In this tutorial, we will explain how to create a metallic text effect using layer styles in Photoshop. Let’s get started!
Tutorial Assets
The following assets were used during the production of this tutorial.
Step 1
First of all install the .pat file named black_pattern_by_fluctuemos-d5mermc.pat. You have to double click the icon. It’s that simple.
Step 2
Create a new document. Set width to 600px and height to 450. Resolution must be 72 DPI.
Step 3
Duplicate the background (Go to Layer > Duplicate Layer > OK) and rename the new layer as ‘Background Pattern.’
Step 4
Double click on ‘Background Pattern’ and the ‘Layer Style’ window will appear. Go to ‘Pattern Overlay’, select ‘PATTERN’ from the list and press OK.
Step 5
To make the background look even better we are going to add inner shadow. You have to double click on ‘Background Pattern’ and, once the Layer Style window appears, set the following values.
Step 6
Type the word ‘Metalkid’ or a text of your choice using Strasua font. Set the font size to 100 pt and tracking to 20. For best quality, change the anti-aliasing mode to Sharp.
Step 7
Using the ‘Move Tool’, select the text and background layer, then click the align commands: ‘Align Horizontal Center’ and ‘Align Vertical Center’ on the top menu to center it, as shown in the image below.
Step 8
Add a layer style to the text, you have to right click on the layer in your layers menu and choose Blending Options. Make sure you use the following values and press OK.
Step 9
Let’s start with the text effect! First we are going to add some shadows to separate the text from the background. Go to Layer Style > Drop Shadow and use the values shown in the image below.
Step 10
Now we are going to create a gradient overlay, it will give a base to the metal effect. Go to Layer Style and modify ‘Gradient Overlay’ setting the following values.
Tip: To create a new point in the gradient you have to click under the gradient bar. Clicking each one of the color stops allows you to modify Location and Color.
Step 11
Go to Layer Style > Inner Glow and use the settings shown below to brighten up the edges.
Step 12
To start creating the 3D look go to Layer Style > Bevel & Emboss and use the following values.
Step 13
Now we are going to emphasize lights and shadows to give more realism to the metal effect. Go to Layer Style > Satin and use the settings shown below.
Step 14
It’s almost done. In this final step we are going to accentuate edges and corners, giving the text the 3D final look. Go to Layer Style > Stroke, and use the values shown in the image below.
Final Image
