 More and more webmasters and bloggers are using RSS syndication because it allows readers to easily stay informed by retrieving the latest content from the sites they are interested in. However making an eye-catching RSS icon is not a simple task. So, in this article I will show you some ways to create nice ones
First of all I want to mention that it is more than a tutorial, but also a downloadable page. You can use them for your websites, applications but please DO NOT redistribute or sell them. But I think you can create some for your own after reading this article! Now let's me introduce my first package... RSS Icons - Sphere Style 
In most case, you have to play with the Layer Style box. For example, with the first row icons you should use Inner Glow to give a 3D feel for your icons. And you can use Color Overlay to change their colors, it's really convenient! Here is the process of creating my first row icons 
For the second row, they are heavily based on Layer Style effects 
And for the third and fourth rows, you have a chance to use Bevel and Emboss effect with the Pen Tool or Selection Tool 
Next, my second package is about buttons... RSS Icons - Button Style 
 Download this package (135 KB)
OK, maybe you can figure out that I used the same way as the previous package. Yes, you're right !!!  Now let's get into 3D Icon world! 3D RSS Icons - First Style
For this effect you need to create a basic rectangle shape first and use the Transform Tool (Edit > Transform and choose Distort or Perspective) and adjust the shape as you like. Double click on the current layer to bring up the Layer Style box. Use some effects as shown in the image below until it looks good. Then duplicate this layer and press the "Up arrow" key to move it up a bit. Repeat again and again (about 30 times) and you will get this style. After that, merge down all the layers EXCEPT the top one (and the Background layer if you have one). Here is the process: 
Let's have another look at the most beautiful 3D Icons package in this article... 3D RSS Icons - Second Style  Before explaining, I want to show you the overall process: 
First of all, you have to go to the Internet and search for a nice stripe pattern and apply it to your shape. Then with the Brush Tool, make some lighting effects on the edges to bring 3D effect to your icon. The main body should be created with Bevel and Emboss, Inner Glow and Stroke effects. Finally, apply a glowing layer on top with the Gradient Tool. That is the way these 3D icons are created! If you don't like all the packages above, maybe you will enjoy the traditional RSS icons Traditional RSS Icons 
Download this package (171 KB) This package includes all popular sizes you need for your website, from 16x16 to 256x256 pixels Uhm... just one more thing: if you like this article, it will be great if you can Digg or StumpleUpon it |