How to Use the Lasso Tool to Select in Adobe Photoshop

The Lasso tool in Adobe Photoshop allows you to select an object out of an image by drawing freehand around that object. One would use the Lasso tool to copy, delete or move the object to a different part of the image or even to a new document. Follow the steps below to practicing using the lasso tool to select objects in Adobe Photoshop.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Adobe Photoshop

1. Open Adobe Photoshop and open an existing image onto the Photoshop work area.

2. Select the Lasso tool from the Photoshop toolbox. The button is a picture of a lasso.

3. Click on the outside of one of the objects in your image.

4. Hold down your mouse button and use the Lasso tool to draw entirely around an object in your image until the end of the lasso meets the beginning of the lasso. You now have your object selected and are ready to work with that selection.

5. Click your mouse in the center of the object and move your mouse as you continue to hold down your mouse button. This will allow you to move the whole lasso selection so you can make any minor adjustments to your selection area.

6. Choose "Copy" from the "Edit" menu to copy your object selection into a new layer.

7. Click on the object in the new layer and hold down your mouse to move the object where you want it.

Tips & Warnings

• To make straight lines around your object when using the Lasso tool, hold down the ALT key and click on your end points.
• Press the "L" key on your keyboard to automatically change from the tool you are using to the Lasso tool.