Non-patterned images are generally easier to work with than patterned images. The non-patterned image that will be used for this example is shown in Figure 3.3.

Figure 3.3: A Non-Tileable, Non-Patterned Image

    The first step is to make the image square. It is not absolutely required that the image be square, but a square image will be much easier to work with. For a non-patterned image, simply adjusting the canvas size is usually sufficient to create a square image. For more information about adjusting the canvas and image sizes, refer to Chapter 2. For this example, the canvas size is adjusted to 100 x 100 pixels.

    Photoshop includes a built in filter that allows the image to be viewed in a way that shows the seams. This allows the seams to be corrected while they are clearly visible. To use this tool, select “Other” from the “Filter” menu. From “Other,” select “Offset.” A screen similar to the one shown in Figure 3.4 will be displayed.

Figure 3.4: Offsetting an Image

    The image should be offset by half of its height and width. Since the sample image is 100 pixels square, it should be offset by 50 pixels, as shown in Figure 3.4. Once the offset is complete, the image will display as shown in Figure 3.5.

Figure 3.5: Offsetting an Image

    As can be seen in Figure 3.5, the seams are clearly visible. Now the seams should be fixed using one of Photoshop's many tools. A particularly useful tool is the bandage brush. The bandage brush appears on the toolbar as a small bandage. Select the bandage brush, then shift-click somewhere in the middle of an area between two seams. Do not click too close to a seam. Now use the bandage brush and paint over the seams. The seams will be removed. Once the seams are removed, the image will display as shown in Figure 3.6.

Figure 3.6: Seams Removed From the Image

    Once the seams have been removed, the offset should be removed. Open the offset dialog box, as described earlier. Enter the same values are before. Repeating this step will remove the offset. The image can now be saved and uploaded to Second Life. Working with a tiled image inside Second Life is covered later in this chapter.