There are two main way to create particles: from geometry or from a point in space. There are tools on the Particles tab of the shelf that let you create particle systems. Clicking the Location button will allow you to select a point in space from which to emit particles, and the Source button will allow you to choose a geometry object from which to emit particles.

In addition to these common ways to create particles, you can also create new particles from existing particles using the Replicate tool.

How to use the shelf tools

For more information on how to emit particles, see the following help pages:

	Fireworks	Emits multi-colored particles from a point, which simulates fireworks.
	Location	Emits particles from a point in all directions.
	Source	Emits particles from an object in all directions.
	Replicate	Generates particles from incoming particles.