So Frustrating ! ! !

[Andy P]

I spent way too much time working with this cut-out of the Star of Bethlehem trying to create a soft, new background.

The worst error was using the Spiky Halo tool early on, it left too much in what should have been a blank field.

I gave up after getting this.

Most of this was done with the Kaleidescope tool, one I've only dabbled with. There are lots of possible adjustments, each affects the others, lol.

[ricks rants]

the effect is still good.

I have never tried doing anything like this. my graphics skill needs a lot to be desired.

[Bebop]

I like the effect of the middle one. The sharp spikes seem to contrast in an interesting way with the curves of the petals and the curves in the background. You have probably been staring at it for too long. Go back to it tomorrow and look at it with fresh eyes.