1) FILE> NEW>
2) Set the width and height in pixels
3) Set the RESOLUTION .......
> 72 DPI for screen (Internet)
> 300 for printing to paper or fabric

4) Expand LAYERS palette to keep track of your layers
Note that layers above others are also on top in the image
> also note that you cannot render a background -- double click the title to remove background designation
Play with ...... transparency........ the little eye (turns on/off layer.........trash can ........new layer icon (lower)
don't be frightened to use more layers

5) expand LAYER STYLES  and start creating
6) FILE >SAVE FOR WEB>CHOOSE FILE TYPE  and compression level 
a smaller image file size is best for internet use
150 - 300 resolution for print
 

Setting your image size precisely is very useful when working with tables ....... your image can be constructed to fit the exact dimensions of the cells  that comprise your tables.

Keeping track of your layers is very smart because layers reside on top of one and other and their transparency levels are usually an integral aspect your design.
Layer tips>

• a background layer cannot be rendered (double click to change)

• turn off a layer by clicking the eyeball in a layer

• create and draw on a new layer rather that on existing layers

• remove a layer by dragging it to the trash bin in lower right of layers window

• apply layer styles to customize your fonts and backgrounds