How to 3D Chrome Typeface Effect (+FREE PSD) | PHOTOSHOP TUTORIAL 2021

Summary

In this tutorial, Dixon walks viewers through creating a stunning 3D chrome logo effect in Photoshop, a technique he frequently uses for merchandise design. Starting with a black background and text creation, he applies detailed bevel, emboss, and inner shadow effects to give the logo a 3D look. Using curves and gradient map layers, he refines the chrome effect with colors and lighting. He then adds dynamic sparks and glow effects for extra polish, finishing with a noise layer and background gradient. Dixon also shares the PSD file for download, encouraging likes and subscriptions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by creating a new document in Photoshop with an A4 horizontal orientation, and set the background to black.
• 😀 Use any font for the logo, but for a more dramatic effect, try the 'Killer Groove' font (link in the description).
• 😀 Convert the text layer to a smart object and apply a 'Bevel and Emboss' effect. Set the depth to 1000, size to 35, and soften to 5.
• 😀 Add an inner shadow to the text with a distance of 0 and size set to 17 for a more realistic 3D effect.
• 😀 Apply a 'Curves Adjustment Layer' to enhance the contrast and make the 3D effect more defined by creating multiple curve points.
• 😀 Add a 'Gradient Map' layer for color, adjusting the gradient with specific shades of dark gray, teal blue, highlighted blue, and white.
• 😀 Fine-tune the 'Bevel and Emboss' layer by adjusting the gloss contour, angle (75), and altitude (55) to achieve the desired chrome effect.
• 😀 To create spark effects, use the 'Polygon Tool' with a star ratio of 5%, then apply a 'Gaussian Blur' for a glowing effect.
• 😀 Merge the spark layers with a soft round brush and place them on bright spots of the design to simulate shine and glow.
• 😀 Add an ambient glow effect to the overall design by applying 'Gaussian Blur' to a merged layer and setting the blending mode to 'Lighten'.
• 😀 Apply a 'Gradient Overlay' to the background layer using two colors: a shade of blue and black, then add noise for a final touch of texture.

Q & A

What is the first step in creating the 3D chrome logo effect?

The first step is to create a new document with A4 size in horizontal orientation, unlock the background layer, and change the background color to black.

Which font is used in the tutorial, and can you use any other font?

The font used is called 'Killer Groove,' but you can use any font, or even your own logo, as the effect will still work the same.

How do you apply the Bevel and Emboss effect to the text?

Right-click on the text layer, convert it to a smart object, then go to 'Blending Options' and check 'Bevel and Emboss.' Set the style to 'Inner Bevel' and adjust the depth, size, and soften settings as specified.

What is the significance of the Curves Adjustment Layer in the process?

The Curves Adjustment Layer refines the 3D effect by adjusting the contrast and sharpness of the highlights and shadows, making the chrome effect more polished and realistic.

What colors are used in the Gradient Map layer for the design?

The colors used are a very dark gray, white, a teal blue, and a highlighted blue. These colors are specified using hex codes provided in the tutorial.

What is the purpose of the Inner Shadow effect, and how is it applied?

The Inner Shadow effect adds depth to the text by creating a shadow inside the text itself. The distance is set to zero, and the size is adjusted to 17 to give it a subtle shadowed look.

How are sparks created for the design?

The sparks are created using the Polygon Tool to form a four-pointed star with a 5% star ratio. After creating the spark, it’s blurred with Gaussian Blur and merged with a soft round brush for a glowing effect.

What is the significance of using the 'Lighten' blending mode in the final glow layer?

The 'Lighten' blending mode is used to enhance the glow effect by making lighter areas brighter. It helps to give the design a shiny, glowing finish that emphasizes the chrome look.

Why is the noise layer added at the end of the design process?

The noise layer is added to add texture and realism to the design. It gives the effect a more dynamic and polished appearance, making it look less flat and more like a real metallic surface.

What are some optional adjustments you can make to customize the design further?

You can experiment with different gloss contour presets in the Bevel & Emboss settings, adjust the opacity of the sparks, or change the blending mode of the final glow layer to explore different visual effects.