It might help us help you if we had a bit more background information about the programs you use and how much experience you have. I have a hard time teaching people who have no idea what they're doing and use Paint.
Well... I don't know much about fakes... but I do kno paint SUX!!! go to the thread of free downloadable art softwear... I recommend GIMP... I use it and I'm VERRYYY happy with it