Using Brushes

[msgirard]

I am new to using Photoshop Elements 6 for Mac and would like to try to create things with the use of brushes. I am able to create a new layer and stamp a brush onto the layer. The problem is when I add second layer and try to create a text box on that layer. When I do this the brush has the dancing ants as well as the edges of the document, and after I add the text box the brush disappears completely from view. What am I doing wrong? How can I insure that the brush stays visible within my design?

[Diana]

Hi and welcome to Elements Village. You don't need to to create a new layer to put text on, the Type tool will create its own new layer. I don't understand why you would be getting marching ants when trying to create a text box or why your stamped brush layer is not visible.

I've posted a screenprint example with a stamped layer and a text layer so you can see how your layer palette should look.

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/1aTs4k0qEi75bo3GJmHvQn9vkvDya0_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1aTs4k0qEi75bo3GJmHvQn9vkvDya0)

Diana

[msgirard]

Diana,

Thanks for welcoming me to the community. I feel so stupid because I am probably posting such an easy question.

I took a screen shot of what happens after I add the brush and then change selection tools to text.

[Tina_B]

Make sure you are using the right brush and not the selection brush. It is an easy mix up. You want to use the brush that is just under the eraser tool. You can stamp a brush with the selection brush and get the marching ants around the shape so be sure to switch to the regular brush. That has tripped up many of us here.
Tina B

[indymom]

Also, you might not be able to see the brush layer because it is now UNDER the other layer. You can go up to Layers>Arrange and Move it Forward or Move to Front. Then you should be able to see it.

As far as the marching ants, I don't have a clue.

[msgirard]

That was exactly the issue!!! I was selecting the wrong paintbrush. Glad to know that this is not an uncommon problem for newbies.

Thanks for all the help.

[Tina_B]

I am glad we got to the answer for your issue on brushes. Many times there is an easy answer to most porblems.
Tina B

[Diana]

Glad you got it sorted out.

Diana