Dash of Inspiration: Totally Retro
A Dash of Inspiration, A Cup of Creativity by Doreen
Totally Retro
Definition from Reference.com:
“Retro is a term used to describe, denote or classify culturally outdated or aged trends, modes, or fashions, from the overall postmodern past, but have since that time become functionally or superficially the norm once again. The use of “retro” style iconography and imagery interjected into American postmodern art, advertising, mass media, etc. has occurred from around the time of the U.S. industrial revolution to present day.”
I found the Polaroid Generator Action (link below) for Photoshop this past weekend and started playing with it. It’s very realistic and well done. So in the tradition of ‘pay it forward’, I’m offering the link to all of you and thought I might inspire you to create some fun retro-style cards. I also gathered some useful tools below to turn photos into black and white or sepia toned versions; some great vintage effects tutorials and some Retro Brush resources for those of you who just have to have more! Be sure to read the Terms of Use for each carefully before using any of them in your designs so you can give credit where credit is due!
ENJOY!
Polaroid Generator III by RawImage at deviantART
Black and White Sepia Action by EekMary at deviantART
White and black ps actions by Cat-woman-amy—stock at deviantART
Photoshop tutorial: Apply authentic-looking vintage effects to photos by Graham Boyd
Paint Shop Pro Tutorial: 70’s Retro Look by steves-digicam
500+ Free Photoshop Retro Brushes by Naldz Graphics
GCU Community 
Wish I would have had this info last week before I spent all that time creating a Polaroid frame and experimenting with techniques to create that look. Lol!
Oh no Tracie! LOL! Well, you learned a lot, always something to be said for that!
Doreen
You always provide such great information and resources. Thank you!
You’re welcome Lynne … thanks for stopping by!
Doreen
Note, be sure to use this important and descriptive term in your title, keywords and artist notes description so shoppers can find the exact style the are looking for: “Retro”.
Also note most categories have a subcategory for general cards in this style: Vintage / Nostalgia / Retro
Good to know. Thank you, MIndy 🙂