Photoshop tutorial help please

[ajf]

I am trying to follow this tutorial:
http://psd.tutsplus.com/tutorials/text-effects-tutorials/how-to-create-copper-photoshop-text-effect/

I have not really used photoshop before. Should I be able to just follow the steps?
There just seem to be some points where I just cannot see or understand what is happening.
For a start, do I start with a black image as it starts off as saying, or with the 'rusty' image?!

The feathering part I can't seem to get my head around either.

Sorry, maybe should give up

Andrew
P.S I am using a trial of CS4

 

[ajf]

Thanks.
Think I'm getting there. lol
Found the issue with the feathering is CS4 doesn't work with 'Select All'.
I'll see how it turns out anyway....