A combination of effects on the same image produces some interesting
results. Make your selection, invert it, and test to your hearts
content. If you don't care for the effect, CTRL + Z will undo it
quickly enough and you're on to the next effect. Don't be shy, pile
those effects on top of each other!
original image
Selection Feather=30
Geometric > Twirl
Fine Leather
Geometric Twirl
Fine Leather
Illumination > Sunburst
You've got the power! Your shield is an inverted selection, your
sword a vast array of built-in effects. Go forth and bend,
spindle and mutilate!