Intro to Photoshop Basics Part II (Continuation)

[E.r.o.s]

Continuation of Basics II (LAYERS)

 

Now that you know about layers and how to create one, lets talk about the different kinds of layers and how to use them. First of all lets talk about the fill layers. These are solid color layer, gradient layer, and pattern layer. I will show you how to use this layers now.

Solid color layer: This layer allow for the creation of a layer with a solid color (red, white, ect. any color you choose)

Gradient layer: This will allow you to create a layer with a new gradient (a combination of colors)

Pattern layer: There is a special layer called patterns. Patterns can be downloaded or created. You can then use these patterns you acquire to fill in different shapes. You will learn more about patterns later on with Tetsu.

 

How to use these layers?

 

This layers are important because they allow you to "fill in" any shape you have already made. Let me explain it visually:

 

Lets say I make a circle in one of my layers. Like this:

 

 

Well, now you want to change the color of the circle cuz you don't like it. We will create a new "gradient layer" (You can use either of the other layers as well) to give the circle a new gradient. We will do this by Clicking on Layer > Then on New Fill Layer > Then on Gradient....

 

 

After you have followed those steps, you will click on use previous layers to create clipping mask, then click "ok". Now you will be able to choose your gradient, and the direction of your gradient (you change the direction by clicking on the circle with the radius line). Then click on "OK", and the circle will have the new gradient.

 

 

 

 

You will notice a new layer appears on your layer panel. It says "Gradient Fill 1". This layer is a clipping layer(showed by the small arrow next to it). I will explain about clipping layers/masks in a moment.

 

I will continue this tutorial in another discussion...