My new blog

I didn't think I would ever join the blog craze, but here I am. This is going to be somewhat of an eclectic blog. I'm not sure how personal it will get or exactly what will be discussed. My thoughts so far are mom stuff, photoshop elements fun, products I like or new things I've tried. I've called it One Smile at a Time because that is what my life is like. I never know what is going to happen next, but if I can get through it one smile at a time...

I thought it would be fun to do a short tutorial for Photoshop Elements as an ice breaker (for myself).

Clipping masks are fun and easy to do. What is a clipping mask? Lets say that you want your type layer or a shape to match other elements on the page. Maybe you wish to have them filled with a particular paper/pattern. An easy way to do this is by using a clipping mask.

First, open a new document. Type "happy birthday" or your name on a new layer. It doesn't matter what color the type is. Next add a shape to a new layer. Merge the type and shape layer - shift and click on the two layers (highlights them) and then Ctrl+E (merges highlighted layers).

Now add a patterned paper on a new layer (above your newly merged layer). Holding down the Alt key, position your pointer in between the paper layer and your merged layer (layers palette), you will see two intersecting circles, click. The top layer (patterned paper) should have moved a bit to the right and you should now be able to see the clipping mask.

Did this tutorial make sense? Leave me feedback. If you didn't understand something, let me know and I'll try to clarify!