That was really good!! thank you for the time it took to write all this up.

I don't think i've ever used Linear add before so i will have to give that a shot, it's suprising how little you can do to make an icon amazing.

I usually cut out on 200x200px but maybe i should try doing it with full size one of thes days.

I like your lighten layer idea on colors to make it look consistent! that's really cool!