The Pencil Is Iconic with the Sword

Well, since the semester ended, I have had time to do a few things, like work on my icon for this blog.  I have made a second model icon to try out for this page.  If it doesn't show up at the start, it will appear below as well.  For comparison's sake, I have also included my previous attempt at an icon.  I used the Pages drawing tool to get a sharp angle at the bottom.  I also redesigned the so it would look more like a broadsword.  Pay particular attention to the gleam in the sapphire in the hilt.  I found how to get more points on the star, so it would look more authentic.  I kept the background as white, partially because I forgot how to change it.  Besides, I think this looks a little better this way.

 One thing I did forget to do was add a border around the second icon.  In hindsight, I really should have done that.  Until the words wrap around the image, no one can tell just where the icon ends.  The main problem with this attempt is the "T" in the sword.  It is way too thin.  It should be a little thicker, maybe one size more.  I really like how the sword also mimics a pencil now.  Totally non-intentional, honest.  I just hope that Facebook starts picking up at least one of these images a the design for the link.  For some reason, it has started to pick up an image back from February as the link image.  Unfortunately, it is a rather dorky one of me wearing my newest pair of jeans.  The sort of brown ones that I got on sale for $10.  You got to admit, when you find a pair of Levi's for that cost, and they fit with almost no need for altering, you have to buy them.  Even if they are not in the best of colors.  Still, I have a wide range of shirts that I can wear with them, in both long- and short-sleeves.  I literally have shirts in every color. I'm kind of a clothes hog when it comes to shirts.  And socks.  But that is another topic.  If this new icon doesn't work, I will probably have to break down and get an art app.  So, if anyone out there has any suggestions, send them to me.