Lucky Tattoo...Just for The Faux Of It!

Here's a little bit of photoshop fun for you! Have you ever wanted to explore your "wild" side and thought about getting a tattoo? Well, if you don't dare to go under the needle you can always give yourself a faux tattoo using photoshop. Before we get started let me clarify....NO, that is not my belly!

The process is simple.

Step 1. Select an image (with some skin showing) and open it up in Photoshop.

Step 2. Select a graphic that will work as a tattoo, and place it on a different layer in the same document as your photo. If your image has a white background change the blending mode to "Multiply" this is found in the "Layers Palette" this will eliminate the background.

TIP: There are many images available for personal use on the internet. (It is best to find a graphic with crisp clean lines.) For my image, I created a simple "Lucky" tattoo.

Step 3. Position and re-size your tattoo as desired. Using the "Move Tool" hold down the shift key and drag the corners.

Step 4. In the "Layers Palette" decrease the opacity to around 85%, and change the blending mode to "Overlay". This will allow some of the skin's texture to show through and give a more realistic look.

Step 5. Use the "Blur" tool over the tattoo to give it a slightly aged appearance.

Step 6. Save the image as a .jpg or .png., and you're done!

Give it a try, it may take a little practice but once you get the hang of it. It's easy! I have attached a copy of the tattoo for your enjoyment. Simply right click the image and save. If you don't want to use it as a tattoo you can always use the file as a digi-stamp or title on a digi-layout. Thanks for reading!

So Lucky to be National Craft Month!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! Not only do we get to celebrate this month with green, shamrocks, and gold...it's also National Craft Month! What better reason to "get your craft on!" Well, I wish to bring you a bit o'both! You may have seen these all over the internet...cupcake toppers! They are cute and make for great accents to not only cupcakes, but also as little tags and notes And they are super easy to make!!!
So first gather your materials:

• punches-various sizes
• paper-in whatever shade catches your fancy-I'm using purple and green
• stamp ink and soft sponge-for inking the edges-gives it and extra "umph!
• glue-for the layers
• computer-if you are going to print your design instead of using stickers or traditional embellishments.I used the awesome digital buttons created by one of our very own SOC artists, Aysha!!!-you can find the post for them here!
• ribbon-for an extra touch if using as a tag
• toothpicks-if using as a topper
• love-just your love of making things!

Assemble:

-print or make your design

-punch out your paper

-arrange first how the layers will appear-I like to make sure the back is also decorated

-now edge your papers in the ink color of choice with your sponge-this really sets off the piece!

-glue one side, then adhere toothpick if making a topper


-glue next set then glue on top of first set

-if making a tag-punch hole on top and add ribbon.

-be sure to give them away and delight in the look on their faces! It also helps to have the cupcake!


-Remember that you can make these for any occasion and they make a fun lasting impression. And trust me, everyone will marvel in what you created!!


Don't forget to check out SOC's premiere issue-it's free to subscribe! It is packed with creative greatness that will light your creative sparks!  And also check out our sponsors this month:

Apron Strings Kit Club http://www.apronstringsdesigns.com/

The Treasure Box Club http://www.thetreasureboxclub.com/Home.html

Create n Crop http://www.createncropevents.com/

May luck be with you! Happy St. Patty's Day!!! And Happy National Crafting Month!!!


ONE MORE REMINDER!-------Join us for our Blog Hop HERE that starts tomorrow!!!!!!! Lot's of lucky treats in store!!!!