Thank you both for your responses.
As usual very helpful. I'm on a bit of a steep learning curve with GIMP (no pun intended) so all help is appreciated.
I Actually use GIMP for repainting aircraft in the colours of airlines (usually older airlines) for Flight Simulator 9 and Flight simulator X. It's excellent. There are certain things though that I need to learn to get the best effects to ensure accurate reproductions. Hence the Q's. The metal effects tutorials are particularly relevant and very useful. Not sure if it's appropriate to 'post' some of my 'work here though
Having read some of the Tuts here though, I'm keen to branch out and produce some 'Artwork.' The examples I've seen are awesome!
I'll keep practicing and reading.
Thanks Again
RalphC