Looking for some tips ^_^

Howdy *waves* first post here.. Just looking for some good icon tips. I know my way around photoshop ect but when it comes to icons i cant seem to create anything attractive ;P im use to working with a big space, ect.. Im after some tips if people have any. Eg: a step you always do when making icons, colors, effects, brushes ect.. Just anything you could throw at me that can get me started with icons. =)
Thankies ♥