Clipping Path

1. Preparation

Open an image that you will work with in this tutorial.

2. Clipping Paths

Clipping paths are a vector-based version of a layer mask. They perform the same function as a layer mask, except they contain smooth, hard, edges that do not allow for any shading. Clipping paths work just like a normal path, and thus are excellent for working with clip art and other scalable, vector-based images. To create a clipping path, start by drawing a path on your image with the Pen Tool.

3. Click the Paths tab on the Layers palette. Then select on Shape 1 Vector Mask path - the Save Path tab will pop up when you click on it. The default path name for the new path is "Path 1".

4. Click the upper right button and select Clipping Path.

5. In the dialog, choose which path layer to assign a flatness value. Flatness value determines how closely the path conforms to the curves. The lower the number, the more closely the path will conform to the curves. Enter a value and click "OK"

6. Delete background by pressing the ctrl key + select the path layer and press delete.

7. Fill a background color or anything you like as your background.

FINISHED!

Enjoy clipping paths.