newbie with dumb question

hi barbara,

generally speaking filters like the grunge look are 'EFFECT' filters, which do get applied directly to another image. they create an effect on that image in some manner.

pattern filters, mostly, are stand-alone TEXTURE type filters, which do not normally use another image. this is of course just in general for both of these types. there are some pattern filters which are also EFFECT filters. so, there's no hard rule on these. but generally it's like i say.

when you open filter forge, you may have noticed that the listing of filters you have within FF are listed in the top left of the interface and are divided about half way down by a line. the filters in the top half are TEXTURE filters, which do not use any type of image import. the bottom half is all EFFECT filters, which, by definition, do use another image to create that effect upon.

now, there are ways to use the TEXTURE filters in layers within photoshop and apply those textures to an image. you could use blend modes. you could make the image partially opaque. you could put the texture within the textures folder (i know paint shop pro has this, not real sure of photoshop) and apply the texture that way and i'm sure there are several other ways to use them with images, as well.

hope that helps.

The CD will contain a snapshot of the current filter collection, (got mine in a shelf somewhere).
I usually browse the web for the texture filters I currently search for, and make a bunch myself, that is the fun part

Browsing by category is pretty useful, or just browse the popular list:
I've found a few really great ones I've missed before by just browsing.

I cannot draw, not even a smiley without getting laughed at, so whatever I want to draw, if I can script it, code it or in another way make it happen it will happen

Quote
barmarhedhof wrote: (I thought i could use them as layers straight away).

you can. read the options i posted again. just remember that TEXTURES are opaque. so, you can put them on a layer, but you wont see through them at all unless you turn down the opacity or use a blend mode or erase bits of it.

Hi Barbara,

Welcome to the Filter Forge Family!
You will love it! I Also purchased the basic version,
thought I would not like making filters..but,
wrong again!

The team of friends here are always willing to help.

Have a GREAT day!

Ron

Hi Barbara,

Thank you for the compliment.
Maybe some day you will change your mind on filter making.
HAPPY Filter Forgeing!

Have a GREAT week!

Ron