16.10. Chrome

16.10.1. Overview

Figure 17.394. Example for the Chrome filter

Example for the “Chrome” filter

The Chrome filter applied

Example for the “Chrome” filter

The Chrome logo


This filter is derived from the Chrome logo script (FileCreateLogosChrome), which — according to the script author — creates a simplistic, but cool, chromed logo (see above).

The filter adds this simple chrome effect to the alpha, that is the area of the active layer defined by the non-transparent pixels (think of it as a selection by visibility). The filter effect will always be applied according to the alpha values.

Apparently the effect only looks cool when the filter is applied to thin areas. For wide shapes you can try to increase the Offset value; see the examples below.

[Warning] Warning

The image will always be resized to the active layer's size.

16.10.2. Activate the filter

This filter is found in the image window menu under FiltersAlpha to LogoChrome….

16.10.3. Options

Figure 17.395. Chrome options

“Chrome” options

Offset (pixels * 2)

This option is used when creating the chrome effect and for placing the drop shadow:

Figure 17.396. Offset examples

“Offset” examples

Offset 25

“Offset” examples

Offset 50

“Offset” examples

Offset 75


The filter creates a drop shadow in the shape of the alpha. This shadow will be moved according to the specified offset in relation to the alpha: by 40% of the offset to the right and by 30% offset down. It will be feathered by 50% of the offset value.

The chrome effect will be achieved using some temporary layers. These layers are moved by the same amount (40% and 30% of the specified offset) and are also feathered by 50% offset. So the appearance of the alpha too is determined by the offset value.

Background Color

This color is used to fill the background layer created by the filter. It defaults to light gray. When you click on the color button, a color selector pops up where you can select any other color.