[PHOTOSHOP] Pixel Stretch Swirl

Jacorre · 09-03-2006

Using the pixel stretch technique and polar coordinates, you can create an interesting swirl. This is a neat little effect that can be used with any picture and in any project and it only takes a few quick steps!

STEP ONE

Using any size document, grab an image you want to experiment with and size it accordingly.

STEP TWO

Using the Single Column Marquee Tool, select an area of the image you wish to use for the pixel stretch. Keep in mind that when using the single column marquee tool, you are selecting an area that is 1 pixel in width.

STEP THREE

Right click on your selection and choose "Layer via copy". You won't really see anything different but what this does is create a new layer with just the 1 pixel wide area that you selected.

We want to stretch the 1 pixel wide area so go to Edit > Transform > Scale. You should see the following:

Grab the middle handles and stretch all the way to the left and right then hit enter. You should get the following:

STEP FOUR

The final step is to apply the swirl effect. To do this, go to Filter > Distort > Polar Coordinates and make sure "Rectagular to Polar" is selected. You should get the following result:

I used this effect when I created the Jennifer Love Hewitt wallpaper. Enjoy!

**tamlin** · 09-03-2006

Ingenious! I'm not sure this is something that I'd use a lot but it's a very interesting technique.

Jacorre · 09-03-2006

Thanks, glad you liked it!

ecntrc · 09-03-2006

I dont know think id use it but what would you use it for anyways? I know sounds like a stupid question but Id like to know..

zapphnath · 09-03-2006

I'd imagine, with the right base image, you could create a decent CD or - gasp! - a record.

Nice job, Jacorre.

Jacorre · 09-03-2006

You can use the same technique with a gradient. If you use the rainbow gradient you can make the bottom of a cd with a few minor tweeks. Or you can use it in a wallpaper like I did!

**Man1c M0g** · 09-04-2006

Now THAT'S a technique i've not seen before! I'll pop it onto BioRUST's main pages soon!

Lauranne · 09-04-2006

Thats is SO amazing...
So quick and so nice!

**Man1c M0g** · 09-19-2006

Many apologies that this tutorial has been delayed - I was ill for a week, then on-call... then had to prepare a massive talk! Anyway, enough of the excuses - its all over now, so I'll have it online before the weekend!

**Man1c M0g** · 09-20-2006

And this tutorial is now online over @ BioRUST.com :: Tutorials >> Pixel Stretch Swirl

Many thanks for the excellent work Jacorre!