How to Export Icons From Photoshop

If you are working with an image in Photoshop, you may have a need to export a file as an icon of a specific size. These are commonly used in web design. To accurately accomplish this task, you will need to download an icon plugin that can assist you. Once the plugin is downloaded, the steps to export the icon are simple.

Things You'll Need

• Icon Plugin file format
• Photoshop
• Graphic for the icon

Instructions

1. Obtain the Icon Plugin file to export icons from Photoshop. This plugin eliminates the need to use intermediate files when exporting icons. The plugin works with Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows 2003.

2. Open a canvas in Photoshop that is larger than the desired size of the icon. Use even multiples when you plan on resizing. For example, if you want the final icon to be 32 x 32, you might set the canvas at 64 x 64. This large workspace will allow you to create the image you will export as an icon.

3. Create a design you plan to export as an icon. Make sure the design will be clear and effective at the finished size. Play around with a duplicate when resizing. Only resize the original once to preserve its detail.

4. Reduce the finished image to the desired size. The easiest way to resize the image is by selecting "Image Size" from the image drop-down menu and entering in your preferred width and height. This can be done in pixel dimensions or image size. Make sure the resample box is checked and that "Bicubic Sharpener" is chosen. This will give you the most clarity in your icon.

5. Select "Save As" from the file menu and choose a name followed by the ".ico" suffix. Choose "Windows Icon" from the formatting drop-down menu. Save the file to the desired location.

Tips & Warnings

• Download the Icon Plugin (ICO) file format from Super Shareware (see Resources below).

• Visit Minds Over Networks for a few sample icons that might help inspire you when creating your own graphic (see Resources below).

• The plugin also works with Elements, AfterEffects, Premiere, PhotoDeluxe, Corel PhotoPaint, PaintShop Pro, Painter and Photo.