is not so impressive because of low Contrast. Press Ctrl +
M to open Curve, pull the line to curve it up a little.

12. Create a new layer mode Overlay, use Brush with black and white to draw some details.

13. Finish !!!

Glassy Shield

2008-11-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

Glassy Shield.

Step 1:

Let's start out by creating a new file. I used a 300x300 pixels canvas set at 72dpi, and I filled my background with a white color. Now select the Horizontal Type Tool and set the font family to Webdings, regular, 200 pt, smooth and #00CCFF color shade. In a new text layer type 'd' which should turn into a shield shape.

Step 2:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Satin, Gradient Overlay and Stroke blending options to your shield shape text layer.

Step 3:

With all that blending option added to your shield shape layer, it should now look like this:

Step 4:

Now change the font size of your Horizontal Type Tool to 180 pt and set the font color to black color shade. In a new text layer type 'd' again to get the shield design, position it on the center of your current shield design.

Step 5:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Inner Glow, Satin, Gradient Overlay and Stroke blending options to your white text layer. Then set the layers blending mode to Lighten.

Step 6:

With all that blending option added to your second black shield layer, it should now look like this:

Step 7:

Duplicate your smaller black shield layer from step four then delete the current layer styles attached.

Step 8:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Outer Glow, Gradient Overlay and Stroke blending options to your second black shield layer.

Results:

Glassy Shield.

Concept Glassy Logo

2008-11-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Step 1:

Let's start out by creating a new file. I used a 700x200 pixels canvas set at 72dpi, and I filled my background with a white color. Now create a new layer set and name it 'Concept Glassy Logo'.

In a new layer draw a circle with 91×91 px dimensions and #734FB0 color shade.

Step 2:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Inner Shadow, Inner Glow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your purple circle layer. Then set the layers opacity level to 45%.

Step 3:

Create a new layer and draw a black circle with 81×81 px dimensions.

Step 4:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your black circle layer. Then set the layers blending mode to Lighten.

Step 5:

Duplicate your 'Text Design' layer set and merge it down through Layer > Merge Layer Set. The duplicated layer set should turn into a layer. Now go to Filter > Blur > Guassian Blur and apply a 4.0 pixels radius guassian blur.

Step 6:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your black ellipse layer. Then set the layers blending mode to Lighten.

Step 7:

Now in a new layer draw a smaller black circle on the center of your glassy logo. Then set the layers blending mode to Overlay.

Step 8:

Create a new layer and draw a black circle with 60×60 px dimensions on the center of the glassy logo design.

Step 9:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Outer Glow and Satin blending options to your black circle layer from last step. Then set the layers blending mode to Screen.

Step 10:

Select the Horizontal Type Tool and set the font family to Arial Black, regular, 48 pt, black color shade. In a new text layer type your website name next to the logo.

Step 11:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Inner Shadow, Satin and Gradient Overlay blending options to your text layer.

Results:

Unique Color Fade Text Effect.

Aqua Text

2008-11-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

Step 1: Create a new document, size is not a matter. Press D to reset your colors. Use the Horizontal Type Tool (T) with a size of 300pt and type anything you like. You should use the Move Tool (V) to center your text

Step 2: Select your text by holding down Ctrl and left click on your text layer

Step 3: Go to Filter > Render > Difference Clouds. Press Ctrl-F six times to repeat this effect. After this step we will get

Step 4: Press Ctrl-D to deselect your text. Go to Filter > Artistic > Plastic Warp and use these settings:

and we get

Step 5: Press Ctrl-U to open the Hue/Saturation dialog box. Make sure to tick on the Colorize checkbox and use these settings:

Your text will be colorized like this

Step 6: We should remove the black areas in our text. The easiest way to do this is go to Image > Adjustments > Selective Color. In the drop down box, choose Blacks and use these settings:

now the black areas are removed

Step 7: Double click on your text layer (it is "strong" layer in this tutorial) to open up the Layer Style dialog box. We just need to use Drop Shadow and Bevel and Emboss effects

+ Drop Shadow:

+ Bevel and Emboss:

Finished! And here is the final result:

Stainless Steel Background

2008-10-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

Step 1

Create a blank new document at the size of 600×400. Create a new layer, name it ‘background’ and fill it with gray color [#c0c0c0]. Duplicate ‘background’ layer, name the new layer ‘steel background‘ and place it on top of ‘background‘.

Step 2

With ’steel background’ layer selected, apply Filter -> Add Noise and enter the following settings:

Amount: 14.21
Distribution: Gaussian
Monochromatic checked

Step 3

With ‘steel background‘ layer still selected, go Filter -> Blur -> Motion Blur and enter the following settings:

Angel: 0
Distance: 34 pixels

Right click ‘steel background‘, select Blending Options and enter the following settings for Gradient Overlay - Gradient Editor:

Color Stop 1

Color: #000000
Opacity: 50%
Location: 0%

Color Stop 2

Color: #ffffff
Location: 50%

Color Stop 3

Color: #000000
Opacity: 50%
Location: 0%

Metal Text

Step 4

Your stainless steel background is basically done, we’ll continue from there to insert a metal text that should look matching. Use the Text Tool, write something in the middle, preferably with think fat font (I’m using Myriad Pro Bold here). Right click (or double click) the text layer to launch the Blending Options dialog.

Drop Shadow

Opacity: 38%
Distance: 1px
Spread: 1%
Size: 2px

Bevel and Emboss

Depth: 100%
Size: 0px
Soften: 0px
Highlight Opacity: 42%
Shadow Opacity: 32%

Gradient Overlay, Gradient Editor
Color Stop 1
- Color: #3f3f3f
- Location: 0%
Color Stop 2
- Color: #a1a1a1
- Location: 100%

Your text should look something similar to the below.

Step 5

Here’s something you need to follow tightly. Hold Control key (Mac: Command key) and left click on the text layer to highlight it’s outline. Make sure the outline is still there, select ‘steel background‘ layer, and hit Control + J (Mac: Command + J)

By doing this, you are duplicating the steel background in the shape of your text. Rename the layer to ‘text background‘ and move it to the top.

Step 6

Change ‘text background‘ to Color Burn, bring it’s Opacity down to 67%.

Your final output should look something similar to the image below.

Download .PSD file.

Design Business Forms

2008-10-31T10:54:00.000-07:00

Start working with creation of a new file (File>New) that has 1024x768 px and 72 dpi.

Take next the Rectangle Tool (U) to represent the background of the picture we want to have at the end of our work.

Select the next shown parameters by making a mouse click on the layer we work with on the layers’ panel:
Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Select after that Custom Shape Tool (U)

Custom Shape Tool (U). You use the shape tools to draw lines, rectangles, rounded rectangles, and ellipses in an image. In Photoshop, you can also draw polygons and create custom shape libraries to reuse and share custom shapes.
'); return false">Custom Shape Tool (U) to represent a circle frame which shape may be changed with the Convert Point Tool, getting the same result as the picture from below shows it:

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Inner Shadow

Blending Options>Bevel and Emboss

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Make a copy of the last made layer and choose again the same tool, Convert Point Tool, to make the corresponding corrections on the copy’s layer to get the result from below:

The layer’s parameters: Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Select now the Pen Tool (P)

Pen Tool (P). allows you to make lines that change colour and shapes on the project.'); return false">Pen Tool (P) to represent a flare on the picture, which shapes may be corrected again with the Convert Point Tool.

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Stroke

Using the last tools, it’s possible to draw a flare on the circle’s right side.

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Select the previous tools, Pen Tool (P) and Convert Point Tool, to dark out the top part of the circle frame.

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Select again the same instrument mentioned above to represent another flare on the top part of the frame.

The layer’s parameters: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Combine in a group all the layers composing the circle frame (press Ctrl button to mark out the corresponding layers and next we have to hold on the left mouse’s button for taking the marked layers on Create a new group option).
Next make a copy of all the layers contained in the circle’s group (press again Ctrl button to mark out the necessary layers and hold on the left mouse’s button for taking the marked layers on Create a new layer selection).
Merge Down all the layers (press Ctrl button to mark out the layers and press the combination of buttons Ctrl+E). Using Free Transform option it’s possible to change a little the new element that we got, placing it as below:

Make a copy of the earlier made group containing the blue circle. Use again the Free Transform option (Flip Vertical) to turn around the copy, making it a little smaller (by pressing SHIFT button). We should also apply different parameters for the layers.

The parameters for the first layer: Blending Options>Inner Shadow

Blending Options>Bevel and Emboss

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The parameters for the second layer: Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The third and the fourth layers should be left the way they are at the moment. The parameters for the fifth layer:
Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The sixth layer doesn’t need any change. Now, for our convenience, we shall Combine in a group all the layers composing the green circle (press Ctrl button to mark out the necessary layers and hold on the left mouse’s button when taking the marked layers on Create a new group selection).
Using the method described earlier, make a copy of the layers composing the green circle. Merge Down the copies layers and use the Free Transform option to make the changes on the copies’ sizes and their placement.

Make a copy of the made group of the green circle. Choose again the Free Transform option (Flip Horizontal) to turn over the copy, make it smaller (by pressing SHIFT button) and apply different parameters for the layers:

The parameters for the first layer: Blending Options>Inner Shadow

Blending Options>Bevel and Emboss

Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The parameters for the second layer: Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The parameters for the third layer: Blending Options>Stroke

The fourth one doesn’t need changes on its parameters: The parameters for the fifth layer: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

The parameters for the sixth layer: Fill 0%
Blending Options>Gradient Overlay

Gradient’s parameters:

Combine in a group all the layers composing the violet circle (press Ctrl button to mark out the necessary layers and then hold on the left mouse’s button to take the marked layers on Create a new group selection). Now we have to make the same operations we did before and make copies of the violet circle’s layers, put the copied layers together and use Free Transform option to make the necessary changes on their sizes and their placement on the picture.

Press again Ctrl button to mark out the layers of the circles’ reflections (it should be a single layer) and then we have to press on Ctrl + E to Merge Down in a single layer. Select also the next parameters for the new result: Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur

Press on the same layer the combination of buttons from here: Ctrl +U

Finished!

Bling Bling Text

2008-10-23T01:38:00.002-07:00

Description: This tutorial will show you in detailed step by step instruction on how to make a realistic bling bling gold and diamond text.

Start a new document. for now, we will fill the background with black, so our text will standout more and easier to work with.

Now create your text, in white.

Now apply the following layer styles to the text (Layer->Layer style): Bevel and Emboss, Gradient Overlay

Now CTRL+CLICK on your text layer to make a selection of it.
(for Photoshop CS, you need to CTRL+CLICK on the icon of layer in the layers pallete)
CLICK HERE TO VIEW

Then go to Select->Modify->Contract. and enter 5 pixels.
DO NOT DESELECT YET!

Now create a NEW LAYER, and fill it with WHITE.
Then go to Filter->Noise->Add Noise, for amount, set: 40%, Distribution: Gaussian, and monochromatic checked. after that, press CTRL+F twice to reapply the filter. DO NOT DESELECT YET!

Now go to Filter->Noise->Dust & Scratches. Radius: 1, Threshold: 130
(Note, you will need to play with the threshold setting, you may not want to use the same setting as mine).

Then go to: Filter->Stylize->Emboss: Height: 3, Amount: 130%

This is too dark now, so lets brighten it up again: go to: Image->Adjustments->Brightness/Contrast:
Move the brightness slider over to about: +70, and the contrast to about -20.

Now you can press CTRL+D to deselect.

Now apply the following layer styles to this top (noise) layer.

Bevel and Emboss, Inner Shadow.

To add some shines to it, CREATE A NEW LAYER, select the brush tool, set to 3px hard brush,and draw a X on the new layer, in WHITE, then, set your brush size to 27px SOFT EDGE brush, and stamp a circle in the middle of the X.

See below.

Now just get the eraser with a SOFT Edge brush, and erase out the the ends of the X (cross) to make a fade effect. Now just duplicate that star and put it on your text.

This one is simply a different gradient (step 2) applied to the original text layer.

This effect is best created at a larger size then reduce it in the end to give a more detailed look. Select all (CTRL+A), and copy merged (CTRL+SHIFT+C), then paste (CTRL+P) , then do a CTRL+T to transform, and resize it. you MUST do the above step to resize, if you simply resize the text, it will NOT work because all your layer styles will now readjust itself for the new size.

So, heres my final.

The font used for this tutorial is called "Frankenstein"> Download here

DOWNLOAD MY PSD FILE

Exploding Planet 2

2008-10-23T01:38:00.001-07:00

Description: Here is another tutorial that shows you how to create an exploding planet, a different approach to the previous tutorial.

With this tutorial, we will be working photos of dried cracked mud, so go to google images and search for "dried mud". It works best on pictures with birds eye view (direct view from top) so we can see the cracks. Alternatively, you can use any of the images below. (Click to get larger size). Please note that the steps may differ if your image is significantly different to the one im using in this tutorial, so experiment :)

I'll be working on the 2nd image. Base on that image, I start a new document 640x480.

Now open the mud image up, on the dirt image, do a CTRL+A to select all, then go to the new document you just created and press CTRL+V to paste the image.

The cracks are dark, so we'll invert the image so it becomes white, this will give it a better explosion effect. so go to Image->Adjustment->Invert (or press CTRL+I).

Now use the eliptical marquee tool and make a large round selection on the image. Hold SHIFT while you create the selection to make a perfect round circle.

Click to view larger image

Now go to Select->Inverse,
Then hit Delete so you are left with a circle from the mud image. DO NOT DESELECT YET.

Click to view larger image

Now, while you still got your selection, go to SELECT->INVERSE again to select the shape.

Now go to Filter->Distort->Spherize. Set amount to 100%. Then do it again, this time, 50%. You can now deselect.

Now, lets fill the background layer (the layer underneath the mud layer) with black.

Then go to Layer->Flatten Image

Now go to Filter->Sharpen->unsharp Mask.
Amount: 500%. Radius: 1.7px. Threshold: 122 levels

- Go to Filter->Distort->Polar Co-ordinates.
Options: Polar to Rectangular. VIEW

Go to: Image->Rotate Canvas->90CW. VIEW

Apply: Filter->Stylize->Wind
Method: Wind. Direction: From the right. Hit CTRL+F to reapply. VIEW

Go to: Image->Rotate Canvas->90CCW. VIEW

Finally, apply Filter->Distort->Polar Coordinates.
Options: Rectangular to Polar.

There you go, now all you do is just play around with colors, by either using Image->Hue and Saturation, or Image->Color Balance.
I use color balance in the image below.

This tutorial will work for basically and image with textures such as cracks. Here are a few variations.
Before -----> After.

Glossy Orb Button

2008-10-23T01:24:00.001-07:00

Description: In this tutorial, we will create a shiny orb button which then can be used for things like logos and interface designs.

	Start a new document about 250x250 pixels, then select your "elipse tool" shape in your toolbar and draw a perfect round circle shape. HINT: Hold down SHIFT+while drawing your shape to get a perfect circle shape.
	Now apply the following layer styles to this shape. (Layer->Layer Style...) -> Gradient Overlay -> Bevel and Emboss
	Now, select your circle shape tool again, and draw another perfect circle shape on top of the previous shape, this time, slightly smaller, and center it on top of the bottom layer. See screenshot.
	Now, apply these layer styles to the top layer (Layer->Layer Style...) and you should have something similar to mine. -> Gradient Overlay -> Inner Shadow ->Stroke
	- Now create a new layer above the other 2 shapes - Use the Elliptical marquee tool to make a selection like in my example. (FRAME 1) - Then move your cursor to the layers pallete placing it just above the top shape's layer hold down CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+CLICK on that layer. Your selection will convert to another selection like in FRAME 2. Fill this layer in with white, then press CTRL+D to deselect.
	Set the layer to SOFT LIGHT, and set it's opacity to 80% Then use the eraser tool with a soft edge (size around 60px) and erase out the bottom portion of that layer.
You can add a hue & saturation layer above all the layers to adjust the color of this orb. To add a hue & saturation layer, click on this icon on the bottom of the layer's pallete. Here are some in different colors DOWNLOAD PSD FILE

Snow on Text

2008-10-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

Description: This tutorial teaches you how to create nice looking snow effect on your text, you can use the effect on christmas themed graphics.

	To start this tutorial, create a new document and fill the background with a dark color, this is so we can see the snow better, we can change the background color at the end. Then use your type tool to type in your text.
	Select the lasso tool. Then draw your selections on top of your one of your letter. This will be your snow, so make it look runny/dripping from the top down.
	Now create the same type of selection for the rest of your text, but do this by "adding" to the selection. To add to selection, in the selections' menu bar, select the "Add to Selection" button. This is the most time consuming part for this tutorial, take your time to create some nice dripping selections. If you accidentally make a bad selection, just press CTRL+Z to undo that step.
	Switch to your Channels pallette (Windows-Channels) then create a new channel by clicking on the "new channel" icon at the bottom of the pallette. Press "D" to reset your your colors. then select the Paint bucket tool, and fill in the selection with white.
	Press CTRL+D to deselect your selection. Then go to Filter->Blur->Guassian Blur Radius: 3px Now go to Image->Adjustments->Levels Move your levels sliders so the image is sharp and smooth.
	Switch back to your layer's pallette, create a new layer. Go to Select->Load Selection, in the load selection pannel, in the channel field, select Alpha 1. Then fill in the selection (on the new layer) with white. Now you can press CTRL+D to deselect.
	Add some shade to the snow, by adding a bevel emboss style to it. So go ahead and add "Layer->Layer-Style->Bevel Emboss" to the snow layer. View.
	Now, you can just use your own creativity to add layer styles/background color to your image, but if you want to create what i've done, apply the following layer styles to the original text layer. (note: You may need to adjust a few things with the settings because these settings have different effects depending on the size of the text) Inner Shadow Bevel and Emboss Gradient Overlay Stroke
	Now create a new layer in between your text layer and snow layer. Press D to set your foreground color white, then select your brush tool and set the brush size to about 27, and set it's hardness to about 70% (Set this in the "Brush" Pallette)
	Now just paint underneath your text so it looks like snow ground. That's it, add some gradients to your background or whatever.... DOWNLOAD PSD FILE

Realistic Speakers

2008-10-23T01:11:00.000-07:00

Description: This tutorial will walk you through creating a realistic looking speakers from scratch.

Note: This tutorial use layer styles extensively, so if you don't know how to apply layer styles, here's how: When applying a layer style to a layer, you need to select that layer as the working layer, then simply on the menu bar, select Layer -> Layer Style -> (layer style name)
	Start a new document any size you want. Fill the background with a dark grey color. Select the shape "Ellipse Tool". Then while holding down the SHIFT key, draw a round shape. Then apply this Gradient Overlay style. (Layer->Layer Style->Gradient Overlay)
	Now, still using the ellipse shape tool, Hold down SHIFT and create another round shape, this time slightly smaller than and above the previous shape. Then apply the following layer styles to this shape. Bevel and Emboss Gradient Overlay Inner Shadow
	Once again, create another round shape smaller than the previous, and position it in the centre of the previous. Then apply these layer styles: Gradient Overlay
	From the shape's tool, select the custom shapes tool: From that custom shapes, click the shapes drop down: And select the Circle Thin Frame shape from the drop down. This shape should be in your list, it comes with photoshop. Then draw this shape onto the image, big enough to cover the edges of the previous shape. Set it's color to #2a2a2a
	Now add this layer style to this shape. Bevel and Emboss
	Once again, use the shape tool "Ellipse Tool" to create a smaller circle in the middle of the speaker. Then add the following layer styles. Inner Shadow Gradient Overlay
	Now to create the screws/bolts, use the shape tool (yes, again, but last time, i promise). create a tiny circle and position like I have on the screenshot.
	Now apply the follow layer styles to this tiny shape. Bevel and Emboss Gradient Overlay There we have 1 screw/bolt. Now just duplicate this shape (Right click on the layer on the layers pallette, and select Duplicate Layer), and position it around the speakers like I have. That's it. if your unsure on some of the steps, you can DOWNLOAD MY PSD FILE and have a closer look.

Clean Background

2008-10-23T01:00:00.001-07:00

1. Go to File > New and create a new document. I created mine with the size of 1024x768 pixels.

2. Make sure that it is colored white [ #FFFFFF ] You can use the Paint Bucket Tool to do so if it is not.

3. Create a new layer.

4. Select the Rectangular marquee tool. . Select an area at random on your canvas. You can make it whatever size you wish.

5. With the area still selected, head to Select > Modify > Feather. Edit the setting so it is "5" and confirm it.

6. Now you'll want to pick a color of your choice. For this image, I used various shades of green, but you can use whatever colors you want. If you want to use what I used, go ahead and use the paint bucket tool to fill the selected area to color B2C3AC. [ Note: this tutorial works best with light colors. ]

7. Now, you'll want to repeat steps 3-6 about a dozen times. Make sure that you make the selections at different sizes with this tool so they cover most of the canvas, but make sure to leave a bit of white area leftover on the canvas to give it a "creamy" effect.

Also, when you create new layers, you'll want to lower their opacity a bit as you'll want the filled selections to overlap each other a bit. To do this, on each new layer right click on the layer in the layers window and select blending options. Lower the blending options to your desired amount, but around 40-70 is usually good.

When you are done, it should look similar to the image below.

Step 7 Example

8. Go to Layer > Flaten Image

9. Duplicate the layer.

10. Make sure the top layer is selected. Select Filter > Distort > Polar Cordinates. Tick the Polar to Rectangular box and confirm.

11. Right click on the top layer in the layers menu and select blending options. Set the blending mode to Hard Light.

12. Flatten your layers. [ Layer > Flaten ]

13. Duplicate the layer again. Go to blending optinons. Set the blending mode to Dark Light.

Step 13 Example

14. Flatten the image once more and duplicate the layer.

15. On the first bottom layer, Go to Filter > Distort > Twirl. Set the angle to 377

16. On the second layer, go to Filter > Distort > Twirl. Set the angle to -517.

17. Set the top layer's blend mode to lighten.

Step 17 Example

...And you're done! Well, almost! The rest is up to you. You can add gradients then do the color overlay setting for a more vivid coloring, add images to your background, text, or whatever else you want. Below is the finished product that I created.

Have fun!

Classic Cars Theme Header Design.

2008-10-23T00:57:00.001-07:00

Step one:

Start with a 900 x190 px canvas, in your layers window make a new layer set and name it Header Design. In a new layer draw a 859 x 13 pixels, #0D0502 colored rectangle just below your canvas.

Step two:

With your shape layer from step one add the following layer styles:

Step three:

In a new layer draw a 2 pixels, white line across your canvas, same width as your rectangle from step one.

Step four:

Choose your rounded rectangle tool with a 12 px radius, in a new layer draw a 144 x 12 pixels, white rounded rectangle.

Step five:

Now cut the top corners of your white rounded rectangle and add a gradient overlay layer style:

Step six:

Duplicate the rounded rectangle design from step five 2 times and position them as shown below. Picture is resized.

Step seven:

In a new layer draw a thin black rectangle on the center rounded rectangle design.

Step eight:

Now save the Car Graphic Design and insert it into your canvas.

Step nine:

In a new layer draw a small white rectangle with 2 px black border. Position it on the end of each stripes design from the header.

Step ten:

Choose your text tool and select font Arial Black from the font list. Set the size to 60 pt, strong and #D4B35D for color. In a new text layer type your website name.

Step eleven:

Add your name again with black color and its seperate layer.

Step twelve:

Add your name again with the same font color but white color and in a seperate layer. Position the white text as shown below.

Step thirteen:

With your text layer from step twelve, set the layers blending mode to darken and add a inner shadow layer style:

Step fourteen:

To have the stripes overlaying on top of your text first duplicate the header graphic layer and place it above the text layers on the layers window. Set the layers blending mode to Screen.

Christmas Tree

2008-10-22T10:18:00.001-07:00

This tutorial shows you how to make a beautiful Christmas tree with Adobe Illustrator.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Create the tree foundation

First, roughly create the tree path with Pen Tool and fill it with (green-darker green) gradient. Go to Effect > Distort & Transform > Roughen

Roughen Options

When the Roughen options window popup, enter the following values: Size: 5%, Detail: 100/in and select Points=Corner, then click OK.

2. Create the art brush

Now we need to make a New Art Brush for the tree branches. With the Pen Tool, make a path as shown below(1), fill with dark green, and apply the same Roughen effect as the previous step. Your path now should look like path(2). Duplicate path(2) by ALT+Drag or Copy & Paste, vertically scale it down a bit, and change it to lighter tone of green(3). Repeat this step, duplicate one more path and fill it with a even lighter tone of green(4).

New Art Brush

Select these 3 paths and drag it to the Brushes Library to make a New Art Brush.

Art Brush Options

Leave everything as default, but select Tints and Shades from the Colorization Method drop down menu.

3. Tree branches

With the Pen Tool, create some wavily stroke paths and fill stroke color with green. Then apply these paths with the Art Brush you’ve created in the previous step. Adjust the Opacity between 40-50% so it blends with the tree. If you want bigger tree branches, apply thicker stroke weight, thinner stroke = smaller branches. Play around with the Opacity and Stroke Weight and try to make the tree looks as natural as possible.

4. Christmas balls

Create various size and gradient Christmas balls with the Ellipse Tool. Place some on top of the tree, send some to the back, and put some behind the branches.

5. Light bulbs

The tree still looks too plain, we need some more decorative lights. Create some light bulbs as shown on the left, drag it to the Brushes Library to make a New Scatter Brush.

Scatter Brush Options

When the Scatter Brush Options window popup, select Random for all options and enter the range values as shown below.

6. Tree lights

With the Pen Tool, roughly draw a zig zag path from the top to bottom, and apply the Scatter Brush you’ve created in the previous step. Notice how the light bulbs are randomly rendered base on the range values you’ve entered in the Scatter Brush Options, and you can change these setting at any time by double click on the Library object. If you want to have more lights, create another path and apply the same Scatter Brush.

Final

Download the source file now and see how it is done!

3D Bowl

2008-10-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

This tutorial shows you how to create realistic 3D fruit bowl illustration with one of the Adobe Illustrator CS2 new features: 3D Revolve Effect.

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. Create the bowl

Create a path and fill it with yellow color like the image below. Then, select Effect > 3D > Revolve from the menu.

2. Apply 3D Revolve Setting

When the 3D Revolve Options window popups, apply the following setting:

Click on the More Options if the lower portion window is not showing
Create a new light by clicking on the New Light icon and drag those two lights as shown
Change Shading Color to orange by: select Custom from the drop drop, click on the sample color box, Color Picker window will pop, then enter this color value (R=255 B=50 G=0)
If you want a smooth blending, increse the Blend Steps (default is 25, max is 256). Note: increase Blend Steps will also increase file size and memory usage.

3. Create the apple

Create an oval path with the Ellipse Tool and fill it with green color. Then select that green path and apply Effect > 3D > Revolve, leave all options in the 3D Revolve Options window as default and click OK. Now, you should get something like the image shown below:

4. Add Drop Shadow

Keep the apple path selected, go to Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow and apply the setting as shown below.

5. Create New Art Brush

First create a path similar to the image as shown below, fill it with black (k=100), and then create the highlight path fill it with 80% black (k=80). Drag it to the Brushes library window to create a New Art Brush. If your Brushes library is not on the screen, go to Window > Brushes or press F5.

New Art Brush Options

The Art Brush Option window should pop out, select Tints from the Colorization Method drop down menu, leave everything as default, and click OK.

6. Draw the apple’s basin

Create a stroke path with the Pen Tool and select the Art Brush that you’ve created in the previous step. Now place it on top of the apple like the image shown below.

7. Duplicate the apple

Select the apple (with basin), hold down the ‘Alt‘ (or ‘Option‘ key for Mac), drag it to make a copy of it. You may also use Copy & Paste to duplicate the apple. Then, change it to red color.

8. Adjust 3D Revolve setting

Select the red apple (oval path only), in your Appearance pallate, double click the 3D Revolve effect icon to adjust the options/setting. If your Appearance is not showing, select menu Window > Appearance or press Shift+F6.

3D Revolve Options

Now, your 3D Revolve Options window should pop out. Enter the following value(X=57 Y=63 Z=-159). You can change the rotation values manually by entering the numbers or by dragging the cube on the left.

9. Fix the apple’s basin

Notice the basin is slightly off from the apple after you changed the rotation values from previous step. Move the basin stroke to center of the apple by using the Selection Tool or Direct Selection Tool.

10. Add one more apple

Make one more apple by repeating Step 7 to 9.

11. Put them together

Put the apples and the bowl together as shown. Draw a oval shape path, base on the shape of the bowl.

12. Mask the apples

Select the the apples and oval path only, go to menu Clipping Mask > Make or press Ctrl+7

13. Final

That’s it! Your illustration should look like the image below:

3D Vase

2008-10-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

This tutorial shows you how to create a nice 3D vase in 5 minutes with Illustrator CS2 3D Revolve Tool. It is fun and easy!

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. Create a path

First, create a path like the image shown below with the Pen Tool, go to menu Effect > 3D > Revolve

3D Revolve Options

The 3D Revolve Options window should pop up and look like the image below. Click on More Options if the lower portion window is not showing. You can leave most of the setting as default, but add an additional light spot by click the New Light icon and drag it to the lower left corner as shown. Enter 35 for Blend Steps, maximum Blend Steps is 256, higher Blend Steps results better rendering quality but also increases file size and memory.

2. Create the flower symbol

Now use the Ellipse Tool, create a flower like the image below. I have a very simply flower illustration here, but you can create anything as you like. Drag the flower to the Symbols Library Pallate to create a new symbol. If your Symbols Pallate is not showing, press Ctrl+Shift+F11 or go to Windows > Symbols to show Symbols.

3. Create Map Art

With the vase object selected, in Appearance Pallate, double click on the 3D Revolve effect icon(f) to change the 3D Revolve Options.

When the 3D Revolve Options window pop ups, click on Map Art button.

Map Art options

Check Preview option so you can preview the result. At the top where it says, Surface, use the arrow buttons to locate the surface that you want to Map Art. Notice there is a red wireframe on your object which show you the surface you’ve selected. In this case, it is 4 of 5. From the Symbol drop down, select the symbol that you’ve created in the previous step. You can position and resize the symbol in way as you want. You can also create multi-surface Map Art by selecting the Surface then the Symbol. Click OK when you are happy with the result.

Final

That’s it! With just 3 simple steps, I just created a nice 3D Vase with Illustrator 3D Revolve Tool.

Stamp

2008-10-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

This tutorial shows you how to create a stamp image with Illustrator in just 3 simple steps! This tutorial is useful for designing photo edge or album cover.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Draw a rectangle path

Select the Rectangle Tool, create a box like the image below. Go to Effect > Distort & Transform > Zig Zag.

Zig zag Options

When the Zig Zag window popups, check Preview to preview the result, enter Size=1, Ridges per segment=26, then click OK.

2. Add Drop Shadow effect

With the path selected, go to Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow, and enter the following setting: Opacity=50, X Offset=1 Y Offset=2, Blur=3, and select black color.

3. Place in your artwork

Now you can remove the stroke color and place in your artwork and align them center. That’s it!

Bonus Tips

If you are creating this stamp for print, make sure your Document Raster Effects Settings is 300dpi or you will get pixelated print out. To change your setting, go to Effect > Document Raster Effects Settings. If you are designing for web/screen, leave it as 72dpi because higher dpi takes more memory.

Photoshop CS2 Splash

2008-10-22T10:13:00.002-07:00

Do you like the new Photoshop CS2 splash graphic? Want to learn how to make it? This tutorial shows you how easy it is to create the Photoshop CS2 splash graphic with Adobe Illustrator.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Create the feather paths

First create the paths of the feather with the Pen Tool.

2. Apply Gradient color

Select the top 2 paths, fill it with Radial Gradient, pick similar colors as shown. Then repeat this step for the rest of the paths.

3. Apply Multiply

Select all the feather paths, go to Transparency pallate, select Multiply.

Final

Now you can duplicate the feather and lower the Opacity (Transparency).

Envelope Distort

2008-10-22T10:13:00.001-07:00

In this tutorial, I will show you how to use Illustrator CS Envelope Distort tool to make a trendy fashion ad.

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. Import a picture

Find a beautiful photo that you would like to use for your artwork. Place it in Illustrator by File > Place. Then lock the layer.

2. Base paths

Make a new layer, ‘base paths’. Use the Pen tool, cover the clothes with white paths.

3. Envelope text distortion

Copy all white paths from ‘base paths’ layer and paste it in a new layer. If you want, you can just duplicate the ‘base paths’ layer. Now use the Type tool to type in your text message and send it to back (note: your text must be sit below the shape). Then select the text object and the shirt path, go to Object > Envelope Distort > Make with Top Object or press Ctrl+Alt+C. This will distort the text with the selected shape.

Repeat this step to make the envelope text distortion for the skirt.

Skirt

For the skirt text objects, rotate it to 90 degree.

Don’t forget to use the short cut keys. It will save you a lot of time. Just select the shape and text, and press Ctrl+Alt+C.

Final

Now you can add some design elements in the background to spice up the artwork.

Adobe Bridge Icon

2008-10-22T10:11:00.001-07:00

This tutorial will show you how to replicate the Adobe Bridge icon in Illustrator CS2 using the same techniques as the Photoshop Splash Page Tutorial.

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. Place Images

First, place in the original Adobe Bridge icon image in Layer 1 for reference. Double click on Layer 1 and change the following Layer Options: check Lock and Dim Images to 50%.

2. Start Tracing

Make a new layer. Hold down Ctrl key and click on the Visibility icon of Layer 2 to view that layer in Outline Mode. Now use the Pen tool and start tracing the basic shapes of the sea shell.

Now you should have something like this:

3. Gradient

Select the top layer and apply a 2 colors radial gradient (color 1 = m5, color 2 = c26, m86, y44). Use the Gradient Tool (G) and drag from the lower center to top corner. This will re-position the gradient.

4. Multiply Blending Mode

Now in the Transparency palette, select Multiply Blending Mode. Notice this will create the see through effect.

5. Back Layer

Select the back sea shell layer, fill it with another radial gradient (color 1 = c21, color 2 = c26, m86, y44). Again, you need to use the Gradient Tool to position the gradient. Then, select Multiply Blending Mode.

6. Top layer

Select the top layer and fill it with different color gradient (color 1 = m5, color 2 = c33, m95, y62). Again, select Multiply Blending Mode.

7. Eyedropper

Select the rest of the unfilled paths, use the Eyedropper tool and click on the top layer to copy the gradient fill. To get the best result, you might need to use the Gradient Tool to adjust the gradient position of each shape.

8. Icon Base

Make a rectangle box and then apply 25pt round corner (Effect > Stylize > Round Corners).

9. Drop Shadow

Now go to Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow and apply the following setting:

10. Gradient

Use the Gradient Tool and apply a 3 colors gradient as shown (color 1 = k0, color 2 = k16, color 3 = k13).

11. Add New Stroke

To make an inner glow effect, we need to add a new stroke. in the Appearance palette (top right corner dropdown menu), select Add New Stroke.

Align Stroke Inside

In the Appearance palette, selct the new added stroke, fill it with 4pt white stroke color. Then open the Stroke palette, and click on Align Stroke to Inside.

12. White background

Notice when you place the sea shell on top of the icon base, the sea shell is see-through because the blending mode has been set to multiply? We can get rid of that by adding a white background to the sea shell. First copy the entire sea shell to clipboard, then merge the current sea shell by Alt-click on Add to shape area (Pathfinder palette).

Then, Ctrl+F to paste the copied sea shell in front.

Final

The image on the left is my version and the image on the right is the original version.

Illustrator Template

2008-10-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Do you have certain graphic elements(ie. your logos, credit card logos, icons), Color Swatches, Graphic Styles, and Art Brushes that you commonly use in Illustrator? If your answer is yes, this tutorial might be helpful to you.

Version: Illustrator CS

Download Source File

Introduction

I personally use Adobe Illustrator alot, to save my time and work more efficiently, I have created serveral custom Libraries Illustrator Templates. I have one template with only RGB Color Swatches, one with CMYK Color Swatches, and one with minimal Library items. The minimal Libraries template has removed all unused/unwanted Library items and is use to create my Illustrator tutorial source file. This way I can cut down on the file size because each Library item in your file costs memory. The templates store the Color & Gradient Swatches, Art Brushes, and Graphic Styles that I commonly use in my illustration. Imagine the time it will cost if I need to remove all unused Libraries every time I create a new tutorial file. Or I need to open up an existing file to copy the Color Swatches & Graphic Styles that I want.

Illustrator Template can store: Artboard setting, Color/Gradient Swatches, Graphic Styles, Symbols, Layers, graphic placeholders, and more. For full detailed information on Illustrator Template, please read Illustrator’s Help files.

1. Create your custom Libraries

Most of you probably already know how to create Libraries, so I’m not going to explain all the details. Creating your Libraries is very easy, just drag your object in the Library pallate or select the object and click on the New icon. To remove your Library items, select the items that you want to remove and click on the Trash Can icon.

2. Save your template

After you’ve done with the Libraries, go to File > Save as Template and name your template that is best describe the content/setting of the file, ie. RGB Color Setting, For Print.

3. New From Template

Now go to File > New From Template and Adobe Illustrator will create a new file with all the setting you’ve created in your template.

Conclusion

Start making Illustrator Template now and save your working time!

Comic Style Strokes

2008-10-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

This tutorial will show you how to draw comic style outline strokes with Adobe Illustrator Art Brush.

Version: Illustrator 8+

Download Source File

1. Create an Art Brush

Use the Pen Tool and create a path like the image on the left. Drag it to the Brushes Library pallate. If your Brushes is not showing, go to Window > Brushes of press F5.

New Art Brush

When the New Brush options window popup, select New Art Brush.

Art Brush Options

Then the New Art Brush Options will pop out, leave everything as default, but select Tints for Colorization Method. Click Ok.

2. Apply your strokes

Now you can apply this Art Brush to any stroke by clicking the Art Brush in the Brushes library.

Bonus Tips

You can change your stroke color and weight to get various stroke effect.

3D Graphs

2008-10-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

3D Graphs

Are you still using the traditional 2D graph for your reports and presentations? This tutorial shows you how to create 3D graphs with Illustrator CS2 at ease.

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. Create the graph

Select the Pie Graph Tool , click on the Artboard/screen, then enter 200×200px.

Data Table

Your graph data table will pop up like the image below. Enter 15, 55, 30 and then click on the check mark to apply data. You may close this data table now.

2. Ungroup the graph

You need to ungroup or break the graph in order to apply color and effects to each piece. With the graph selected, go to Object > Ungroup or press Ctrl+Shift+G. There will be a warning box(After a graph is ungrouped you will no longer be able to access its graph style, its data or change its graph designs.) just click Yes. Now Ungroup again, first Ungroup is to break the graph, second Ungroup is to break the object into pieces. Fill with any color as you want and remove stroke color.

3. Apply Extrude & Bevel

Select any piece(I’ve selected yellow here), go to Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel.

3D Extrude & Bevel options

If the lower portion window is not showing, click More Options. Now you may drag the cube on the left to specify the Rotation or enter the X-Y-Z Axis values manually. Enter 20pt for Extrude Depth. Add an extra Light by clicking on New Light icon and drag it as shown below.

4. Make a Graphic Style

With the yellow piece selected, in Graphic Styles pallate, click on the New Graphic Style icon to make a Graphic Styles of that object. If your Graphic Styles pallate is not showing, go to Window > Graphic Styles or press Shift+F5.

5. Apply Graphic Styles

Now select the orange and green piece, click on the Graphic Style you’ve created in previous step to apply the styles onto these objects.

Final

One last step you need to do is to reposit the pie. Notice after you applied the Graphic Styles, the pie is off a bit, use the Selection Tool and put them back together. Now you have a nice colorful 3D pie graph.

Bonus Tips

You can use the same technique to create the bar graph like the image below. Click here to download the source file of this Bar Graph sample.

Illustrator CS2 Splash

2008-10-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

The previous tutorial shows you how to make Photoshop splash graphic, this Illustrator tutorial will show you how to make Illustrator CS2 splash graphic using the simple gradient and Multiply Blending mode.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Create the flower paths

First create the paths of the flower with the Pen Tool.

2. Apply Gradient color

Select one of the petals, fill it with Radial Gradient (pick similar colors as shown) and select Multiply in Transparency pallate.

Select the un-filled petals, use the Eyedropper Tool, click on the gradient petal to copy the fill. You might need to adjust the gradient fill of each petal with the Gradient Tool.

3. Filament

Create a filament, fill it with Linear Gradient and select Multiply in Transparency pallete.

Then duplicate it.

4. Center

Use the Ellipse Tool, make a circle, fill it with Radial Gradient (as shown) and select Multiply in Transparency pallate.

Final

Duplicate the flower and lower the Opacity (Transparency).

Stylish Vector Flower

2008-10-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

Learn how to create stylish vector/line flower with Illustrator Blend Tool. This Adobe Illustrator tutorial is great for creating background and large print illustration.

Version: Illustrator 8+

Download Source File

1. Flower petal

Create two stroke paths: one yellow and one blue.

2. Blend Options

Go to Object > Blend > Blend Options and set it to Specified Steps = 10. Specified Steps basically tells how many step to blend from 1 object to another.

Blend

Now select the 2 petal paths, go to Object > Blend > Make or press Ctrl + Alt + B and you should get something looks like the image shown below.

3. Duplicate more petals

Duplicate more petals to form the flower by Copy & Paste or Alt + Drag.

4. Stem

Create a stem by using the same Blend technique as in the previous step. Here I set the Specified Steps = 8.

5. Leaf

The leaf is formed by 2 parts, top and bottom. I use Specified Steps = 5 here.

6. Put them together

Now put them together to create a beautiful flower.

7. Right long leaf

Create a long leaf with Blend step = 3.

8. Left long leaf

Repeat the previous step to create the left long leaf.

Final

Your final image should looks like the image shown below:

More…

Play around with the stroke color, stroke weight, Blend step, Transparency and you might get unexpected nice result. Here is a sample I did in Photoshop, with different Blend Mode, Multiply and Darken. This image style is good for creating website header, banner, wallpaper, background, large print, etc.

Tracing Photo

2008-10-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Tracing Photo

Full detailed tutorial on how to draw and trace people from a photo. Learn how to create realistic illustration with just simple gradient fill. No massive Gradient Mesh!

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Place a photo

First place a photo in Layer 1 by File > Place or Copy & Paste from clip board. Double click on Layer 1 to change the Layer Options. Set Dim Images to: 30% and lock layer.

2. Start tracing

Make a new layer (Layer 2). Hold down Ctrl key and click on the eye icon of Layer 2 to view Layer 2 in Outline mode.

Use the Pen Tool and start tracing the basic features of the girl. While you are tracing, there are couple shortcut keys you should know in order to work more faster.

These shortcuts are:

Ctrl+[ = Send Backward (This will send object back 1 step)
Ctrl+] = Bring Forward (This will bring object front 1 step)
Ctrl+Shift+[ = Send to Back (This will send object all the way to the back)
Ctrl+Shift+] = Bring to Front (This will bring object all the way to the front)
Ctrl+F = Paste in Front (This will paste object in front with same position)

3. Make shadow

Draw a new path as shown (top). Then Copy the base path of the face and Paste in Front. Select the copied base path and the new path, open your Pathfinder, Alt-click on Intersect shape areas.

Use the same technique from previous step and make all shadow paths for the overall illustration. You don’t have to get into the details yet, one simple shadow path of each part is good enough (ie. eye, lips, shirt, body, etc). Remember to use Ctrl+C for copy; and Ctrl+F to paste object in front. Trust me, this will save you a lot of time!

4. Fill in base color

Now fill in the base color for the face, eye, lips, and eyebrow.

5. Shadow gradient

Fill the shadow path of the face with a Gradient (white-skin tone) and select Multiply for Blending Mode.

Select the other shadow paths and use the Eyedropper Tool to copy the gradient fill of the main shadow path.

For the lip and eye shadow, use the Eyedropper to copy the base fill and select Multiply Blending Mode.

6. Body

Use the same technique, copy the gradient fill for the body. Note you might to adjust the gradient of each shadow path to blend in with the overall illustration.

7. Hair

Pretty much the same, fill 1 path with the gradient, then use the Eyedropper Tool to copy the fill.

8. Shirt

Same technique as the previous steps.

9. Skirt

Fill the skirt with a blue gradient, then use the Eyedropper Tool to copy the fill for the shadow.

10. Hair details

Now you can add more details to the hair. Make shadow effect by adding Multiply paths. Add some highlights by using lighter gradient color. If you want, you can add more details to the clothes, lips, or add a cool tattoo on her body.

Final

After you get used to this tracing technique, you can basically trace anything!

More Samples

Here are some samples that I traced from photo using the same technique.

iTune Icon

2008-10-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

iTune Icon

The challange of this tutorial is to use various Blending modes and blending techniques to replicate the iTune icon. This tutorial is a good exercise to master your Blend techniques.
Version: Illustrator 9+
Download Source File
1. Basic shapes

Start making the basic shapes of the iTune icon. If you need help on how to trace from an image, visit my Tracing Photo tutorial.

2. Music note

Make a glossy orb by using my Glossy Button technique. First, make 3 shapes from light color to dark color. Go to Object > Blend > Blend Options, select Specified Steps = 128. Then select all 3 shapes and press Ctrl + Alt + B or go to Object > Blend > Make.

Reflection

Make an oval shape and fill with black-white gradient. Make sure the black color is full black (C,M,Y,K=100). Drag it on top of the orb and select Screen Blending Mode.

Highlights

Make a tall vertical rectangle and an elongate circle; then Blend it. Duplicate it by Alt-drag to the right.

Make a 3 color gradient path.

Make another highlight using the same Blending technique as in the previous step and select Screen Blending Mode.

3. CD

Use the Gradient tool and fill the CD shapes with white-grey gradient.

Rainbow Gradient

Make some multi-color line strokes as shown below. Make sure the first and last stroke is white because it will be transparent. Use the Blend Tool (W), click on the edge of each stroke starting from left to right.

Mask

Use the CD shape and mask the rainbow gradient by Ctrl+7 or Object > Clipping Mask > Make. Then select Multiply Blending Mode and adjust the Opacity to 26%.

Repeat the previous step to make another rainbow gradient.

4. Music note refection

Make 3 oval paths, make sure the outer path is white color(this will make a glow effect). Select all 3 paths, go to Object > Blend > Make (Ctl+Alt+B).

Drag it below the music note and select Multiply Blending Mode , 37% Opacity. Duplicate the refection object by Alt-drag to the right side.

5. Drop Shadow

The last step is to apply a Drop Shadow effect to the CD. Select the outer CD path, go to Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow and apply the following setting:

Final

Here is the final iTune icon!

3D Logo

2008-10-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

This tutorial will show you how to make 3D gradient logo in minutes. This technique is great for making 3D graphic objects and icons.

Version: Illustrator CS2

Download Source File

1. 3D text

Use the Type tool, type in "3D Logo". Go to Effect >Warp > Arc and apply the following setting:

2. 3D Extrude & Bevel

Then go to Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel and apply the setting as shown in the image below. You can drag around the cube to set the X,Y,Z rotation values. Set the Extrude Depth to 20pt.

3. Expand Appearance

Now go to Object > Expand Appearance to remove all effects and convert to paths. After the text object is expanded, Ungrounp the object by Object > Ungroup or press Ctrl+Shift+G. You probably need to do Ungroup 4-5 times in order to break the object apart.

4. Merge paths

Select the round corner paths and merge them together by the Pathfinder tool. Hold down Alt key, click on the Add to shape area and the selected paths will be merged. Repeat this step to clean up all round corner paths.

5. Apply gradient

Select the top level paths and apply a yellow-green color gradient.

6. Eyedropper

Select the back(depth) paths, use the Eyedropper tool and click on the front paths. This will copy the gradient fill.

7. Darken

Keep the back paths selected, go to Gradient pallete and adjust the gradient colors to darker tone.

8. 3D logo

You can use this technique to make 3D objects from any shape, text, etc.

Here are the steps:

Apply 3D Extrude & Bevel effect
Expand object
Ungroup object
Apply gradient
Eyedropper gradient fill

More…

Here are more samples I made using the same technique.

Halloween Pumpkin

2008-10-22T09:55:00.000-07:00

Let’s have some fun. Learn how to draw a realistic Halloween pumpkin in Illustrator so you can attach to your ecard or email.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Basic shapes

First, use the Pen tool and draw the basic shapes of the pumpkin.

2. Fill Gradient

Fill the shapes with a linear gradient with no stroke fill. Gradient color1: R=255 G=127 B=0, color2: R=255 G=127 B=0

3. Shading

Select all shapes, go to menu Edit > Copy (Ctrl+C). Then go to menu Edit > Paste in Front (Ctrl+F) to paste in position.

With the shapes remain selected, open Pathfinder palette (Window > Pathfinder). Hold down Alt key, click on Add to shape area. This will merge shapes together.

Select the following gradient setting - color1: R=255 G=255 B=255, color2: R=204 G=122 B=22. Slide the white picker toward the right side. With the merged shape remain selected, drag from the upper center toward bottom.

Change the Blending Mode of the merged shape to Multiply.

4. Stem

Use the Pen tool and draw a shape of stem on top of the pumpkin. Fill it with a radial gradient as shown. Gradient color1: R=111 G=129 B=46, color2: R=82 G=56 B=17.

5. Cutout Face

Make a new layer on top of the pumpkin. Use the Pen tool and draw the basic shapes of the face. Select all the shapes (face only), use the Gradient tool and fill it with a radial gradient as shown. Gradient color1: R=255 G=242 B=0, color2: R=255 G=146 B=0, color3: R=187 G=50 B=0.

6. Depth

Now, we need to add some depth to the pumpkin cutouts. Use the Pen tool, roughly draw a shape intersect with the left eye cutout. Then Copy the left eye and Paste in Front. Select the left eye shape and the intersect shape, go to Pathfinder, hold down Alt key and click on Intersect shape areas.

Repeat this step until you get all the features done (eyes, nose, and mouth).

7. Shadow & Highligh

Fill the shadow area with a darker gradient (color1: R=255 G=146 B=0, color2: R=187 G=50 B=0). Then fill the highlight area with a lighter gradient (color1: R=255 G=255 B=139, color2: R=255 G=164 B=0).

Final

That’s it!

Chinese Bamboo

2008-10-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

Do you like the bamboo scene on my Flash site? Well, here is the quick tutorial. This tutorial will show you how to illustrate Chinese bamboo with Illustrator Symbol Sprayer and Mesh Tool.

Version: Illustrator 10+

Download Source File

1. Draw bamboo body

Create a path like the image shown below with the Pen Tool and fill it with green color. Then, select Mesh Tool click on the lower left corner of the bamboo body(pt. 1) and pick a lighter tone color(yellow-green). Then, add another Mesh point at the upper left corner of the bamboo(pt. 2). Just a little right above pt. 2, add another point(pt. 3). Now, add the final point beside pt. 2 and select a darker tone green for shadow.

2. Create bamboo stick

Select the bamboo body you’ve created in previous step, hold down the ALT key, drag it up to make a copy (you can use Copy & Paste if you like). Then shrink the new bamboo body horizontally with Selection Tool. Send this new bamboo body behind the first bamboo body by select Object > Arrage > Send Backward or press Ctrl+[. Repeat this step until you get a stack of 5 or 6.

3. Duplicate bamboo stick

After you’ve finished the first bamboo, make a copy of it by ALT drag or Copy & Paste. Select the new bamboo stick, apply Filter > Distort > Twist(Angle=3) so that they don’t look identical.

4. Draw a bended bamboo

We want the bamboo look natural, not Copy & Paste, so we need to create a bended bamboo. Repeat Step 1 & 2 to create a bended bamboo like the image shown below. Now we 3 different versions of bamboo: straight, bended, and twisted.

5. Duplicate more bamboo

Make more bamboo by ALT + drag. Selectively copy from different version of bamboo, resize them or flip them around so they don’t look alike.

6. Create bamboo leaves

Create your bamboo leaves like the image on the left(below) and fill it with different tone of green. Again, use Mesh Tool to create the lighter spot.

7. Make a bamboo leaves Symbol

After you done with the leaves, drag it to the Symbols Pallate to create a new Symbol. If your Symbols Pallate is not showing, go to Window > Symbols or press Ctrl+Shift+F11.

8. Symbol Sprayer Tool

Create a new layer and lock the bamboo sticks layer(Layer 1). Select Symbol Sprayer Tool and pick the bamboo leaves Symbol you have created in previous step. Spray it on Layer 2 by dragging the mouse.

9. Symbol Sizer Tool

Now, we need to create various size of bamboo leaves. Select Symbol Sizer Tool, randomly click on the bamboo leaves object. Tips: hold down ALT key+click to reduce size.

10. Symbol Spinner Tool

Use Symbol Spinner Tool to rotate/spin Symbols.

11. Symbol Shifter Tool

Use Symbol Shifter Tool to spread(by drag) bamboo leaves out.

12. Symbol Stainer Tool

Select a lighter yellow-green tone color and use Symbol Stainer Tool to stain Symbols (stain Symbols randomly).

13. Symbol Screener Tool

Use Symbol Screener Tool to reduce bamboo leaves Opacity (selectively click on the leaf symbols). This will get a see-through effect.

14. Make more leaves behind

After you done with the leaves on Layer 2, make a new layer(Layer 3) and drag it to the bottom of the layer list. Lock Layer 1 and Layer 2, use Symbol Sprayer Tool to make more bamboo leaves(refer to Step 8-13) on Layer 3.

15. Add more bamboo sticks

Finally, duplicate more smaller bamboo sticks and send them behind the big bamboo sticks.

16. Final!

Here is the final image.

Christmas Hat

2008-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

In my previous tutorial I showed how to make a Christmas tree, this tutorial shows you how draw a furry Christmas hat.

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Hat

Start your hat by drawing 2 basic paths and filling them with Linear gradient (red to darker-red).

2. Shadow

Make a path (shadow path) like the image on the left. Select the top part of the hat, Copy & Paste in Front (Ctrl+F). Now, select the copied path and the shadow path, hold down Alt key and select Intersect shape areas in Pathfinder pallate.

Your path should looks like the image on the left. Repeat this step to make another shadow path for the bottom part of the hat. Then fill these 2 shadow paths with Linear gradient (red to darker-red), in your Transparency pallate, select Multiply.

3. Fur

With your Pen Tool, roughly draw a path like the image on the left and fill it with grey color. Go to Effect > Distort & Transform > Roughen

Roughen Options

In your Roughen window, enter the following setting: Size=8%, Detail=95/in, select Corner points. You may click on the Preview check box to preview your result.

Make a copy of the grey path by holding down Alt + drag (you may use Copy & Paste if you like) and fill it with white. Scale it down a bit and bring it up slightly above the grey path. Select the top part of the hat and its shadow, bring them to front by Object > Arrange > Bring to Front (Ctrl+Shift+]).

Use the Ellipse Tool to make the circle and repeat the previous step to make the furry ball.

Final

Your final illustration should looks like the image shown below.

Have Fun

Now, have fun with your Christmas hat!

Abstract Background

2008-10-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

In my previous tutorial, I’ve showed you how to make stylish flower with Blend Tool. This tutorial shows you how to make hi-tech style abstract background with Illustrator Blend Tool. Very cool and simple!

Version: Illustrator 9+

Download Source File

1. Gradient background

Create a rectangular path and fill it with blue gradient.

2. Screen gradient paths

Create another path with Blue-Black gradient and select Screen Blending Mode. This will create a lighter blue gradient shade. If your color setting is CMYK, make sure the black is full black (C,M,Y,K=100). The red arrow on the image is the direction of the gradient fill.

Repeat the previous step to create another Screen gradient path.

3. Abstract wave

Make 2 white stroke paths.

4. Blend Tool

Go to Object > Blend > Blend Options, enter Specified Steps = 20. Then with the 2 strokes selected, go to Object > Blend > Make or press Ctrl+Alt+B. This will blend 2 white strokes and create an abstract wave effect. If you want to change the Blend step, you can go to Object > Blend > Blend Options or double click the Blend Tool(B) on the tool bar.

5. Change stroke color

Use Direct Selection Tool (A), select one of strokes and change it to blue stroke color. Notice how 2 strokes blend from blue to white. Isn’t this cool?

6. Wild blend

Now go wild with your Pen tool, create 2 wavy strokes and blend them. Play around with the Blend step, stroke weight and color.

Repeat the steps and create the last abstract blend, from blue to purple.

Final

Your image should look like something below:

Abstract Desktop Wallpaper

Now you can use this abstract image for your desktop wallpaper. Download this abstract background for your desktop wallpaper.

Make an old paper in Photoshop

2008-09-12T03:15:00.000-07:00

In this Photoshop tutorial, we'll make a nice old paper image. Let's start.

Open AdobePhotoshop. Open New document, 150x200 pixels with white background.
Create a new layer, pick Rectangular Marquee Tool, mark and paint selection in black. Just like on this image.

Deselect. Go to FILTER - BRUSHED STROKES - SPRAYED STROKES , and set:
Stroke Length to 10
Spray Radius to 15
Stroke Direction - Horizontal.

In Tools, pick "Magic Wand" and click inside black rectangular. Now, invert selection and click Delete. Deselect.

Go again from "FILTER - BRUSHED STROKES - SPRAYED STROKES" part but instead Stroke Direction Horizontal pick "Right Diagonal". Play with sliders a little to make nice effect.

CTRL + click on layer and pick Red:240, Green:225, Blue:205 color. Paint black rectangular.

Make new layer. In brush, pick Soft brush 45. Opacity to 20%. Mix Red:116, Green:74, Blue:0 color and paint edges.

CTRL Click on rectangular layer to load selection, invert it and delete.
Link layers and merge linked.
Go to FILTER - EFFECTS - Outer Glow. Mode - normal.
Opacity - 75%.
Blur - 1 pixels.
Intensity - 50%.

Now, go to FILTER - EFFECTS - Drop Shadow.
Mode - multiply.
Opacity - 50%.
Angle 135
Distance 7 pixels.
Blur 6.
Intensity 0%.

Now go to IMAGE - ADJUST - Brightness/Contrast, and add picture or text.

You just made old paper in Photoshop for your usage.

Transparent Cube

2008-09-12T00:51:00.000-07:00

In this tutorial you are going to learn how to create a transparent cube. This is what we will be creating :

Step 1.
Start of by creating a new document. I made it 200x200 and filled it with a gray color. Make a new layer and pick up the Poligonal Marquee tool. Create a selection like below and fill it with a blue color:

Step 2.
In this step we are going to create the inside of the cube. So create a new layer behind the second layer like this :

To create the interior of the cube we are going to make 3 parts using the poligonal marquee tool.
For the first selection fill it with the same blue color and using the burn tool burn the bottom
area :

In this image I hidden the Top layer for a better view:

Now repeat the step for each wall :
1

2

Now i have revealed the the top layer and reduced its opacity to 40%

Step 3.
In this step we are going to modify the face of the cube. So select the top layer and grab the poligonal marquee tool. Create a selection like this :

Using the dodge tool dodge the selection and after deselect. Using the same dodge tool dodge untill you get a result like below:

Step 4.
Grab the poligonal marquee tool and on a new layer make a selection like below and fill it white :

Lower the layer opacity to around 20% and repeat the step for the top area.

You now have your transparent cube. With text:

Glossy cartoonish balloons Photoshop tut [VID]

2008-09-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is a great small Adobe Photoshop tutorial I made a while ago, a tutorial on how to make cartoon style balloons, that you can use for anything, birthday cards, webdesign you name it. I hope you'll enjoy it.

And here is the video tutorial on how you can make some easy cartoonish balloons with Adobe Photoshop.

Beer

2008-09-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

Select the Gradient Tool (G).

Click the Gradient at the top-left of screen for the "Gradient Editor" to appear.

Gradient’s parameters:

1.	Location: 0%	Color: #dde4e8
2.	Location: 8%	Color: #ffffff
3.	Location: 11%	Color: #d4ac45
4.	Location: 59%	Color: #deb73d
5.	Location: 78%	Color: #d0b86d
6.	Location: 89%	Color: #b09c52
7.	Location: 95%	Color: #abab52
8.	Location: 100%	Color: #ccd9e1

Create a New Layer and call it "gradient".

Apply the gradient created in the previous step to the gradient layer starting at the top, and all the way to the bottom.

This is how it should look.

Set the gradient layer's Opacity to 60% so that you can see the glass shape beneath.

Still working on the gradient layer, press Ctrl+T to select the Transform Tool. Click the Switch Between Free Transform And Warp Mode button in the options bar at the top of the screen.

You should now drag all four Conner Handles, so that the top border of the gradient flushes the top border of the glass, and the bottom border flushes with the bottom border of the glass. You should also move the Control Point Handles to get this precise.

Click here for more info on how to use this tool.

Apply changes and set the gradient layer's opacity back to 100%.

Now, move the Mask form the glass layer to the gradient layer. Note: Move only the Mask, not the whole layer.

Rasterize the gradient layer. To do this, right click the gradient layer and select Rasterize Layer.

Delete the glass layer.

You should have this by now.

Select the Burn Tool (O). Set brush size to 150px and exposure to 50%. Burn the glass center from top to down as shown in the picture. You may need to try this a couple of times before you get it right.

Select the Dodge Tool (O). Set brush size to 150px and exposure to 50%. Do the same you did on the previous step, but this time on the glass sides.

Create a new layer and call it "base". Using the Lasso Tool (L) or the Pen Tool (P) draw something like I did. Don't worry if it not perfect, it doesn't need to be. Fill that selection with grey (#666666).

Go to Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur and set the radius to 13.

Duplicate the base layer and call it "base bottom". Drag base bottom all the way to the glass bottom.

Again duplicate the base layer and call it "base white".

Press Ctrl+M so that the Curves window appears. Drag the bottom-left Control Point to the top-left corner, so that your base white layer turns white.

Using the Eraser Tool (E) with a large brush. Erase the left side of base white so you get a result similar to mine.

Using the Magic Wand Tool (W) select the white part of the gradient layer.

Without deselecting, delete the excess parts of the base, base bottom, base white layers.

You should have this now.

Use the Lasso Tool (L) to select the top part of the gradient layer. Press Ctrl+C to copy this selection and Ctrl+v to paste. This will create a new layer, call it "Top".

Drag layer top under layer gradient and move it a few pixels up.

Now press Ctrl+M to call the Curves window. Drag the top-right Control Point half way down, so that your top layer turns grey.

Select the Dodge Tool (O). Set brush size to 20px and exposure to 50%. Apply it on the sides of the foam as the picture shows to give the glass more realism.

And that's it!

You can later add some sweat drops and reflections but that's a whole new tutorial.

If you have any question regarding this tutorial, please - contact us -

Create a Sony Playstation 3 in Photoshop

2008-09-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

Step 1:

Let's start out by creating a new document. I used a 600x600 pixels canvas set at 72dpi, and I filled my background with a white color.

Step 2:

Just to be organize create a new layer set(Layer > New > Layer Set) and name it 'Playstation 3'. Now make a new layer and draw a black rectangle, size 248 x 369 px.

Step 3:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your black rectangle layer.

Step 4:

Create a new layer, on the left side of your gradient rectangle draw a white rectangle with an exact size of 73x369 px. Make sure there is one pixel space from the end of the rectangle.

Step 5:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your white rectangle layer.

Step 6:

In a new layer draw another white rectangle, size 52x369 px on the left end of your current design.

Step 7:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Satin and Gradient Overlay blending options to your white rectangle layer from the last step. Then on your layers palette set the layers blending mode to Darken at 39% opacity.

Step 8:

Now select your Eraser Tool with a large soft brush, 170 px to be exact. Then erase the top and bottom of your white rectangle layer with styles attached.

Step 9:

Create a new layer. Next to your gradient rectangle draw a #F4F4F4 color shade rectangle, size 7x364 px. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options.

Step 10:

Create another layer and draw a #353535 color shade rectangle, size 40x363 px.

Step 11:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow and Gradient Overlay blending options to your #353535 color shade rectangle layer.

Step 12:

In a new layer draw a small right triangle with #636363 color shade right above the light gray rectangle from step nine.

Step 13:

Again create a new layer and draw a black rectangle, size 37x188 px at the same location as shown on the picture guide below. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option.

Step 14:

Now create a new layer and draw a thin, #444643 color shade rectangle at the same location as shown on the picture below. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option.

Step 15:

Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Arial, bold, 7 pt, crisp and #B5B0C7 color shade. In a new text layer type 'Sony'. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option.

Step 16:

Now select the Zoom Tool and zoom in at the same location shown below. Create a new layer, grab your pencil tool then draw two lines stacked with one another. First line has a #484848 color shade and the second line under it has a #1A1A1A color shade.

Step 17:

Create a new layer and draw a 2 pixels white line as shown on the picture below. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option and set the layers blending mode to Darken.

Step 18:

In a new layer draw a 1 pixel, #363636 color shade line at right end of your current design. Make sure you leave a four pixels space from the end of the design.

Step 19:

Using your Pen Tool create a curve design on top of the large rectangle. Then add the same curve design at the bottom by flipping it horizontal( Edit > Transform > Flip Horizontal).

Step 20:

Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Homoarakhn, regular, 13 pt, crisp and white color. In a new text layer type 'Playstation 3' on the center of your large rectangle. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Stroke blending option.

Step 21:

In a new layer draw a black rectangle overlaping the 'playstation 3' text. Then select your Eraser Tool with a large soft brush, 170 px to be exact and erase the top and bottom end of the black rectangle so it has a fade effect.

Step 22:

Set the opacity level of the black rectangle layer from step twnety one to 56%.

Step 23:

Now add the function buttons, first save the icons below and insert them into your canvas. Resize the buttons by going to Edit > Transform > Scale and position them as shown below.

Step 24:

And finally add the playstation logo. Use the same method from the last step for the logo.

Step 25:

Finish it off by adding reflections, first duplicate your 'Playstation 3' layer set. To do this highlight the layer set in your layers pallette and go to Layer > Merge Layer Set. Then turn it upside down through Edit > Transform > Flip Horizontal.
Now place the duplicate Playstation 3 model design layer behind the original 'Playerstation 3' layer set. The layer is titled 'Set 2 copy' on the picture below.

Step 26:

Select your Eraser Tool with a large soft brush, 170 px to be exact. Then erase the bottom half of the duplicate Playstation 3 layer to make a reflection. Thats it, your done!.

Creating a Custom MP3 Player with Photoshop

2008-09-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

Step 1:

Let's start out by creating a new file. I used a 500x600 pixels canvas set at 72dpi, and I filled my background with a white color. Then on your tools palette set the foreground color to gray, color code #EDEDED.

Step 2:

Select the Rounded Rectangle Tool, above your screen under the options palette choose Fill Pixels, set the radius to 20 px and check anti-aliased. Create a new layer and draw a gray, color code #EDEDED rounded rectangle, exact size 237x360 px.

Step 3:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Stroke blending option to your gray rounded rectangle layer.

Step 4:

Duplicate your gray rounded rectangle layer and under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Satin and Stroke blending options.

Step 5:

Create a new layer then draw a #74DCFF color shade rounded rectangle on the middle of the MP3 Player design, exact size 204x223 px.

Step 6:

Now cut the bottom corners of the rounded rectangle from step five.

Step 7:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Satin and Stroke blending options to your #74DCFF color shade rounded rectangle.

Step 8:

In a new layer add the same rectangle with round corners from step six but black color.

Step 9:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Inner Shadow, Gradient Overlay and Stroke blending options to your black rounded rectangle layer.

Step 10:

On your layers palette set the layers blending mode of your black rectangle with top corners to Lighten.

Step 11:

Create a new layer, same location as shown on the picture draw a #F5F5F7 color shade circle, exact size 26x26 px. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option.

Step 12:

Create another layer, inside your gradient circle add a smaller circle with #DBDBDD color shade and 20 x 20 px dimensions. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Inner Glow, Satin, and Stroke blending options.

Step 13:

Select the Rounded Rectangle Tool, in a new layer draw a gray, color code #DBDBDD rounded rectangle, exact size 62x27 px.

Step 14:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Inner Shadow, Inner Glow, Satin and Strokeblending options to your gray rounded rectangle layer.

Step 15:

Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Arial, regular, 13 pt, crisp and black color. In a new text layer type 'Menu' on the glossy button.

Step 16:

Create a new layer set(Layer > New > Layer Set), name 'Button'. In a new layer draw a #F5F5F7 color shade circle, exact size 35x35 px. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option.

Step 17:

Create another layer, inside your gradient circle add a smaller circle with #DBDBDD color shade and 24 x 24 px dimensions. Then under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add an Inner Shadow, Inner Glow, Satin, and Stroke blending options.

Step 18:

Now duplicate your 'Button' layer set twice and position them as shown below.

Step 19:

Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Webdings, regular, 16 pt, crisp and #00B9FF color shade. In seperate text layers type '4' '7' '8' and position each play button on the empty buttons.

Step 20:

Create a new layer, next to the menu button draw a #E5E5E7 color shade circle, exact size 23x23 px.

Step 21:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Drop Shadow, Inner Glow and Stroke blending options to your gray circle from step twenty.

Step 22:

Duplicate your circle layer from the last step.

Step 23:

Now add icons on the blank circle buttons. Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Webdings, regular, 18 pt, smooth and #969696 color shade. In seperate text layers type 'a' & 'X' and position them on the empty buttons.

Step 24:

Select the Rounded Rectangle Tool, in a new layer draw a black rounded rectangle, exact size 163x191 px.

Step 25:

Under Layer Style(Layer > Layer Style) add a Gradient Overlay blending option to your black rounded rectangle. Then set the layers blending mode to Lighten.

Step 26:

Select your Horizontal Type Tool and above your screen under the options palette set the font family to Arial, bold, 9 pt, sharp and #73767B color shade. In a new text layer type the name of your custom MP3 Player.

Results:

Custom MP3 Player.

Photoshop - Lightning bolt

2008-09-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Today, we'll learn how to create easy Lightning bolt effect in Photoshop.
Like you'll see, it is veeery easy to do...

1. Start with creating new Canvas (file). Make sure you foreground and background colors are set to black and white (you can do this by typing 'D' on your keyboard)

2. Go to Filter -> Render -> Difference Clouds in your menu, and select Difference Clouds.

3. The picture should be as something below.

4. Now, Invert the colors. You can do this by going to Images -> Adjustments -> Invert (also in your menu), and you should get something as follows.

5. Now go to Image -> Adjustments -> Levels (or by keyboard shortcut Ctrl+L), and play with scroll bar as much as you like, until you get satisfactory results

6. You can also adjust colors, by going to Image -> Adjustments -> Hue/Saturation. (make sure you check 'colorise' checbox). Now adjust it to fit your preferences, and enjoy....

7. ...your lightning bolt picture!

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:28:00.003-07:00

step 1

1. Let’s start out by creating a new file. I used a 600×500 pixels

canvas set at 72dpi,and set the foreground color #687679, background

color #323F41, press Ctrl+Delete to fill the layer with foreground

color.

step 2

2. Go to Filter - Render - Clouds.

step 3

3. Go to Artistic - Underpainting.

step 4

4. The Underpainting filter setting : Brush size = 40, Texture Coverage

= 40, texture = brick, scaling = 200%, Relief = 18, Light = Top and

then click ok.

step 5

5.Duplicate the background layer (Ctrl + J), the second layer is layer

1. Go to Stylize - Find Edges.

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:28:00.001-07:00

step 6

6. See the Find Edges effect below :

step 7

7. Then Go to filter - Artistic - Dry Brush > Brush size = 3, Brush

Detail =8, Texture = 1 then click ok.

step 8

8. Now change the layer 1 blending mode to overlay, then press Ctrl+E

to merge background layer and layer 1.

step 9

9. Create the another new file, the size is 100x60 pixels and 72dpi.

step 10

10. Now press the D key on your keyboard to set the default colours.
And zoom the layer with 200%.

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:27:00.000-07:00

step 11

11. Select the "Pencil Tool" in the Tools Panel, and set the pencil

with "Hard Round 1 pixel". Then Draw the lines on the edges, like

figure below.

step 12

12. Go to Edit - Define Pattern, it's would be pop out the dialog box

and type "Pattern 1", then click ok.

step 13

13. Back to previous file, select the layer and choose the "Paint

Bucket Tool, the setting would like the figure below:

step 14

14. Go to the Channels panel, create the new Alpha 1 layer, then fill

the layer with pattern 1.

step 15

15. Go back to the Layers panel, and Go to Filter - Render - Lighting

Effect, the setting would see the figure below:

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:26:00.002-07:00

step 16

16. Go to Image - Adjustmenst- Curves, the setting would see the figure

below:

step 17

17. Then Go to the Channels panel, choose Alpha 1 and hold Ctrl click,

then the layer pattern it would be selected, go back to the Layers

panel, choose the layer. Note: Don't deselect (Ctrl +D) this selection.

step 18

18. Go to Filter - Brush Strokes - Spatter > Spray Radius = 6,

Smoothness = 15, then click ok.

step 19

19. Go to Filter - Blur - Gaussian Blur > 0.5 pixels, then click ok.

Press Ctrl + D deselect.

step 20

20. Duplicate the background layer (Ctrl + J), the second layer is

layer 1. Go to Filter - Render - Lighting Effect, the setting would see

the figure below:

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:26:00.001-07:00

step 21

21. Go to Image - Adjustmenst- Curves, the setting would see the figure

below, then change the layer 1 blending mode to overlay.

step 22

22. Create the new layer on the top layer, fill with white colo. Go to

Filter - Noise - Add Noise and the setting would see the figure below:

step 23

23. Go to Filter - Sketch - Note Paper > Image Balance = 25, Graininess

= 10, Relief = 5, then click ok.

step 24

24. Go to Filter - Blur - Motion Blur > Angle = 0, Distance = 10

pixels, then click ok.

step 25

25. Then change this layer blending mode to Overlay

Blue Brick Wall Effect

2008-09-08T01:25:00.000-07:00

step 26

26. Go to Image - Adjustmenst- Curves, the setting would see the figure

below,

step 27

27. The Final effect.

Show us how you interpreted this tutorial in the
practice contest!

2008-09-08T00:04:00.000-07:00

For this tutorial is required basic knowledge of the Pen tool. If you need any help with this, see my tutorial Pen tool.

Discuss this tutorial on our forum!

First, you’ll have to separate the object from the rest of the image. To do that, use the Pen tool. Before you start, check to see if Paths and Add to path area (+) are selected in options.

Create a path around your object.

Sometimes, you have to make two or more selections to finally select the object and not the unnecessary space somewhere in the object (like this space shown on image below). Make a path around outer rim, then switch to Subtract from path area (-) in Pen tool options and make a path(s) around part(s) that don’t belong in final selection. Go to the Path palette and click on Load path as a selection. After that, right click on a selection and choose Delete Path.

Go to Edit / Copy (or press ctrl+C on keyboard) and then open a new document (File / New…). Values in Width and Height are taken from dimensions of copied image from clipboard, so we need some extra space since we don’t need “boxed-in” image. Set higher values just in case. It’s easy to crop the image later if needed.

Go to Edit / Paste (or press ctrl+V on keyboard). Desaturate the object (Image / Adjustments / Desaturate or ctrl+shift+U).

Now go to Filter / Blur / Smart Blur… Set Quality on High and Mode on Edge Only. Radius and Threshold are individual for every picture so it’s up to you to find what the best for your picture is. I’ve used these values.

Invert the image (Image / Adjustments / Invert or ctrl+I).

Go to Edit / Stroke… Set Width as you see the best for your picture, select color and set Location on Inside. You don’t need to modify other options.

Picture that looks like technical sketch…

ALABASTER TEXTURE photoshop tutorial

2008-09-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

Step 1

Create a new document (File -> New).
Set your foreground color to #fbfff7 and background color to #9fa7a1.
Select the Gradient Tool (Linear Gradient) by hitting G on the keyboard (or Shift + G if the paint bucket is selected). Make sure your "gradient tool options" box is open (Window->Options or double click on the gradient tool).
Click on the Gradient to bring up the Gradient Editor. Select the gradient called Foreground to Background which should be in your presets list.
At the bottom of the editor lies an image of the gradient that acts as a preview of the changes you made to your gradient. Now click below the strip to create another Color Stop in the middle of the gradient and set the color to #e4dbc8.
Draw a gradient from the upper left corner towards the bottom right corner as demonstrated in the image bellow.

Step 2

Apply Filter -> Distort -> Twirl; and use an Angle of about 100.

Step 3

Open a stone texture image and drag it over to the scene canvas.
Move the texcture layer ontop of the current layer. Set the layer opacity to 8%.

The finished result:

Applied texture:

Creating Tiger Skin Text

2008-09-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

Create new document.

Set foreground & background colors as in image.

Create new layer and apply clouds filter to this layer (Filter > Render > Clouds).

Apply photocopy filter to same layer (Filer > Sketch > Photocopy) using these settings.

Apply Smudge Stick filter to same layer (Filter > Artistic > Smudge Stick) using these settings.

Now Add Noise filter to same layer (Filter > Noise > Add Noise) using these settings.

Apply Motion Blur filter to same layer (Filter > Blur > Motion Blur) using these settings.

Now write a text “T”.

Layer arrangement

Create “Clipping Mask” Press “Alt” key and click middle of both layers. Or right click on top layer and choose “Create Clipping Mask”.

Create New Layer under the text layer.

Select the “Brush Tool” and press “F5” choose “Brush Preset” as in image. In Brush Presets click on “Color Dynamics” set as in image.Create hair around the text using brush with small diameter on layer 2.

Final Output.

Apply Textures

2008-09-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

STEP 1: Open a photo to apply a new texture. We choose this one:

STEP 2: Now open the image that you want to apply:

Press Ctrl + A (Select All), and copy the image (Ctrl + C). Go to the original photo and paste the texture (Ctrl + V).
You will have the photo as Background, and the texture as Layer 1.

STEP 3: Hide the texture

and select the Lasso Tool (L). Draw a selection to select approximately the area that you want to cover:

STEP 4: Invert the selection (Select -> Inverse or Ctrl + Shift + I). Turn visible the texture layer again, and select it.
Press DEL key to erase the selection:

STEP 5: Double click on texture layer to open Blending options. At the bottom, move the sliders to set the blending values of texture layer and underlying layer. We use this values:

STEP 6: Once you had the final values, select Eraser Tool (E) and erase the remaining dots and imperfections.
Erase the details that you want to keep untexturized.

STEP 7: Set the Opacity to 65 - 75 %

Final result

Backdrop Design

2008-09-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

Backdrop Design.

Step one:

Start with a large white canvas, in your layers window make a new layer set and name it Backdrop Design. Create a new layer and draw a 4763 x 164 pixels, #BDBDBD colored rectangle.

Step two:

With your rectangle layer from step one add the following layer styles:

Step three:

In a new layer draw a 20 x 16 pixels, black rectangle on the top corner of your rectangle. Now cut the rectangle in slant like you see on the picture below.

Step four:

Using your Zoom tool, zoom on the corner design and cut in a slant like you see on the picture below.

Step five:

With your corner design layer add the following layer styles:

Step six:

Now add the same corner design on the other corners of the rectangle. Make a marquee selection around the corner design then go to Edit > Copy Merged and back to Edit > Paste. Rotate the copy through Edit > Transform > Flip Horizontal.

Step seven:

Add the rest of the corner design and your done.

Final:

Backdrop Design.

Create Unlimited Patterns

2008-09-07T22:22:00.000-07:00

You may have overlooked patterns yourself like I used to. I've realized that creating patterns not only gives you more customization and pride in Photoshop but it's the main secret behind creating unlimited layer styles. When looking to create new patterns, look for primarily for textures and patterns. Here are some of my photos from my photos.com collection.

I like to look for different shades of a same color within a photo.

Here are some other examples where you could extract good patterns from.

From experience, these two images turned out to produce a whole range of great patterns so I will be using one of them for this tutorial.

Select your image to open it.

These two are great images to get patterns from. You can also get them on photos.com if you have a paid account; I just can't redistribute them but they are great examples. Try to start with a high resolution to get higher quality.

Go to Filter: Pattern Maker. I don't memorize shortcuts for 'all' of the possible options.

Here we have the image in the Pattern Maker. Just take your marquee selection tool to find an area you think would make a great pattern.

I recommend to raise the Sample Detail up to have higher resolution in your pattern. This will make a difference but will take up more processing power and will take longer to render.

Click generate to create a new pattern.

Then you will see what it ends up like. In this case we generated the default 128 X 128 tile size off of the original sample.

In the tile history go ahead and click the disk icon to save your pattern if you're happy with it.

I like to give them official names to raise the value of them.

To make another Pattern go to Show: Original

Now you can drag your selection area to a different part of the image. I'm looking for areas of good or interesting texture.

Then just press Generate Again.

You can always press it again to get an even more processed version of your pattern.

The process is pretty simple as you can see. The objective is to get great looking textures and patterns. The possibilities are limitless and it's hard to predict what you'll end up with sometimes.

An image like this one has plenty of possibilities for new pattern ideas.

I'll just name them something that I think it represents or the first concept that comes to my mind. I encourage this because it inspires your creativity to keep working.

That was a nice looking pattern.

By changing the size of tile generation in the preview box you'll get a larger size generation.

With a larger sample detail and tile size it's going to take longer to generate but you'll have max resolution. Remember from there you can always go down in file size.

It's hard to predict exactly what you'll get..this is a really cool basketweave result. The best thing is just to start with great subject matter to get great results like this.

Naming..

You can just bring up an image in the Pattern Maker just to generate patterns without applying it to the image - press Cancel not to apply the current pattern.

Now we can go to our Pattern Fill Layer on the layers palette.

Here you can see the latest patterns that were generated. Click on different patterns to choose a different pattern fill.

On your windows here you'll find a little flyout menu button. If you press that you'll bring up more pattern options.

We can also bring up the Preset Manager from here.

You can choose Patterns from the preset manager.

You'll want to officially back up your new patterns after you've created a new set. Why? Well, if you're a PC user (from experience) it may go ahead and delete your latest work. To back up you'll 'select' your latest patterns.

Click on the latest pattern at the bottom and press Shift and click on the last pattern. This will select all of the latest ones.

Now go to Save Set.

Then you can name your new set.

Now if you just want to add your new patterns to a previously made set, use the same process to select the new ones and the old ones.

Hold Shift to click the first and last to select them all.

Then Save Set.

Now click on the set you want to override or add these to.

When it asks you to replace them say yes. This will not delete your previous patterns, it will add the new ones to the old ones as long as you selected the ones that were already here.

So I've just taken our new patterns and added them to the full set.

Then press Done on the Preset Manager.

Once you have your patterns saved in a .pat set I recommend to back them up on an external hard drive. It will be stored in your Presets\Patterns folder. You can even Reset Patterns and you'll be ok.

You can press OK to replace with the Default.

Then go to the little flyout menu.

Go to Load Patterns.

Then you can bring in the same set you just saved or a different one if it's there.

It will load those patterns from your Preset folder.

The important thing to remember about Patterns is that they're underrated. Find some images with good textures and you can start creating your own unique patterns and textures to use as backgrounds, fills, textures and for poweruse in creating unlimited layer styles. Start with some good images and create your own Patterns. Get beyond the (boring) default ones in Photoshop to create some great design elements!

Photochrom Vintage Postcard

2008-09-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Turn your travel photos into vintage postcards. This effect is based on old photochrom photos, like the one shown in the About Photochroms section of this lesson. This technique works best on colorful photos that have good contrast and lots of detail, especially architectural detail. For best results:

If necessary, adjust the color tone and contrast of your photo before you begin.
If you have dull, washed-out skies, colorize the sky to add some blue before you begin.

Before	After

To create a vintage postcard:

Open the image you want to use for the postcard.
Duplicate the image on a new layer and apply a blending mode to the duplicate image:
1. Press Ctrl+J to duplicate the image on a new layer above the background layer.
2. In the Layers Palette, select the Color Dodge blend mode.
3. At the top right of the Layers palette, reduce the layer Opacity to 65%. The image should look similar to the following:
Add a Photo Filter adjustment layer above the duplicate layer:
1. In the Layers Palette, click the New Adjustment layer icon and select Photo Filter.
2. In the Photo Filter window, select the Sepia filter from the drop-down list.
3. Uncheck Preserve Luminosity.
4. Reduce the Density to 50%.
5. Click OK.
On the Photo Filter adjustment layer, add a blending mode and adjust opacity:
1. Select the Multiply blending mode.
2. At the top right of the Layers palette, reduce the layer Opacity to 50%
On the same Photo Filter adjustment layer, add a Photographic Effects layer style:
1. From the Windows menu, select Effects to open the Effects palette.
2. In the Effects palette, click the Layer Styles icon, then select Photographic Effects from the drop-down list.
3. Select the Orange Gradient effect.
4. Click Apply.
Create a new Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer above the Photo Filter layer. In the Brightness/Contrast window, adjust the contrast to +20 and click OK. Do not change any other settings.
Create a new Hue/Saturation adjustment layer above the Photo Filter layer. In the Hue/Saturation window, adjust the saturation to +20 and click OK. Do not change any other settings.

Your Layers palette should look something like this when completed:

About Photochroms

According to the American Photochrom Archive Gallery:

"A Photochrom is a color photo lithograph, produced from a black-and-white negative. The final prints were created using different color impressions from multiple lithographic stones."

This photographic technique became very popular in the 1890's, especially when the Post Office introduced the penny postcard.

The inspiration for this effect is shown below:

Photochrom photo from the Library of Congress where you can find many public domain images and images you can use for personal projects. Search for "photochrom Eiffel."

Example

Here is another example of this effect applied to a contemporary Paris photo:

Before	After

How to Create a Digital Photo Collage Photoshop Training

2008-09-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

The most popular tutorials I have on this site are usually something to do with playing around with photographs. People just seem to like to tweek their photos into something new. I was playing around with a some pictures of my kids the other day and was trying to create a new background for my computer. As it turned out I came up with a collage type image that I thought looked cool, so I decided to share.

There are a lot of different ways to do a collage. You could do a whole bunch of different sized images here and there. I decided to go with a more uniform type of look. I am going to use 3 images that are all the same size. I have found for this project, making the width of your individual photos about 55% of the width of the document seems to work well. For example, if you are creating 1024x768 image, you would want the width of your 3 photos around 550 pixels. This is not set in stone and you can certainly play with these numbers to get the right feel for your collage. The resolution for all of my images is set to 72 pixels/inch for viewing on a computer monitor. If you were planning on printing this, you would want to increase that to 150 pixels/inch or higher.

Open a new ducument of whatever size you would like to make your collage. For this tutorial I am making mine 600x400. Resize your images accordingly (Image/Image Size), and then drag them into your collage document with the move tool. Now you should have a background layer and three layers for your 3 pictures.

Fill your background with whichever color you like. I am going to put a white border around the pictures which you will not be able to see if you leave the background white. I am filling with a radial gradient of a light yellow to bright yellow.

Next, make sure each of your photo layers are lined up on top of each other. We are going to create a rounded corner effect, and if they are all in the same place we will only have to select once. This will also give each of the photos the same effect.

Once you have them all lined up (you should only be able to see the top layer), select the Rounded Rectangle Tool and set the radius to 10 Px. Make sure your top layer is highlighted in the layers palette. Make a selection as shown below.

Right click in the middle of the picture and choose "Make Selection". Set the feather radius to 5 pixels and click ok. You should now see the "dancing ants" indicating it is a selection. Choose Select/Inverse from the menu bar and hit delete. You should now have something that looks like this.

Now highlight the next layer down and hit delete. Do this one more time on your bottom picture layer (not the background). Hit Control+D to deselect. Now you can move thes pictures around to see how they look.

Highlight the top layer again and select Layer/Layer Style/Blending Options. This should open the Blending Options window. I am going to add a stroke and a drop shadow. Here are the settings I used.

And here is the result. Do the same thing to your other picture layers.

Now I am going to move them around a bit, and rotate a couple of them. Move one pictue to the upper left corner. Now select Edit/Transform/Rotate. Grab one of the handles that appear and rotate the picture a little to the left. Hit enter to commit the transformation.

Do another picture in the upper right corner and then one in the middle on the bottom. Play around with it a bit until you get exactly what you are looking for. Here is my finished collage.

Clean Background

2008-09-07T00:10:00.000-07:00

Camouflage Paint Tutorial

2008-09-06T23:55:00.000-07:00

Ever wanted jungle camo on your car/favourite object? I figured out this really neat (and easy way) to get about it while i was converting an AMG merc into a gun platform (WIP). First thing, some ground rules, the car/object has to to dark, the tut only works with that so if you’re chopping cars, if it ain’t a black/near black car, desaturate, darken it, then try this

I’m using the same car i’m working on for this tutorial.

First off, get this brush, it’s a cloud brush set, but it’s exactly what you need for this tutorial. I’d link to the owner, but i can’t find him, and netiher do i remember where i got it from, so s0ks, props to you for this brush set.

First off, load the brush, if you don’t know how to:

1] Open the brush tool
2] Click the down arrow next to the brush selection
3] Click the right arrow on the upper right and select Load Brushes
4] Load the s0ks

Note: it’s good to keep a constant copy of the brushes you use in a set folder, so you can know whats loaded, something which i fumbled :\

Okay, after you’ve loaded the brushes, make a new layer and select the second brush, the one that’s size 128. Load these colours (or something similar) into the foreground and background (doesn’t matter which): #E5D213 and #2F9B00 (you can make the green lighter if you want)

Should look like this:

Now, make the green colour the foreground, and colour using that brush all over the body of the car, just get it all in, you can cut it later (if you’re chopping, you probably already rendered it). Next, change the layer blending mode to Soft Light.

Note: Include the grille in the colouring, it’s always good to have camo paint all over the body, and the grille adds to the army effect.

Then, on the SAME layer (make a backup layer of the all green, you might not want to redo it), change the tan colour to foreground and draw some lines across the body at an angle, in one way and some random blotches along the top, just make slightly lengthwise blotches and make sure they don’t come near each other. Now change the layer to Normal to get a better view of the next step.

Go to the Filter Gallery and under Artistic, select Cut Out and use these settings:

Result:

Now change it back to Soft Light.

Now it looks awesome doesn’t it? Now all you have left is to use a layer mask or the polygonal lasso tool on the paint (ie remove the bits you don’t want and leave the rest) leaving only the body coloured, and voila!

This is the one i’m using atm on my WIP, I added the paint to the rims cos it just looks good to me, don’t forget to play around with this tut’s settings, there are many possibilities:

End note: I left out a lil portion on the front bumper in the sample, don’t make that mistake :p Enjoy!

Realistic water running on tap

2008-09-06T23:52:00.000-07:00

Description: Through this tutorial, we will learn how to use a combination of photoshop filters to create a realistic effect of water running from a tap.
Requires Photoshop CS2 or later

	Let's start with a new document 500x500 pixels Press "D" to reset your color palletes to black and white. Create a new layer, then apply the following filter: Filter->Render->Clouds
	Apply: Filter->Blur->Gaussian Blur Set: 6 Apply: Filter->Blur->Motion Blur Set: Angle: 90, Distance: 80
	Now go to Image->Image Size Set: width: 300pixels (UNTICK the "Constrain Proportions" option ) then click ok. So now your document should be 300 width and 500 high.
	Next, go to Filter->Artistic->Plastic Wrap Set: Highlight Strength: 15, Detail:10, Smoothness:10 Apply Filter->Sketch->Chrome Set: Detail:0, Smoothness: 8
	Go to Edit->Fade Chrome Set: Opacity:100%, Mode: Hard Light
	Now go to Image->Image Size Set: height:800 pixels, leave all other settings, and make sure the "Constrain Proportions" is NOT checked.
	Now go to Edit->Transform->Warp Move the anchors around, inward, up and down, just play with it to shape it like running water.
	Now, just add some gradient color to the background layer, and change it's water layer's blending mode to "Hard Light"

Here is an image I made, simply by adding the above water's layer to a picture of a tap. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PSD FILE

Add color by clever saturation

2008-09-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

1. Open your image and copy the background layer.

2. Change image mode to Lab (Image > Mode > Lab) without flattening it.
3. Go to Image > Adjustment > Curves and increase the contrast in a and b channels (some times a is enough).

4. Change mode back to rgb (Image > Mode > rgb).
5. Add layer mask to the top layer and change layer Blending mode to Difference. The light parts of the image are showing the greatest difference between the background and the adjusted layers.

6. Go to Image > Apply Image. The different parts will be reflected as black and grey areas of the mask.

7. Return blending mode to Normal.
8. Staying in the layer mask use Image > Adjustment > Auto Levels (or Shift + Ctrl + l) on the mask to intensify the contrast. The too bright and unnaturally looking areas of the top layer are now subdued.

9. Duplicate the Background layer again, bring it to the top, and going to Image > Adjustment > Hue/Saturation increase Saturation of the image.

10. Add layer mask to the just saturated layer at the top. It's time now to compare the two layers saturated in different way. Staying in the mask paint the parts you think look better in the Curves layer with the soft brash to reveal them.
Compare you final result with the source image:

Original

Result