I used the pen tool to make the frame and wet media brushes for the background.
step 2 of 8
basic brush and dodge and burn
step 3 of 8
I used the grid to help me space the logs, then made copies and rotated them. Same with the binding and branches.
step 4 of 8
I painted a green leaf, then copied, flipped and placed. Used levels to alter the color. Copied the green leaves, moved them and used color adjustment to change the color. Dodge and burn on the logs.
step 5 of 8
Placed the skull, painted some bones and dodged and burned them.
step 6 of 8
Painted snow and ice, added bones of animals, using same technique as with other bones. Painted in astrological signs. Made space for writing.
step 7 of 8
Used the grid to get the angle for the lettering. Used calligraphy brush to write.
step 8 of 8
Used copies of skull and bones, painted ribs, placed. Flipped layer.