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I try to restrain myself from writing up computer products but so many readers now use their home PCs for designing and ask me for information that, on this occasion, I have given in to temptation.
Xenofex is a program of 'Special Effects' which slots into an existing drawing or paint package and is used to change and enhance an existing design. These effects should be used with care as they can be very 'gimmicky'. However, this 'plug-in' (as such enhancements are called) has many options that will immediately ring a bell with embroiderers. The 'Distressed' option gives wonderful torn edges; you can choose how torn and how far the edge extends. 'Baked Earth' gives the design an aged and cracked look or even a Martian landscape, if that turns you on. 'Stain' adds subtle colour from rust to red wine. One of my favourites was 'Television'. The 'Seventies TV Set' selection turns your design into a series of wrapped cords or rods. Best of all, you can try the effects for nothing by downloading from their website (www.alienskin.com). You need a host program. I use Corel 8 Photopaint (it doesn't work on 7) but it also works with Adobe Photoshop 4 or later, or PaintShop Pro 4.12 or later (PSP is available as shareware). The cost to buy Xenofex is 110.00 UK pounds.
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In the UK, Xenofex is available from Principal Distribution |
highlights from September 1999 issue