How to Cut Out a Background in Illustrator

Removing a background in Adobe Illustrator can be achieved through several methods, depending on the image type and desired outcome. Here's how:

Simple Background Removal: Direct Selection and Deletion

For simple backgrounds, like a solid color behind a clearly defined object, the easiest method is direct selection and deletion.

1. Select the background: Click outside the object you want to keep, then click directly on the background area.
2. Delete the background: Press the Delete key on your keyboard. Repeat this step for any remaining background elements.
3. Export: Click File > Export > Export As, choose your desired file format (like PNG for transparency), and save. This method works particularly well if your background is a single, uniform color. (Based on the reference: Click outside the canvas, then click on the picture's background and press the Delete key on the keyboard to remove it).

Using the Pen Tool for Complex Shapes

For more complex backgrounds or irregularly shaped objects, the Pen Tool offers precise control.

1. Outline the object: Carefully trace the outline of the object you want to keep using the Pen Tool (P). This creates a vector path.
2. Create a clipping mask: Select both the object and the path, then right-click and choose Make Clipping Mask. This hides the background outside the path.
3. Export: Export your image as a PNG or other suitable format to preserve transparency. This method requires skill in using the Pen Tool but provides very precise control over the final result. Numerous tutorials are available online, such as those mentioned in the provided references, to guide you through the process. (Referencing YouTube tutorials linked in the provided sources, such as: Remove Background Adobe Illustrator Tutorial - YouTube and How to Remove Background Image Tutorial | Adobe Illustrator CC).

Image Trace for Raster Images

If you're working with a raster image (like a JPEG or PNG), the Image Trace feature can simplify the process.

1. Import the image: Open your image in Illustrator.
2. Image Trace: Go to Image Trace (Window > Image Trace). Experiment with the presets to find the best setting for your image.
3. Expand: Once you are happy with the tracing result, expand the traced image (Object > Expand). This converts the traced image to editable vector graphics.
4. Select and delete: Now you can select and delete the unwanted background elements.
5. Export: Export your image with transparency enabled. This method is effective for images with relatively simple backgrounds. The reference Image Trace allows you to remove a white background from any image confirms this approach.

Remember to always save your work frequently while using these methods. Different methods will work better depending on your specific image and design requirements.