If you're looking to create a paper-like effect from scratch in Photoshop, there are many tutorials available online that can guide you through creating textures and backgrounds that mimic paper.
Because ImageReady was bundled with old versions of Photoshop (like Photoshop 7, CS, or CS2), the only way to get it today is via abandonware sites or torrents. Here is why you should avoid that:
So, where did it go? Is it safe to download old versions from third-party sites? And most importantly, if you need the functionality of ImageReady today, what modern tools should you be using? download photoshop image ready
ImageReady’s best feature was compression. Modern Photoshop still includes this exact dialog box.
The search for is a search for a simpler time in web design. While nostalgia is powerful, installing 18-year-old software on a modern computer is a security nightmare. If you're looking to create a paper-like effect
You can find a variety of paper textures and backgrounds on stock photo websites. Some popular ones include:
When Adobe released Photoshop CS3 (2007), they killed ImageReady. Its features were partially absorbed into Photoshop’s "Save for Web & Devices" dialog (now called "Export As"). Is it safe to download old versions from third-party sites
Websites like or Pexels often have high-quality textures you can download for free. You can search specifically for "paper texture" or "paper background."
This article dives deep into the history of Adobe ImageReady, why it disappeared, and the best modern alternatives for your workflow.