How the @#($* do you do this?

[HeadRusch]

All this artwork...you guys are throwing around out there.....VAT IS DER SECRET!?!?!

Is this all like clip and paste is PAINT only using a more powerful 24bit tool like what..Photoshop? PaintShop Pro??  Are these layered images? (IE: Start with background, add cut out characters..apply some filter to each piece of art you paste so the edges blend)

Also, super curious question #2:  
HOW DO YOU KNOW what size to print these images...do you design them with the intention that they be printed at, say, x inches by y inches?

[paigeoliver]

I am one of the worst artists here. But here is how I do it.

I use photoshop (Version 5.5). Photoshop allows you to select both the size AND dpi of your image. I generally work at actual size, at either 300 or 150 dpi. Plan on having a lot of ram if you want to work at 300 dpi on marquee/overlay/sideart size images.

I use layers. Lots and lots of them. Generally each and every item on the artwork is a layer. That allows you to easily change and edit anything you want.

This is the last thing I did. This is not an original piece. This is a standard Assault overlay. I spent a long time fixing it up, when I downloaded it, it was pieced together from multiple scans, but now it is ready to print.

[vitaflo]

Well, I'm a graphic designer, so I've learned everything from school and through my work.  If you're having problems with the programs, I'd suggest buying a book on whatever you're using.  Half the problem people usually have is overcoming the software itself.

Of course the rest comes from creativity, and you really can't teach that.  You've either got it or you don't.

[SNAAAKE]

google helps...like say you wanna add scanlines,you do a google search.

"scanlines using photoshop"

just a thought !  

[radiator]

as SNAAAAAAAAAAAAKE says...

and also, try looking for design specific sites/forums like http://www.3dcafe.com

 

[SirPoonga]

www.photoshopcafe.com too