I learn things best visually, so I'll use this method to show what I did. First the screen shots, then a point description to expand the details:


[img]/resized-image.ashx/__size/1000x1000/__key/CommunityServer-Discussions-Components-Files/12/0602.1.jpg[/img]


[img]/resized-image.ashx/__size/600x600/__key/CommunityServer-Discussions-Components-Files/12/5707.abc.jpg[/img]


[img]/resized-image.ashx/__size/1000x1000/__key/CommunityServer-Discussions-Components-Files/12/6116.8.jpg[/img]


[img]/resized-image.ashx/__size/1000x1000/__key/CommunityServer-Discussions-Components-Files/12/0310.3.jpg[/img]





OK, so here goes:
  1. Create a new layer (I use the little square icon by the trash-can in the layers palette, at the very bottom right hand corner of the screen shot)
  2. Select the gradient icon (be careful not to select the paint bucket, it's in the same menu)
  3. Open the Gradient Editor by clicking here: (a) Select this gradient icon, (b) Move each 'marker' or 'Stop' as I have done. I used the color picker and a rainbow color swatch (found on google images) to get each color. If you click on a 'Stop' you will automatically have it selected and the eyedropper (color picker) tool ready for selecting a color. (c) Once you are happy save the gradient.
  4. Select the radial gradient icon (This makes a bow)
  5. Drag out the gradient by clicking at the bottom and drag up to point 6 (holding down the shift key will keep your line straight). (make sure your new layer is still selected when you do this).
  6. Release your mouse and you'll have a rainbow (an ugly one)
  7. Change the blend mode from 'Normal' to 'Screen'
  8. Click on the move tool and move the rainbow where you want it. If you want to get fancy you can use the transform options in the Edit menu to put the bow on an angle or squash and stretch it into a better shape.
  9. Blur. Go up to the top menu and select Filter-> Blur -> Motion Blur. I found motion blur worked best for this image and I choose a 'Distance' of 214.
  10. Erase the bits you don't want and your done!