Tips on using the gradient shapes

[stepsinpairs]

Apologies for any laziness on my part for not searching around for existing topics!
Do people have any tips on using the default gradient-coloured shapes? I've seen them a lot on designs on this forum but I rarely use them because I have a lot of trouble make them not look out of place.

 

[seadog777]

Do you mean the shapes / patterns that fade to invisible in the decals bit??

 

[stepsinpairs]

Do you mean the shapes / patterns that fade to invisible in the decals bit??

Yes, the ones in the "shape 2" and "patterns 2" sections. I can only work with them to do big areas of fading like from the front to the back. I was hoping someone had some tips for using them in creative ways for making shadows or 3D effects in smaller areas.

 

[seadog777]

Yes, the ones in the "shape 2" and "patterns 2" sections. I can only work with them to do big areas of fading like from the front to the back. I was hoping someone had some tips for using them in creative ways for making shadows or 3D effects in smaller areas.

Ok, understood.... I'm afraid I can't really help you, I use them the same as you, now and again. Not sure how they'd be used for 3D or shadows, but there are some very creative people here who might help.
I have sort of left them alone now and do my own fades etc. and upload as a decal.... I have way more control that way.