Problem with my latest signature [Adobe PhotoShop CS4]

My latest signature consists of a spectrum text, with the points of the end lettering stretched into long lines.

I am fully aware that by creating a new layer, changing the blend mode to Colour Dodge and then using a soft brush, I can create very effective "glow" effects. I have done this before without any problems.

But on this piece, the brush is merely making my text turn into ugly bright colours. I was hoping that perhaps somebody could assist me.

http://i48.tinypic.com/rt3tb4.png

The above is the signature [still needs lots of work - don't worry! xD] and the settings.

The below is the effect achieved after applying the dabs of *supposed* glow.

http://i48.tinypic.com/2h67zet.png


What am I doing wrong? All advice is much appreciated and I am very grateful to those who attempt to help me - this is very frustrating!

-The Fame Monster

Did you try going to blending options and using an outer or inner glow?

a couple of diff options

one:
try duplicating the text layer a couple of times, and do a guassian blur, progressively blurring each layer layer goin back to first layer.
.1 guassian blur, second layer down .2 guassian blur, 3rd layer down .3 guassian blur, etc, to desired glow distance.

two:
do what scribble already said and go to the text layer options by double clicking the layer with text on the right side of screen till you get layer options, then do outer glow at small setting. and inner glow if neccesary.

three:
instead of using a soft paint brush, use the dodge tool in small brush setting, it might be diff effect look.


good luck, its cool sig.

Thanks a lot, but you don't quite understand me.

I need to create bulbs of light on the trails. Orbs, if you will.

Any advice?

-The Fame Monster

Um yeah, use a round soft brush, blending options>outerglow on the trail :) Hope that helped