PS - Pen Tool (Part 2)

Part 2: Cutting out an image with the Pen Tool 

You might already be cutting out images in Photoshop but if you’re not using the pen tool, then you are probably doing it wrong! “Why?” you may ask.

1. Accuracy. Using the pen tool enables you select partial pixels. This means that the edges of your selection will always be smooth (no jagged pixel edges). 

2. Options. By using the pen tool there are numerous post options available. You can save the shape, or maybe fill or stroke it.

Do This:

Open your image in Photoshop and using your pen tool trace around the outside. 

• Click and drag on each anchor point to get the right curves -OR- 

• Click around the object (essentially cutting it out with straight lines) and then go back and adjust the curves/anchor points.

Make sure your pen tool is set to Create Path and that the path option is “combine”. 

I’ve chosen a picture I want to cut out. 

• The image below shows the rough work path I lay down first. 

• If the image you are cutting is quite detailed, like mine, zoom in (Cmmd +) and out (Cmmd – ) as you work.

It is EXTREMELY important to close the work path so that it can be made into a selection. 

• This means that your last anchor point must meet up to the first anchor point. 

• Once you have made your way around the object you must click once more on the starting point

• When you get to the starting anchor point it will be marked with a small circle. 

The image below shows a close up of the work path once the curves were created and the anchor points adjusted.

The trick is to know where to put anchor points, and this is something that comes with a little practice. The pen tool does become very easy, but initially it will be slow, so try not to get put off.

Now right click on the work path and select Make Selection.

• Copy the selection (Cmmd + C) and paste it on to another image (Cmmd + V)

The image blends smoothly on the new background.