Simple Photoshop Star Burst Effect

One effect that I really like, especially for a splashy or retro type feel, is the star burst effect.  I think the spinning color adds a lot of energy and can be a fun way to add a little pep.  There are many tutorials on the web but they seem to either be complicated or time consuming.  That said, the two linked above do provide additional flexibility.  The only advantage to this technique is that it is simple and fast.  So let’s start:


1. Create a new file
Here’s an example:

2. Fill the background layer with a color

I chose this color:

3. Get our magic shape

3a. Create a new layer
3b. Set the foreground color to White
3c. Select the custom shape tool






















3d. Select these options:

The key option is the shape.  You want the “Symbols” shape list and the “Registration Target 2” shape.

4. Drag the shape over the layer so the Star Burst covers the whole image
I hold “Shift” so it’s an evenly distributed burst.

5.  Set the layer Blending Mode to “Overlay” and the Opacity to taste
I like ~75% Opacity in this case

6. Slap an image over the center
Like this one:

And you’re done!