hehe those are simple effects try multi texturing and mixing textures hell i made a skinnable website interface, wanna c it?
its up to next GOOD, WORTHY site who asks for its use too, chrsers seen it, but its too techy for this kinda site... its pretty much one of the best interface designs on the web too....IM me on aol instant messenger @ zr0c0o1 or stealth1205 if u wana c my work... i can teach u how to do liek 3d reflections using 2d photoshop effects if u want xen, that could really spice up that first picture....