Hot Software Tips How-Tos
How To: Create a 3D model of a cupcake in Blender
In this video tutorial, we learn how to create a comprehensive 3D model of a cupcake complete with paper within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better your skills, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the lessons imparted by this free video software tutorial yourself, watch this free video guide. Create a 3D model of a cupcake in Blender - P...
How To: Animate a swinging chain in the Blender 3D modeling software
This tutorial can work for anything you want to make swing, but it focuses on how you can make a chain swing back and forth when using the Blender 3D animation software. It also explains some of the artist concepts behind the process of animation.
How To: Animate realistic looking guts in the Blender 3D software
Start with a new project, and then use the curves toolbox to create a pile of guts sitting on the floor. Then you can go in and use all the texture editors to add that special offal texture and create a realistic looking pile of guts!
How To: Set up a great music playlist to sync with your playlist
Having music to listen to helps a workout go by, but you can also use music and the beats to enhance your workout. This tutorial shows you how to choose the right music and set up a playlist that will motivate you to work out!
How To: Set up a teleprompter app for your video blog
Want a professional way to deliver your video blog presentation without relying on notes or having to memorize every line? All you need is some paper and a CD case, and either a smartphone or a laptop to set up your own free teleprompter program.
How To: Replicate the effect on the album cover for Drake'sThank Me Later
A fan of Drake's music, Thank Me Later or just like the way the album art was done? This tutorial shows you how to go step by step to create the same kind of effect using the free photo editing software GIMP.
How To: Create a new publication in Microsoft Publisher 2010
In this video tutorial, we learn how to create a new publication when working in Microsoft Office Publisher 2010. Whether you're new to Microsoft's popular desktop publishing application or are a seasoned pro merely looking to brush up on Publisher 2010, you're sure to be well served by this clip. For more information, and to get started employing the lessons imparted by this free video software tutorial in your own Publisher projects, take a look.
How To: Write and collaborate on screenplays online with Plotbot
In this video tutorial, we learn how to use Plotbot, a web application for writing and collaborating on screenplays. For all the details, including a complete demonstration and detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started using Plotbot yourself, watch this home-computing how-to from the folks at popSiren.
How To: Create multiple UV maps & clone paint projected textures in Blender 2.5
In this video tutorial, we learn how to use multiple UV maps and clone paint projected textures within Blender 2.5. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Create multiple UV maps & clone paint projected textures in Blender 2.5.
How To: Animate three different types of balls in Blender 2.5
In this video software tutorial, we learn how to create a bouncing golf ball, basketball and ball filled partly with water within Blender 2.5. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Animate three different types of balls in Blender 2.5.
How To: Create an Andy Warhol pop art effect in GIMP
In this tutorial, we learn how to create a Warhol effect in GIMP. First, you will need to take your image and open it up in GIMP. After this, you will need to resize this so that four of these fit into one square next to each other. From here, create a new layer and then layer it to size. After this, change the hue and saturation of the photos. Then, change the lightness and make it any color you like. Then, do the same for the other photos in different layers. Save this when finished, then y...
How To: Create a Photoshop layout in GIMP
In this video we learn how to create a Photoshop layout in GIMP. First, open up GIMP and then add a new tab. From here, you will open up the brushes tab and choose the brush that you want. After this, create the template size that you want for your page. Then, open up the preferences section and choose what you would like. Then, show the layer boundary on the page and fill it in with the color of your choice. Create toolboxes and add in the text that you would like. Use preferences whenever y...
How To: Create amazing 3D text in GIMP
In this tutorial, we learn how to create amazing 3D text in GIMP. First, start a new image with the width and height that you want. From here, select the text editor and then type in your text. After this, change the font to what you want and then change the size and color as well. From here, you will duplicate the layer and then go to layer, and then filter. Select the map button and then map the object. Select the text and then show the preview to make sure it's what you want. Change the or...
How To: Use vocal effects and auto-tune in Fruity Loops
In this tutorial, we learn how to use vocal effects and Auto-Tune in Fruity Loops. First, load on your audio and then set it to a channel FX. Add in the effects that you want and then drag them into the right hand side column for the different effects. From here, you can use the mixer to add in different beats and tunes. Then, you can add reeverb to the audio and then change the settings for it how you would like it. Continue to edit the different effects as you continue to scroll through the...
How To: Create text in GIMP
In this tutorial, we learn how to create text in GIMP. To start, create a new image with the width and height at 600 each. Then, click the text box button and choose a font, font size, and other options open on the window. After this, create the box and for the text and type what you would like into the boxes. Set in the distance you would like on the inner shadow and then choose if you want the edges to blend. Make these fade out and then choose to repeat the inner shadow. When finished, sav...
How To: Create a modern bokeh effect in GIMP
In this video, we learn how to create a modern bokeh effect in GIMP. First, start a new image and then change it to the size that you want. From here, click on the paint can and then fill your box up with a color. Then, create a new layer and name it "bokeh background". Click on this layer and then use the paintbrush tool to paint a small brush with color onto it. Start to paint on small dots and you will see that there are small tiny star like dots that start to appear. Then, fade these out ...
How To: Create a Harry Potter-style House Elf in Blender 3D 2.5
In this four-part video tutorial, you'll learn how to create a Harry Potter-style House Elf in Blender 2.5. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Create a Harry Potter-style House Elf in Blender 3D 2.5 - Part 1 of 4.
How To: Create and rig a bouncing ball in Blender 2.5
In this clip, you'll learn how to create dynamically deforming bouncing balls in Blender 2.5. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Create and rig a bouncing ball in Blender 2.5.
How To: Join lines in Xara Xtreme
In this video, we learn how to join lines in Xara Xtreme. All the lines in this are independent, but they can be joined together to make an object. First, open up the object gallery and then duplicate the layer. After this, copy the image and increase the line size by four pixels. Then, go to "arrange" and "combine shapes". From here, the shapes will all combine together to make one total image. Make a rectangle around this and then select "subtract shapes". Combine the layers to finish, then...
How To: Create a glossy shield in Xara Xtreme
In this video, we learn how to create a glossy shield in Xara Xtreme. First, open up the program and then create the shield outline. After this, create another outline inside of it. Arrange these and then combine them together, adding in silver in between them. After this, you will add a light blue color to the top and then separate this with a dark blue color at the bottom. To make this appear shiny like a shield, you will add in white around the outline of the inner shape. Once finished, sa...
How To: Make a scary voice effect on Adobe Audition
In this video we learn how to make a scary voice effect on Adobe Audition. First, record an audio that you made and open up Adobe Audition. From here, open up any other audio that you want to hear for the beat. Then, go to "generate" and then "silence. Put this to 1.5 seconds, then go to the end of your sound and do the same thing. This will make a good effect when you are editing and adding in echo. First, reverse the audio by going to "effects" and then "reverse". This will make it a lot ea...
How To: Draw a manga eye in MS Pain and make it blink
In this video, we learn how to draw a manga eye in MS Pain and make it blink. Start out in Paint and draw the outline of the eye. After this, color the outside area in black and then fill in the pupil area of it. Color the eye blue or any color that you desire, then add in lines to the middle of the eye to make it look more realistic. Leave white around the edge of the eye. Create an eyebrow over this, then add it to a flesh-toned background. Once you have done this, you will be finished with...
How To: Draw anime eyes in MS Paint
In this tutorial, we learn how to draw anime eyes in MS Paint. First, open up MS Paint and then grab a marker that is thick. From here, draw in a thick line that will be the top of the eye. Then, draw in the round area underneath the eye and the pupil inside of this. Draw in the bottom lash line of the eye, then start to add detail to the middle of the eye. Use the dark line to create a thicker line around the pupil, then fill the eye in with black. Leave a white part to make the eye look glo...
How To: Make a Spark frame ripper
Make a Spark frame ripper
How To: Create advanced shadows in GIMP
In this video we learn how to create advanced shadows in GIMP. First, create a new image that's 500x400. After this, create different layers on the page and use the shadow and gradient to create different colors. As you do this, you can you can add in a layer mask to create a deeper shadow inside the image. Use a larger brush to make the shadowing fuzzy and then use the shape tool to drag it out and make it larger. Practice playing with the different brushes and gradients and have fun creatin...
How To: Draw anime eyes in MS Paint
In this video, we learn how to draw anime eyes in MS Paint. First, draw the round circle for the head and draw a line in the middle for reference of where the eyes will go. To draw large eyes, draw two round circles and then a small pupil at the top. Color the pupils in black and color the rest any color you'd like. For female eyes, make the pupils much larger and add in eyelashes on the eyelids. Shade in underneath the lids and add white to show they are glossy. These are both great looks fo...
How To: Draw a dog in MS Paint
In this tutorial, we learn how to draw a dog in MS Paint. You will do this by using Paint and your mouse, not using a tablet or a pen on the PC. Start out by drawing the outline of the dog in the middle of the page. Next, fill in the nose, mouth, and eyes with black. Then, color the tongue and draw on the ridges of the teeth in the mouth. From here, you will spray paint the color of the dog onto the edges. Spray brown around the edges, then add in white, tan, black, and other colors to make t...
How To: Extract files from a RAR archive
In this video we learn how to extract files from a RAR archive. First, go to: Techsono. Once you are on here, choose what download you want depending on your computer type. Once you download and install this, open it up on your desktop. Click the "RAR" button and then select files using the select button. Go and find the file and then open it up. You can also drag and drop files onto this window if you prefer. From here, you will be able to extract the files from the archive and you're finished!
How To: Perform a soundcheck with PreSonus Studio One and StudioLive 24
In this video tutorial, we learn how to use StudioLive and Studio One to perform a sound check before the band's even arrived. It's an easy process and this clip presents a complete guide. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this official guide from PreSonus.
How To: Navigate and use the Virtual StudioLive 16 user interface
In this video tutorial, we learn about some tricks to help us get around the Virtual StudioLive (VSL) 16 user interface. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Download and install PreSonus Virtual StudioLive
In this video tutorial, we learn how to download PreSonus Virtual StudioLive from the PreSonus website. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Register & activate PreSonus Studio One online or offline
In this video tutorial, we learn how to register and activate Studio One either over the Internet or offline. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Use Fat Channel in PreSonus Virtual StudioLive (VSL)
In this video tutorial, we learn how to use Fat Channel in PreSonus's Virtual StudioLive (VSL). Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Perform and record with PreSonus StudioLive
In this video tutorial, we learn how to use PreSonus StudioLive to record or augment a live performance. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Use PreSonus StudioLive at a concert or live performance
In this video tutorial, we learn how to set up and use StudioLive during a performance. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Set up plug-ins and virtual instruments in PreSonus Studio One
In this video tutorial, we learn how to set up VST plug-ins and virtual instruments within Studio One. Whether you're new to PreSonus' DAW or new to digital recording more generally, you're sure to find much to take away from this free video software tutorial. Take a look.
How To: Figure out which webpages are unsuccessful with Google Website Optimizer
All websites have weak points and problems, and it's important to analyze the overall traffic on your site so you can address these problems and improve your site. This tutorial shows you how to employ Google Analytics and Google Website Optimizer to analyze and maximize your website's potential.
How To: Convert media with the ATI Video Converter transcoder application
In this clip, you'll learn how to use ATI Video Converter to transcode video. It's an easy process and this video presents a complete guide. For more information, including a full demonstration and detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful home-computing how-to.
How To: Use the Microsoft Office Web Apps in Windows Live Essentials 2011
One of the best new features available in Windows Live Essentials 2011 is Microsoft Office compatibility. The Microsoft Office Web Apps, which are free online companions to all of the Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote), allow you to not only view Office documents, but edit and share them, too!
How To: Use cracks to play a DVD or CD without the disk
In this video, we learn how to use cracks to play a DVD or CD without the disk. First, go to Gameburnworld and download/install the patch to play your game. Then, open it up and go to the program files folder to find the files for the game. Drag this and drop it in, then you will not have to use the DVD for your movie or CD. Remember to only use this if you own the game or movie, not if you have downloaded it illegally. You can do this for all your discs, it's easy and just takes a few minutes!