My name is DJ Javier and I'm an artist and graphic designer.
I completed artwork in Fresco to be able to bring it into Photoshop.
I took the line work and I used the Bevel and Emboss tool to then create a bit of like a 3D effect, as if it was actually handmade or hand carved.
Added a bit of texture on top of that.
And then I added a drop shadow as well onto the line work with a bit of noise.
The use of the Bevel and Emboss tool really reminds me of how I like to paint.
I took the top layer, duplicated it, and I set the blend mode to divide.
From there, I was able to then give the work like a bit more life and a bit more character.
Being able to discover new things within your old tools, it really puts the power back in your hands creatively.
1
Raise the bar.
You can bevel and emboss anything in Adobe Photoshop, even outlines. Head to the Layers panel (Window > Layers), select the Line Work layer and select the fx icon. Choose Bevel and Emboss to create a raised effect.
2
Time to shine.
Make simple black lines appear more liquid by adjusting the Blending Options. Choose Bevel and Emboss then select Texture. DJ chose Water–Pool Pattern to give his lines a wet-look shine.
3
Drop in a Drop Shadow.
For a real 3D effect, you need a shadow. In Blending Options, select Drop Shadow. Adjust the opacity, angle, and distance to create line work you can almost reach out and touch.
4
Add a real highlight.
Create more defined highlights by duplicating your Line Work layer. In the Layers panel, drag it to the + sign, then change the Blending Mode of the duplicate to Divide, and toggle off the Drop Shadow. Keep playing with colors, textures, and gradients to make it your own.
