Elements are simply extracted images saved as png files. If you need to know how to extract I have a tutorial page which I can post in this group so just let me know Cheers Mary
Jan 28, 2011

You can make shaped elements from Custom Shapes, or a brush in photoshop. Make your shape on a new layer, choose a background you would like it to be in and then use a clipping mask and then a drop shadow and you end up with a solid looking element. You can use all different shapes in this way and have them co-ordinated.
Hope I have explained this OK. Lesley x
Jan 29, 2011

Had another thought - If you have a scanner you can always use this. I just did some string and it turned out very well. If you put a coloured piece of paper over you item before you scan it, it makes it easier to extract,using a colour selector or magic wand. Lesley x
Jan 29, 2011

how do you save in order to keep them with out a background? I have tried saving as png, but still get a background.
Jan 29, 2011

I use photoshop CS2 and save my pages both as photoshop files (.psd) and a reduced jpeg for uploading. If I make an extraction that I think I will use again I save it as .psd.
Jan 29, 2011

I use photoshop CS2 and save my pages both as photoshop files (.psd) and a reduced jpeg for uploading. If I make an extraction that I think I will use again I save it as .psd.
You could easily get rid of the background though using a colour selector or magic wand or the equivilant in your programme.
Jan 29, 2011

I'll have to try this next time. Thanks
Jan 29, 2011

I usually save mine as png files (Luisa, make sure your program is set to have a transparent background upon save, otherwise it'll put one in whether you want it or not) for easier transportability into other programs. I've had a few occasions where the program I'm using won't recognize a psd file. Then again, I usually do my extractions within DSA2 or paint.net, not photoshop.
Jan 29, 2011

Nana Twice, elements can be anything - drawn shapes, extractions from pics, a wingding font converted to a shape. I have a font that's all kinds of pawprint shapes that I use a lot - I type the text that creates the paw shape I want, convert it to a bitmap, and then I have something I can play with recoloring, beveling, etc.
Jan 29, 2011

I Have added my instruction page for extraction in Paint.Net. The instructions are similar in most programs that have this capability.

Also found one on blending so added that too. Hope this helps.

Please don't hesitate to ask if you are struggling. Plenty of help here!
Jan 30, 2011

Thanks guys for the help. I think today I'll try to create on element
Jan 31, 2011

yea! Got one element done. Thanks to Mary and Sherry, all your info helped. My next step is creating one from scratch and not extracting.
Jan 31, 2011

Well done xoxoxo
Jan 31, 2011

Luisa, saw your b'fly - looks great!! I LOVE extracting, LOL!
Jan 31, 2011

Thanks to Shannonsnan, I created my first element from scratch. Now on to the next effect. What should I try now, hmmm
Feb 3, 2011

Hi. I have just joined your group as i am trying myself to make a few elements and pieces up as i go for freebies.. Awesome idea. I had never thought about the scanner before.. Must try that one..
I have just recently made my very first element, a flag banner. I would love to add to show you ladies. More than welcome to a copy on my blog. I just love these flag banners in a lot of the kids packs and by mistake, using IWARP in GIMP, on a cut triangle shape, it made the triangle look a little flowey, as in flowing in the breeze.. will upload to share with you all..
Feb 5, 2011

Hi Kate welcome to my group. That's a pretty cool mistake. Will look at it now. And thanks for sharing it.
Feb 5, 2011