Help! How Would I do This in Photoshop?? [Pics]

[VideoNewbie]

Hi guys i need some photoshop help. does anyone on here have skype? probably would be easier. i would really appreciate it.

i am working on some projects for a school presentation and id like to kick things up a bit with some photoshop


1. How would i create custom shapes like what you see here (ropes, anchors, etc.)





2. Also notice on the image above, how the rope on the right is dusty vintage looking, whereas the rope on the left is much more crisp. How would i create that dusty vintage look? (adjusting opacity would not do the trick)




3.) How do i put images inside of letters like this:






4.) Lastly, how do i draw something by hand and have it appear as a separate layer (without the white of the paper showing up at all) like this: