- Open a new Photoshop document the size of the button you want to create.
- Convert the background layer to a regular layer. Photoshop will not allow you to apply Layer Styles on the background layer so you need to work on a regular layer. Do this by double-clicking the background layer in the Layers Palette. Rename the layer and click OK.
- Use the bucket to dump a color on the canvas. Double-click on the foreground color square to choose a color. If you want safe Web colors, click the Only Web Colors choice in the bottom left corner of the window.
- Click the Layer Styles palette. On the drop-down menu choose Bevels > Simple Inner (as example below). Or, try other styles.
- Save for Web.
- Follow steps one and two above.
- Draw a circular or elliptical shape with the circular marquee tool.
- Use a bucket to dump color in the circular area. Double-click on the foreground color square to choose a color. If you want safe Web colors, click the Only Web Colors choice in the bottom left corner of the window.
- Follow steps 4-5 above.
To Add Text to a Button
- Click on the Text Tool "T."
- Click on the canvas (on the button you are creating).
- Create your text.
- Choose Layer Effects > Drop Shadow.
- If you want to change the text, double-click on the text layer (in the layer window - click on the words) to bring the text window up again.
- Use the Move tool to move the text where you want it on the button.
- Save for Web.
Changing the Color of the Button
- Make sure you have the color layer in the layers window selected.
- Use the bucket tool to dump a new color in the button.
- All of the effects will remain the same on the button. Depending on the effects, the button edges may pixelate.
- Save for Web. You can save multiple copies in different colors of a button this way, using only one Photoshop file.
More Information Regarding Button Creation
 | Making Colored Ball Icons |
