PAF: layer mask

OMG, how cool is this?!!  I've read tons about layer masks and knew PSE didn't have an easy way to do it so I always just created a layer and erased what I didn't want to show.  But, if I changed my mind, the pixels were already altered and in order to add more of the image or texture back in, I basically had to start over.  This way is SO much better!

Bonnie over at Pixel Dust very generously shared a link for a free action to add a layer mask function to PSE.  I decided to embrace her challenge and try to download and use this action.  Easy!  Now I want to try it on everything!!! :)

I used layer mask on a couple of images:

Original

Adjusted with Bonnie's new Dream Wonder texture and then used the layer mask to remove the texture from the flowers.  Genius!  (can you tell I like this new function?!)

This image was taken using my newly homemade light box (thanks to a challenge by Ashley).

Then I applied Bonnie's texture Season Greetings (darker color @ 82%) and Artist Easel (soft light @100%) and a chinese text page I picked up somewhere.  Season Greetings gave the green tint and light branches on the left while Artist Easel warmed it up and gave the rusty glow on the right.

Bonnie, thanks for nudging me (okay, pushing) into trying the layer mask.  The free action from Coffeeshop Blog works perfectly!