Richard, I assume by now you have explored the depths of PSP 8. In case you still have not been able to solve your problem with the transparency question you posed (#2), try experimenting with layers and use the blending modes. You can get some fantastic effects.

There was a Sams publication, "Teach Yourself Paint Shop Pro 7 in 24 hours" which had a good chapter on this. You might be able to find it in a bargain bin somewhere. (I haven't looked for the same book for version 8.)

My problem with PSP 8 is that the accompanying documentation is extremely limited, providing little guidance on use of some of the advanced features.

The PSP background eraser is another example of a super feature with only limited guidance on its use.

Bob