This tutorial is intended for GIMP. Gradient Maps, in my eyes, tighten up the image by applying a specific color in different shades to the edges of the objects. You can either pick one or two different colors to be used for Gradient Maps. Your FG color is for the lighter colors on the sig. And your BG color is for the darker colors. To apply a Gradient Map, first make a new layer on top of all the others. Then go to Edit>Copy Visible and paste it on the new layer. Then choose your 2 colors for the Gradient Map. Remember, your FG color is for light colors, and BG is for dark colors. Now go to Colors>Map>Gradient Map. Once you do this, set the layer mode to overlay and adjust the opacity if needed. *I will edit in differences momentarily*
i tend to make gradient maps to soft light. It really just depends on which effect you are going for. If you arent sure which one to use, scroll through them.
I think overlay has more depth. Soft Light brightens the colors a bit too much. Sometimes, you want a dark gradient map so....
Ha, I love how you made this after you helped me. I guess it's easier to look up a tutorial to something rather than ask someone for some help. I'm glad you did this, I've been messing around with my signature and it's going well.