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# Creating Sparks Soft Effects

Use the Sparks soft effect to apply video Sparks to video elements on the timeline. Sparks soft effects are applied below Axis and Wipe effects. If you want to apply a Sparks effect to an element that contains an Axis or a Wipe effect, you need to contain it first if the result of the Axis or Wipe effect is required by the Sparks. Or, you can apply the Sparks soft effect to a gap above the element containing an Axis or a Wipe effect.

You can use Sparks that require up to four inputs, but you cannot use desktop Sparks. With desktop Sparks, you do not enter a module to create the effect. For example, the SparkBroadcast Sparks that is shipped with the system does not have an editor. It applies the effect directly to a clip you select on the EditDesk and therefore cannot be used as a Sparks soft effect.

To use a Sparks soft effect:

1. Select the element to which you want to apply the Sparks soft effect.
2. If the Sparks you are using requires a matte, click Matte in the Spark quick menu and load the matte.

   A matte container is created.

3. Click the Spark button and load your Sparks.
   TipTo change a currently loaded Sparks, hold Alt when you click the Spark button.
4. Set the input for each layer.
5. Click the Spark button again, or the E button next to the Spark, to enter the Spark Editor.

#### Topics in this section

- Preview FX in the Spark Editor