Hot Air Balloon Tutorial - page 2

Step 3: Outlining the envelope segments

Create a new, empty raster layer directly below each of the existing layers, as shown in Fig. 4. Use the naming convention illustrated.

Starting with the right 1 outline layer at the bottom, follow the next procedure for each of the outline layers:

Load the selection that corresponds to the layer. Expand the selection by 1 pixel, and flood fill it with black. You'll notice outlines appearing behind each of the gradient-filled layers, as shown. Fig. 5 shows the marquee, or "marching ants," around layer left 4, which has been expanded but not yet filled in.

Note 1: Do not be tempted to merge any of the layers at this point.
Note 2: Don't be concerned about the unevenness at the bottom of the envelope. This will be covered by the skirt.

Deselect before starting the next step.

 Fig. 4: Outline layers  Fig. 5: Outlines


Step 4: 3-D effect for the envelope

Note: To use the PSP effects, go to the menu: Selections > Select All > Float > Defloat for each gradient-filled layer. Or use these keyboard shortcuts: Ctrl-A (select all), Ctrl-F (float), Ctrl-Shift-A (defloat). Or, load the selection from your hard drive or the alpha channel, if you've saved it there, and float and defloat it.

Experiment with the settings to achieve the effect you like best. There are some additional ideas at the end of this tutorial.
In PSP 7, apply outer bevel effect to each of the gradient-filled layers.

Float and defloat the selection. Go to Effects > 3D Effects > Outer Bevel. Use the following settings:

Bevel shape = Bevel shape
Width = 7
Smoothness = 75
Depth = 12
Ambience = 29
Shininess = 71
Color = #FEFEE8
Angle = 146
Intensity = 30
Elevation = 33

Deselect before starting the next step.

 Fig. 6a: PSP 7's outer bevel effect
In PSP 8, apply inner bevel effect to each of the gradient-filled layers.

Float and defloat the selection. Go to Effects > 3D Effects > Inner Bevel. Use the following settings:

Bevel shape = Bevel shape
Width = 7
Smoothness = 75
Depth = 6
Ambience = 37
Shininess = 66
Color = White (#000000)
Angle = 146
Intensity = 27
Elevation = 33

Deselect before starting the next step.

 Fig. 6b: PSP 8's inner bevel effect
Or, apply Eye Candy 3's glass effect to each of the gradient-filled layers, using these settings:
Bevel width = 13
Bevel Shape = Flat
Flaw Spacing = 26
Flaw Thickness = 30
Opacity = 40
Refraction = 5
Color = White (#000000)
Highlight Brightness = 20
Highlight Sharpness = 0
Lighting Direction = 134
Lighting Inclination = 75

If you used selections with Eye Candy, deselect before starting the next step.

 Fig. 6b: Eye Candy 3 glass effect

If you're satisfied with your results to this point, go ahead and merge the layers.

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