Pen Tool and Path - Adobe Photoshop for Beginners - Class 14 - Urdu / Hindi

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to effectively use the Pen Tool in Adobe Photoshop. The Pen Tool is a powerful feature for creating precise paths and selections, making it essential for graphic design. This guide will walk you through its basic functions, how to create shapes, adjust colors and strokes, and utilize vector masks.

Step 1: Understanding the Pen Tool

• Open Adobe Photoshop and select the Pen Tool from the toolbar. You can also press the shortcut key P.
• Familiarize yourself with the Pen Tool options in the top menu, including:
  • Shape: Creates vector shapes.
  • Path: Creates a path for selections.
  • Pixels: Creates a filled pixel shape.

Step 2: Creating Shapes with the Pen Tool

• Draw a Shape:

  • Click to create anchor points. Each click creates a straight line segment.
  • To create curves, click and drag to manipulate the direction handles.
  • Close the shape by connecting the last anchor point to the first.

• Practical Tip: Start with simple shapes to practice anchor point placement and curve adjustments.

Step 3: Changing Colors and Strokes

• With your shape selected, go to the Properties panel.
• Change the fill color by selecting the color box next to Fill.
• Adjust the stroke (outline) by selecting the color box next to Stroke and setting the stroke width.

Step 4: Making Precise Selections

• Use the Pen Tool to click around your subject to create a path.
• Once your path is complete, right-click and select Make Selection to convert the path into a selection.
• Adjust the feathering for smoother edges if needed.

Step 5: Utilizing Vector Masks

• Create a vector mask by selecting your shape layer and clicking the Add Vector Mask button at the bottom of the Layers panel.
• Use the Pen Tool to draw a path where you want to hide parts of the layer. The areas outside the path will be hidden.
• You can adjust the mask at any time by selecting it and editing the path with the Pen Tool.

Conclusion

The Pen Tool is a versatile feature in Adobe Photoshop that enhances your design capabilities. By mastering this tool, you can create intricate shapes, make precise selections, and utilize vector masks effectively. Start practicing with simple designs and gradually take on more complex projects to build your confidence. For further learning, consider exploring more classes in the Adobe Photoshop for Beginners series.