Very simple tutorial for PHOTOSHOP users (selective colors) but PSP users don't worry if you skip one step it works for you too.
We'll be going from
to
1. We start with this base:
2. New adjustment layer->Gradient map create a black&white gradient PREVIEW
RESULT:
3. Paste this texture into your icon:
Set it to multiply at opacity 50%
RESULT:
4. Erase some parts of a texture with a big soft eraser tool set at opacity 50%
RESULT:
5. New adjustment layer->selective color (settings are different for every picture but the rule is the same increase black in Neutrals)
My settings: NEUTRALS: 0,0,0,+61
RESULT:
6. Now add some colorfull brushes to make your icon more interesting. I've added this brush:
made by Loleia
RESULT:
We'll be going from
to
1. We start with this base:

2. New adjustment layer->Gradient map create a black&white gradient PREVIEW
RESULT:

3. Paste this texture into your icon:

Set it to multiply at opacity 50%
RESULT:

4. Erase some parts of a texture with a big soft eraser tool set at opacity 50%
RESULT:

5. New adjustment layer->selective color (settings are different for every picture but the rule is the same increase black in Neutrals)
My settings: NEUTRALS: 0,0,0,+61
RESULT:

6. Now add some colorfull brushes to make your icon more interesting. I've added this brush:
made by LoleiaRESULT:
