Hot Wax Coating and Chisel

Hot Wax Coating

To get the desired effect for this example you'll need to work directly on the background. Working on a layer results in an entirely different effect.

Once your text is added to the canvas, do not de-select it. In order for the hot wax coating to show properly we'll need to expand the selection, [Selections > Modify > Expand], by 1 pixel.

The final result of the hot wax coating effect is based on the foreground color on the color palette. A lighter foreground color works best, darker colors coat the entire selection rather than forming an outline of the text. For the example I used the same color yellow as the original text.

To add a drop shadow you will need to modify the selection with a minus 1 pixel contraction, or end up with a small 'lip' around the text. The effect isn't unpleasant, just looks like a pre-formed plastic letter.

Chisel

Start with a new image, black background. Change the background color on the color palette to black. We'll be working on a layer rather than the background, so create a new layer now.

Using the Flood Fill tool, we need to add a woodgrain texture to the layer. Left click the popout arrow in the styles box, selecting the pattern button from the menu. Click inside of the foreground/stroke box to open the pattern dialog box. Select the Finished Wood pattern and adjust the Angle to suit your tastes. Click OK.

If you haven't activated the Flood Fill tool, put a check in the Lock box on the Color Palette. Locking the palette causes your settings to be retained between tools. In the unlocked position the palette settings return to their last setting each time you change tools.

Seems like a lot of work for a single click but once you're used to working with the new improved color palette in version 7 of PSP, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. Go ahead and click on your image now to apply the texture to layer 1.

Still working on layer 1, add your text. In the "Create As" box have Selection and Antialias checked. While the moving marquee still surrounds your text, position the cursor inside of the selection and drag it a few pixels to the right.

Now for the finishing touches. On the menu bar select [Effects > 3D Effects > Chisel]. In the Chisel Dialog box select transparent, and adjust the size to suit your needs. Smaller text will use a smaller chisel size. The transparent setting allows the underlying color to show through.

Sculptured Text
3D Text with PSP 7
Inner and Outer Bevel