I have been wanting to learn how to bevel and emboss...and the knock-out effect is much more than icing on the cake.  Helen, your lesson on shadows and highlights using the footprint is extremely helpful.  I learned a ton in this class!

For a time and space saver, I have posted my embossed shape and text together.

Here is my knock-out shape.  The color I chose makes it look a little less "knocked out," I think...although I'm sure a little play and practice with the values would help.  But, I absolutely love these!