The TIP SHEET

Can't remember if I gave you this tip TIP:
Might be a case of Deja Vu all over again but I found this lying around in the Tips folder and though it might be a good tip. Even if I've already used it.

Closing an open path: New users may have noticed that open paths cannot be filled. To close an open path, select it with the Selector Tool, select the Shape Editor Tool and click on one of the open ends. The cursor shows a four-way arrow. When you position the cursor over the other end the arrows change to a +. Click and the shape is closed and can be filled.

Adding focus to a photographic image TIP:

The hummingbird image is boring because all the values (light and dark) are the same. Here's an easy way to add focus to the image.

Image from the Xara 2 Replacement CD

Create a rectangle the same size as the image. Apply an Elliptical fill using dark green and while. Configure the fill as shown.

Place the Elliptical-filled rectangle over the photo.

Apply a Stained Glass, Elliptical Transparency as shown.

Or...

Place the Elliptical-filled rectangle over the photo.

Apply a Stained Glass, Flat Transparency, Amount 50% as shown.

Now the focus is on the hummingbird.