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Gradients and ScrapSimple Paper Templates
In Part 2, we are going to learn how to use gradients with the ScrapSimple Paper Templates to create beautiful papers for your layouts. The effects you can get are amazing, and limited only by your imagination.
Again, I will be using Photoshop CS in this tutorial, but the gradients work the same way in PSE.
Figure 1
First, create a new 12x12 file at 300 dpi. Then, open up your choice of ScrapSimple Paper Template. I will be using one from the Textiles Paper Templates (Figure 1).
Figure 2
Drag the Paper Template over to your new file and move into place (Figure 2).
Figure 3
Fill the background of your file with the color of your choice. I chose a dark blue (Figure 3).
Figure 4
Open the Gradient Editor and choose the gradient you want to use, either one of the preset gradients, or a custom gradient you create yourself. I created one going from dark green to pink to burgundy (Figure 4).
Figure 5
Once you have chosen your gradient, click "OK" on the Gradient Editor, then create a new layer on your document. Click and drag the cursor across that layer to apply the gradient (Figure 5).
Figure 6
Create a clipping mask on the Paper Template by hitting Ctrl+G (Figure 6).
Isn't that beautiful! And so easy!
Now, let's do some more things to this paper to give it even more depth and texture, by using brushes.
Figure 7
First, create a new layer. In Photoshop CS, when the new layer dialog box comes up, you have the option of choosing to create a clipping mask with the previous layer. Check this box and then click "OK" (Figure 7).
Figure 8
Now we're going to use a brush on this layer. I used a grunged up diamond brush I created from the Diamond Custom Shapes. I stamped all over that layer, and since it was already a Clipping Mask, the stamping only appeared in the colored flower shapes. I then changed the Blend Mode on this layer to "Soft Light," to give a variety of shades to my diamonds (Figure 8).
Figure 9
Now I'm going to do the same thing, only with a text brush this time. So create another layer, again checking the box to make it a Clipping Mask. Then choose a text brush. I used the Script Brush from the Text Brush Set. Stamp all over your new layer, and change the Blend Mode to "Difference" (Figure 9).
Here is the finished paper.
Layout by Jan Hicks
Tutorial by Jan Hicks
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