Making Backgrounds using Brushes in PSP

[al...@softwareoriginally.com]

Introduction This tutorial shows you how to make nice backgrounds using Paint Shop Pro using brushes. The basic concepts of using an alpha channel to separate an image from the blank background, using multiple layers, and varying opacities and layer effects to add interest to the final image apply in Photoshop as well though the steps are a little different.

Step 1 - Preparation

Save your Poser or D|S render as a .psd or .tif file then open it up in PSP. Use the Alpha Channel to remove the background.

Step 2 - Getting Started

Add a new layer, name it background and flood fill it with a color that compliments your render. I usually use a light color but you can choose a dark color if you would like.

Step 3 - Arranging

Move the flood filled layer to the bottom -Menu: Layers/Arrange/Send to Bottom. Add a new layer above this one name it Brushes 1. Make sure the new layer is selected.

Step 4 - Adding Brushes

Select your Paint Brush. Choice a brush that you would like to use on your background. This can be hearts, stars - anything you would like that compliments your image. (The brushes will vary depending on what you have loaded in Paint Shop Pro.) For my first brush I have choosen one that is an star shape. You also want to either darken the color that you used for your background or choose another color. Stamp this on your background where you would like it to appear. Don't forget you can also adjust your layer's opacity to make the colors lighter or to blend in more.

Step 5 - Adding More Brushes

From here I just add various layers with different shaped brushes until I get something I like. Adjust the Opacity on different layers and brushes and experiment with different colors and effects. Don't forget, you can also use different Blend Modes for various effects. I ended with a total of 7 layers.

Step 6 - Adding Drop Shadow

I add a drop shadow to my render to make it stand out more.

Step 7 - Finishing Up

Last but not least I added a small border around the whole image to finish it up. http://softwarepowersite.com