Double-click the Ellipse layer to apply the following layer style:

Step 2

Add a Gradient Overlay with these settings:

Check the Dither box

Style: Radial

Angle: 0

Scale: 150%

Check the Reverse box if needed.

Click the Gradient box to create the gradient using the Colors #35378e to the left, #b62789 in the center, and #f15332 to the left.

You can use any other colors you like for the gradient to get different outcomes.

Step 3

We need to move the gradient to the top of the ellipse. To do so, click-drag the gradient fill inside the ellipse.

Step 4

Add a Bevel and Emboss with these settings:

Size: 25

Uncheck the Use Global Light box

Angle: 158

Altitude: 32

Gloss Contour: Cove - Deep

Check the Anti-aliased box

Highlight Mode: Vivid Light

Opacity: 65%

Shadow Mode: Color Burn

Color: #7a7a7a

Opacity: 25%

Step 5

Add a Contour with these settings:

Contour: Cone - Inverted

Check the Anti-aliased box.

Range: 100%

This will create the styled tip that we will use for the Mixer Brush Tool later.

Step 6

Since the styled shape needs to be rasterized to be used for the Mixer Brush, you can duplicate its layer first to keep a copy, hide it, and right-click the copy to choose Rasterize Layer Style.

3. How to Create a Text Work Path

Step 1

Pick the Pen Tool and choose the Path option in the Options bar.

Click to add anchor points, and click-drag to create curves.

Step 2

While you're creating the path, you can press-hold the Command key to temporarily select and adjust the anchor points and their direction lines and points.

Another way to do that would be by using the Direct Selection Tool (A) instead.

When you finish creating a letter's work path, Command-click anywhere outside it.