Marlene! Do your own thing and show us what YOU would do anyway! I like what you did btw a very cool crop and effect! Shelia and Andreas, sorry it just doesn't look finished to me being sharp, I personally prefer the softer versions, adds much mood to a plain jane rose imo. But don't get me wrong I do appreciate your input, because it makes me realize that we do not all think alike! Maybe I will do two, one each way LOL! It sure would be a boring world if we all liked the same thing! :) LostPatrol and Onslow, I love your second version Simon as well as Richard's crop and postwork. I will play with the settings you all gave me, I work in PSP but I will be able to figure them out as they are very similar, no worries! I have always wanted to do a rose like this, but always get frustrated and wind up deleting it! :( BTW? I have been playing with this thing for four days now LOL! Kort, Thank you for your input and support, glad it isn't just me who prefers a softer image here! :) Thank you all for helping teach me the technique to get this effect, maybe not one I would use very much, but it is something I need to know how to do... I have a pounding headache right now, just took something for it and I am going to lie down will be back later... maybe way later! :-S Brenda :)