Quote Originally Posted by arsheesh View Post
As to the 3D effect you've achieved here, the test will be how well it handles a gradient map, or perhaps the color palette you choose for your gradient map. PS is vastly superior to GIMP on this score (see Jezelf's tutorial), as it offers a preview window that allows you to edit as you go.
Truth be told, it doesn't come out that well as the light/dark areas from bevel/emboss are just that - highlights and shading, rather than a heightmap so the gradient map doesnt come out as good. Though i think this is more suited to pattern/colour overlays.

thanks for the links, very interesting stuff