Puzzle Card -- PSP users

[GizmoBird]

BerryGirl's card (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=48786&cat=1190&page=1) peeked my interest and from the comments also other users'.

For PSP users I found two tutorials. State of Entropy (http://www.state-of-entropy.com/) has a tutorial using a type of overlay (under PSP5 -- Puzzle Photos). Was able to do the tutorial, but wanted a true transparent overlay. I was able to create the transparent overlay but the shadows were not exactly right -- will work on it later. Also, cutting out pieces will be another challenge. There is a commercial product available (a little on the expensive side) -- a quick Google search will find it.

Another tutorial for making a single puzzle piece is HERE (http://www.fortunecity.com/westwood/alaia/354/tutorials/jigsaw/). It includes the shape preset.

[Judyy]

I did a layout with a similar image for my Book of Me:
Pieces of Me (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=38789&cat=1192&page=1)

If you're using PSE3, see Scott Kelby's Down and Dirty Tricks for Elements 3.0 for detailed instructions on how to do this puzzle-piece photo. In PSE3, it mainly involves using the four preset puzzle piece shapes along with what I've recently learned is called a "clipping mask" (though that's not what PSE3 calls it) and assorted layer styles and shadows.

I love this effect, too, and it was very challenging and satisfying to use it. Have fun! :)