This tutorial was by Bec, previously from faketheway.org and was used by permission.

1. Open a new image in Paint Shop Pro (Crtl+N).

2. Select a chunky font because results are best seen with these type of fonts rather than thin ones like Arial, etc. I'd suggest downloading Forte or Casual from dafont.com. For this example, I've chosen the font Forte.

3. I've written the letters "ftw" but you can write whatever you want. For the font color, I'd suggest a gradient between two pastel colours but one being darker than the other or, just go with one solid color. I've used the gradient #91E1F5 and #F9F065. Experiment, it's up to you.

4. Convert the vector layer containing your text into a raster layer, by right clicking and selecting "Convert to Raster Layer"


(click to enlarge)

5. Now go to your selection tool, select "Magic Wand". Click on the raster layer of your text and you should have a marquee (dotted lines) around your selection. However, the text actually isn't the one selected, it's the white space. To correctly select your text, just invert your selection (Ctrl+Shift+I) or going to the Selection menu >

6. Duplicate your current layer.

7. Go to the menu at the top, and select Effects > 3D Effects > Inner Bevel and set your properties to mine. Once you get the hang of things, you can go ahead and experiment with the properties.



8. After you hit ok on the Inner Bevel, you should be able to see the results. However, you're not done yet. On the duplicated layer, set the layer's blend mode to Soft Light. Then, duplicated another layer after that with the blend mode also set to Soft Light.



9. Should turn out like this. I like to use this effect when making glitters - feel free to try that out, if you want.



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