I'm guessing you've tried it on your own before as it seems like a simple task. But it's hard isn't it? However, if you really think about it beforehand, what is glass? Is it not just a transparent medium, with reflections and shadows? It's all about the experimentation of light bouncing off a transparent surface - contrast. So, start off with a clear, shiny, smooth shape, and alter the lighting. Whether you need this effect for a web design layout, or a brush, or anything, a transparent/glass effect will always come in handy, so it's worth learning about. Apple use these effects frequently...

In this Backgrounds & Textures tutorial, we'll be using Adobe Photoshop CS5 to create an ice texture layered over a concrete road background, with the use of downloaded frosty Photoshop brushes and borders. It's actually very surprising how easy this tutorial is to complete, especially since the final digital outcome is so ultra-realistic. You will also need a concrete texture too, as we'll be layering our cracked ice over the top of the concrete in the road. This Photoshop tutorial includes a free PSD for you to experiment your outcomes with, or to help you if you slip up along the way...

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to add some chaotic, urban grit to your artwork using selection and layer blending techniques. You'll also learn how to replicate a three-colour graffiti stencil using Photoshop's filters and channels - then you'll get the chance to get your hands dirty by adding some overspray and drip effects. To finalise the effect, we'll use Photoshop's lesser-known Displace filter to map your graffiti to the contours of the wall. Graffiti has influenced many of today's graphic designers and illustrators, especially indie/grunge clothing brands and the music industry...