Does Your Template look like this?

We are pretty much finished with the template. The only thing we need to do is some clean-up and saving. And then finishing.

Saving Our Files

1. We need to save our new stripped background file. Save this into your tutorial folder. I would save it as a .psp file as you keep the crisp clear colors. Name it what you want, but don't forget to change the name or you over ride the original background.

2. Save your template as a .psp file. I ALWAYS prrint using the psp file and share the .jpg file.

3. Speaking of which, I will not show you how to save the template as a .jpg compressed file so you can share it on your groups.

1. Make sure your template is highlighted. Click on

"File" "Export" "JPEG Optimizer. You should get this screen:

*** Note the compress and the Uncompressed file size.

*** I start my Set Compression Value to: 40 to start and have found that this is a good setting to use as I don't loose quality of the image. If you want to play around try setting it to 60 and see the colors get "watery". If the compress image is watery at 40 then drop the setting to 30 until you are happy with the quality and the byte size.

Then save the file with the name that you want. I would add your name to the file incase it gets shared and the layout has your identity on it. It doesn't mean that people won't change this, but for the most part, people usually don't change the file name.

For the most part we are finished. You can now print out the template and finish and assemble to your liking. You can make matching wrapper for microwave popcorn, add a can of soda and a candy bar or two and you have a wonderful gift box to share with your loved ones.

Here is a few suggestions to make changes to the template.

On the baisc template there is a layer called "popcorn" if you are experienced enough you can delete the popcorn, keep the layer and if you know a little bit about tubes, you can replace the popcorn with m&m's tubes, the round coke logo etc. If you don't want to add food inside of the box and want it more elegant...You can add pearls in a string, jewels or any other tube that might seem fitting. In any case. THe reason for the popcorn is to hide where the 2 differant backgrounds come together. I think the popcorn keeps the circles and stripes from clashing.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. If you have any questions or would like to send me your finished box, you can do so. I would love to load it to the website for people to use. With your permission only.

marti@aaardvarksattic.com

Enjoy!!! Happy psp'ing.

MarTi