http://www.stripegenerator.com/
Generates strips (images that can be used for strip background and ect…), it has a bunch of controls that you can use to see in real time how the strips will look.
The website’s design is nice as well.
http://www.axialis.com/docs/iw/What_is_an_Image_Object.htm
Goes over how to create windows xp/mac looking (3-D looking) buttons and graphics
http://www.maxpower.ca/free-icons/2006/03/05/
Has a list if you scroll down on this page. The list of place that have free icons also tells you what type of license the icons are give as.
Some of the places have some very good icons.