Using the Selection Tool in PaintShop Pro

Learn how to effectively use the Selection Tool in Corel PaintShop Pro for precise Photo Editing. Discover tips for creating rectangular, elliptical, and freehand selections, and how to modify your selections with ease.

PAINTSHOP PRO TUTORIAL

3 min read

Photo Editing that's Real, Intelligent, and Creative

Selection Tool in PaintShop Pro

Corel PaintShop Pro is a comprehensive Photo Editing and Graphic Design Software. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and powerful features, making it a favorite among photographers, designers, and digital artists. The PaintShop_Pro Selection Tool allows users to isolate specific parts of an image for editing. To use it, click on the Selection Tool from the toolbar. Click and drag to create a rectangular or elliptical selection. Use the Lasso Tool for freehand selections. Adjust the selection using handles or modify it via the Selection menu options like feathering or expanding. Once selected, you can edit, move, copy, or delete the area. This tool is essential for precise photo editing and creative designs. Practice various selection techniques to master it and make the most out of your edits. The Selection Tool (also known as the Pick Tool) in CorelDraw and Corel PaintShop Pro, is one of the most basic yet essential tools for manipulating objects in your design.

How to Use the Selection Tool in Corel PaintShop Pro

Using the Selection Tool in PaintShop Pro is very simple. Using the Selection Tool in PaintShop Pro you can achieve some great and unique results. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Selecting the Tool

  • Activate the Selection Tool: You can find the Selection Tool in PaintShop Pro in the toolbar on the left side of the screen. It looks like a black arrow3. You can also press the "F1" key on your keyboard to quickly select it.

2. Selecting Objects

  • Click on an Object: To select an object, simply click on it with the Selection Tool. You'll see a bounding box around the object, indicating that it's selected.

  • Select Multiple Objects: To select multiple objects, hold down the "Shift" key and click on each object you want to select. Alternatively, you can click and drag your mouse to create a selection box around the objects you want to select in PaintShop Pro.

3. Moving Objects

  • Drag the Object: In PaintShop Pro, just Click and hold the left mouse button on the selected object, then drag it to the desired location.

  • Use Arrow Keys: You can also use the arrow keys on your keyboard to nudge the object into place.

4. Resizing Objects

  • Resize Handles: Once an object is selected in PaintShop Pro, you'll see small squares (resize handles) around the bounding box. Click and drag these handles to resize the object proportionally or non-proportionally.

  • Maintain Aspect Ratio: To maintain the aspect ratio while resizing, hold down the "Shift" key while dragging the resize handles.

5. Rotating Objects

  • Rotate Handles: Click on the object and you'll see a circular handle at the top of the bounding box in PaintShop Pro. Click and drag this handle to rotate the object.

  • Rotate with Keyboard: You can also use the "R" key to rotate the object and the "Shift" key to constrain the rotation to 15-degree increments.

6. Additional Features

  • Free Transform: You can use the Free Transform option in PaintShop Pro (usually accessed by pressing "Ctrl + T") to perform more advanced transformations like skewing, distorting, and flipping objects.

  • Alignment Tools: Use the alignment tools (found in the PaintShop Pro toolbar or under the "Arrange" menu) to align objects relative to each other or the page.

Tips for Beginners

  • Practice: Spend some time practicing with the Selection Tool in PaintShop_Pro to get comfortable with its various functions.

  • Undo and Redo: Familiarize yourself with the Undo (Ctrl + Z) and Redo (Ctrl + Shift + Z) commands to quickly correct mistakes.

  • Explore Tutorials: There are many online tutorials and videos available that can provide visual guidance and additional tips.

I hope this helps you get started with the Selection Tool in PaintShop_Pro.

Watch this Corel PaintShop Pro Video Tutorial to understand Advanced uses of the Selection Tool.