Just Text FX

A 3D Blueprint Effect:
Generally, a Vector program
would be a better choice for
this type of effect -- i.e.
Illustrator, XaraX, Corel Draw,
etc.

But it's fairly simple to do,

especially once you understand
what's happening to create the
effect. So i've created a version
that will work with Photoshop.
Have a look at the example
image shown here. That should
explain pretty-much everything
needed; but i'll run through the
actual steps here for you too.

NOTE: the effect below was not

created to look "perfect", but
instead, kind of hand sketched.
This is done by making some of
the cross-section lines a little
crooked or a little short.

Create your initial Type layer. Fill it with white.

Open the "Layer Effects" (double-click the layer) and apply the Stroke filter (it's on the bottom of the
list). NOTE: your stroke colour should be a medium gray (pencil lead colour) for a good effect. But it
can be whatever you want.

Duplicate the Type layer, and use the arrow keys to move this layer UP and to the RIGHT. How far it
needs to be moved depend on the size and style of the font used. But try moving it 10 pixels up &
right; just as a starting point. You can adjust it from there if need be.

Create a New Layer, and move it inbetween the 2 type layers. Set your Foreground colour to the
same colour you stroked your type with (it can also be a bit lighter if you want). Use the Line tool --
set it to 1 pixel, with Anti-Aliasing ON. Draw the cross-lines mainly at the areas where the type curves
(see example image). They represent shading on the type. You can make these lines as dense or as sparse
as you like. That's your call.
 And finally, switch to white and grab a small brush. Then create a New Layer and put it just below the
"cross-section lines" layer; from step 4 (see sample image). Paint over the parts of the stroke lines
from the background letter, that shouldn't be visible. These will usually be the lines seen on the inner
corners of the letter (see example image).

GURU TIPS:
1. One thing i did to give the type a bit more "depth", was to refill the top Type layer with a very light gray.
That's optional of course.

2. One thing to note with this effect is that not every letter you may use will have curves to it -- like a
capital letter A. In that case, the cross-section lines can be applied to the straight side edges of the
letter. This effect though does in fact lend itself better to curvey letters.

Have fun!
Mark (aka theKeeper)...