Elements from scanned items

[evergreen100]

I am new to digital scrapping (scrapping of any kind for that matter) and trying to learn my image programme (PSP7)at the same time. I want to know how to scan something (ie a paper clip or other 3D item) and turn it into a transparent background element for a scrapbook page. My efforts so far have resulted in untidy messes!!! :confused:

[GizmoBird]

My first suggestion for paperclips and other items of this nature is to Google for PSP tubes. They already have transparent backgrounds. There are several ways to remove backgrounds in PSP, such as the eraser, masks, selection, however they all require cleanup. There are tutorials (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/tutorials/tutorials.shtml) here that may help, especially the one one Digital Cutting in Paint Shop Pro 8.1 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/tutorials/psp_extracting.shtml) (I know you have 7, but the theory is the same). Oh, and don't forget to check out the kits here, they are full of elements. Visit Freebies to get an idea of what is contains in the kits.

[moog25]

What I found works best for me is using the free-hand selection too, getting as close as possible and copying to a transparent background.This eliminates most stray pixels in the background. Then I erase what's left, starting with a larger tip and working down. It's time-consuming but rewarding when done. I love using my own elements! ( I find using the selection tool less accurate, unless the background is truly one color without variation, and most are not.)

[GizmoBird]

It's unconventional but this (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showpost.php?p=58023&postcount=4) is what I do a lot of the time.

[Pam]

I have found through competing in the Software Wars here at DSP that drawing an element can be far easier and less stressful than trying to trim around a scanned object. PSP offers so many tools - first drawing, then beveled effects, illumination, geometric and edge effects. There are also ways to get nearly any texture, bubbles, reflection, colorization - I couldn't believe how, by taking something one step at a time (like the camera we were to create), and thinking it through, we had so many great cameras. The biggest challenge is thinking up elements that would enhance a scrapbook page that haven't already been designed. Plus you get the satisfaction of actually completing it yourself!

[Emma]

I use the freehand selection tool set to EdgeSeeker or Smart Edge. I carefully click, click around the object, then Selection>Modify>Feather 1 or 2 pixels, selection>invert then hit delete key. Undo and fix the selection as needed and repeat, or just clean up with an eraser

zoom in, be patient, it's a skill that will get easier with practice

[evergreen100]

Thank you to all of you. I am having a great time trying out all suggestions!!! :)