GIMP Questions

[RocketTurtle]

So, I'm fairly good at using GIMP to mess with pictures, but when it comes to drawing from scratch, I'm a complete noob. I have a few questions.

1. How can I make a flame from a rocket engine? The only tutorials are about making "boring" fire... I like fire from rockets!

2. How can I make better looking lines, i.e. smoother... etc.

3. How can I make it have better shading?

4. And finally, this kinda goes with the shading, but how can I make colors look nicer and blend better?

Edited November 24, 2013 by RocketTurtle

[RocketTurtle]

Anyone? Please?

[Dispatcher]

You might repost in the Modeling and Textures sub forum. I don't have answers to your questions, other than to start with a high res solid color background. The rest of it is rather subjective.