How to Remove Background from a Picture in Corel Draw X7?

Removing the background from a picture in Corel Draw X7 can be accomplished using various methods, but the most effective approach involves tracing the image and utilizing PowerTRACE or manually creating a cutout path. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Import Your Image:

• Open Corel Draw X7.
• Go to File > Import and select the image you want to edit.

2. Choose Your Method: PowerTRACE or Manual Tracing

• Method 1: Using PowerTRACE (For simpler images):

  • Select the imported image.
  • In the Property Bar at the top, click on Trace Bitmap. A dropdown menu will appear.
  • Choose a tracing option that suits your image complexity. Options like "Outline Trace" and "Detailed Logo" are commonly used. Experiment to see what yields the best result.
  • Corel Draw will automatically trace the image, attempting to separate the foreground from the background.
  • Once the trace is complete, you'll have a vector version of your image on top of the original raster image. You might need to ungroup the traced object ( Object > Ungroup or Ctrl+U) to select and delete the background elements.

• Method 2: Manual Tracing (For more complex images):

  • Select the Bezier Tool (or Pen Tool) from the toolbox.
  • Carefully trace around the subject you want to keep, creating a closed vector path. Zoom in for greater precision. This method gives you maximum control.
  • Ensure the path is closed, meaning the starting and ending points connect.

3. Refine the Cutout Path (If Necessary):

• Using the Shape Tool (F10), you can adjust the nodes and control handles on your traced path to refine the edges and ensure a clean cutout. Add or delete nodes as needed.

4. Create the Cutout:

• If you used PowerTRACE: Ungroup the traced object (if necessary) and delete the background elements.
• If you used Manual Tracing:
  • Select both the original image and the closed vector path you created.
  • Go to Object > PowerClip > Place Inside Frame.
  • Click inside the vector path. This will clip the image to the shape you traced, effectively removing the background.
  • Alternatively, select both the image and the path and use the Intersect function located in the Window > Dockers > Shaping docker. This creates a new object with the intersecting shape. Delete the original image and the path.

5. Edit the PowerClip Contents (If Necessary):

• If you used PowerClip, you might need to adjust the position of the image within the PowerClip frame.
  • Right-click on the PowerClipped object and select Edit PowerClip.
  • Adjust the image as needed.
  • Right-click again and select Finish Editing PowerClip.

6. Export Your Image:

• Go to File > Export (or Ctrl+E).
• Choose the file format you want to use (e.g., PNG for transparency).
• Ensure the "Transparency" option is enabled (if exporting to a format that supports transparency, like PNG) to keep the background removed.
• Click "Export."

Key Considerations:

• Image Complexity: The complexity of the image will determine which method is best. Simpler images are often fine with PowerTRACE, while complex images usually require manual tracing.
• Patience: Manual tracing can be time-consuming, but it provides the best results for intricate images.
• Zoom: Zoom in frequently when tracing to ensure accuracy.
• Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different tracing options and settings to find what works best for your specific image.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove the background from a picture in Corel Draw X7.