What programs is everyone using to make these stunning buttons?

[TheJkWhoSaysNi]

Some of the buttons i've seen are very good, What programs is everyone using to make them? i've tried the button thingy in the gimp, but it doesnt make buttons any where near as good as the ones ive seen here.

[Joseph Fung]

I know any graphics I make are in Photoshop - and I do them by hand, no wizards.

[TheJkWhoSaysNi]

I cant afford photoshop   but I *aquired* paint shop pro 7 (and flash 6 beta). are there any button tutorials for psp?

[scx]

Paint Shop Pro can be quite useful tool too. But the final image depends on the idea and skills too, not just program.

[edit]
Havent seen your second post.

Tutorials for buttons?
However, there are tutorials for PSP. Say - http://www.grafx-design.com/psp_tut.html
but there are just few *only* for buttons. Best thing to start reading them right from the beginning.

Well, just ask if you have any question about PSP.
[/edit]

[Matt Siegman]

I use Fireworks

[TheJkWhoSaysNi]

I just started making a few using bevels, not very good and i know the site looks weird cuz theres 2 different buton types but go to http://www.ud.barrysworld.net/board/index.php to see my first attempt

(oh and i know about the transparency problem i'll fix when i make the rest ofthe buttons)

[scx]

Look nice, though the shine on the left is kinda big, but OK

[Shaun]

I only use Photoshop now that I'm halfway decent at it.  I can't even remember how to use Paint Shop Pro 7.0...it's just sitting here collecting dust now.  I did start with PSP 'cause it was easy to use.  http://www.pinoy7.com has some kickass tutorials on Paint Shop Pro.

I search for "photoshop tutorials" on all the different engines and have a huge favorites folder on just them.  http://www.wastedyouth.org is a good one.