Layer styles enable you to change the appearance of a layer's content. They are useful in providing quick special effects for type and other shapes. They can only be applied to layers capable of opacity change and, accordingly, will not work on opaque background layers. Some styles work best with type, others are useful for general purposes. Layer styles have been applied to each of the examples below.

Once applied, layer styles can be modified to cater to different needs. They are relatively easy to create from scratch. Unlike Photoshop, Photoshop Elements cannot be used to create layer styles but styles created in Photoshop can be imported into Elements. Styles created in one version of Photoshop are not backwards compatible but will work with later versions.

Once purchased, use the link at the base of each Special f/x page to download a set of 12 layer styles. Save the style set to Program File > Adobe > Photoshop or Elements > Presets > Styles.

To load a style set, go to Window > Styles to access the Styles palette. Click on the arrow circled below to access the flyout menu then click on Load Styles.

Use the pop-up dialog box to navigate to Program Files > Adobe > Photoshop > Presets > Styles. Select a style set from those available and click Load.

The new style set is appended (or added) to the Styles palette.

Using a layer style is a simple process. Have the Styles palette open before you on the work area. Ensuring the target layer is selected, click on any style to apply it.