The Gradient Tool 1. What is the Gradient tool? The gradient tool creates a gradual blending between two or more colors. A gradient can vary from smooth changes between color values to harsh noticeable edges. They can vary in shape from a linear gradient to others in circular, diamond, or line shapes. You can use gradients for so many purposes in Adobe Photoshop which makes it one of the essential tools. The gradient tool is a powerful tool that can fade your photos’ edges, apply colors, or even adjust your layer masks. 2. The Gradient Tool A. The Gradient tool is located under the same menu as the paint bucket. B. Once you click on the Gradient Tool, you will see the following at the top. The first box shows the colors choosen (orange to transparent box in this image) and the type of gradient (linear in this image) 3. Types of Gradients Linear Gradient Linear gradients allow color to transition in a straight line from one point to another. Radial Gradient Radial gradients create a more circular transition; the starting point begins the radial shape and shades into the end point. Angle Gradient The start and end points in an angle gradient dictate the angled line seen below. The two colors then blend in a clockwise motion from the start color to the end color around the dictated angle. Reflected Gradient The reflected gradient resembles a reflection, in that it creates a mirrored effect with the end point color located on both sides of the starting point color. Diamond Gradient As the name mentions, this gradient creates a diamond shape. The starting point begins the diamond trajectory, transitioning into the end point. 4. The Gradient Editor To access the Gradient Editor, click on the gradient fill box (I do this on a new layer- the Orange to transparent box in this image) Now you will see this with a variety of pre-set options 5. Play around with the Gradient Tool A. To use the Gradient tool, click and drag on your layer. A short click and drag will give you a tighter transition A long click and drag will give you a smoother, longer transition B. To change the colors of the gradient, if you don't like the presets, click on the little box under one end of the the gradient and choose a different color (and repeat for the other end) NOTE: Try out all of the types of gradients and change up the colors. Blending Scrapbook Papers with Photoshop Layer Masks Blending scrapbook papers is easy using Photoshop’s Layer Masks. 1. Open one of the background papers and then simply place the 2nd paper on top of the first. 2. Add a layer mask to the 2nd one. Layer masks only work in black and white, so be sure to set your colors to that before you start your blend. Black hides things and white shows or reveals things. You can also use a black to transparent blend or shades of grey. 3. Select the gradient tool, making sure that you are working with Black to White or White to Black 4. Click and drag from one side of the image to the other, revealing the parts of the paper you want to show.
related Affinity tutorials https://the-lilypad.com/forum/threads/affinity-tutorial-gradient-colouring-of-stamps-brushes.75474/ https://the-lilypad.com/forum/threa...of-2-papers-with-the-transparency-tool.77088/
