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How to Apply an Outline on Shapes and Images in Photoshop

Published in Photoshop Outlines 3 mins read

Applying an outline to shapes and images in Photoshop is straightforward. Here's how to do it, covering different scenarios:

Method 1: Using the Stroke Selection Command

This method is ideal for adding a simple, hard-edged outline to a selected area or layer.

  1. Select your area: Use any selection tool (Marquee, Lasso, Magic Wand, etc.) to select the shape or image area you want to outline. Alternatively, select the layer in the Layers panel if you're working with a layer containing the shape or image.

  2. Access the Stroke command: Go to Edit > Stroke (Outline) Selection.

  3. Customize the stroke: The Stroke dialog box lets you set options:

    • Width: Control the thickness of your outline.
    • Color: Choose the color of the outline. The default is black.
    • Location: You can choose where the stroke appears; inside, outside, or centered on the selection border.

  4. Click OK: Your outline will be applied to the selected area.

Method 2: Using Layer Styles (for Shapes and Layers)

This method is more versatile, offering more styling options beyond a simple outline.

  1. Select your layer: Select the layer containing the shape or image in the Layers panel.

  2. Open Layer Styles: Double-click the layer to open the Layer Style dialog box.

  3. Apply a Stroke: Select the Stroke option. Customize options like width, color, position (inside, outside, center), and blending mode for more advanced control.

  4. Click OK: The stroke is now applied as a layer style. This differs from the Edit > Stroke method because the outline is part of the layer’s styling, not a separate layer.

Method 3: Creating an Outline Path (for complex shapes)

For complex shapes, creating an outline path might be necessary. This method involves creating a new path and then stroking that path. This is often beneficial when dealing with intricate edges or when higher precision is needed. Details on path creation are beyond the scope of this simple guide, but it is possible to search for tutorials on this topic online.

Example: Let's say you have a circle selected. Using the Edit > Stroke method with a width of 5 pixels and a red color will add a 5-pixel-wide red outline around the circle. Using Layer Styles will allow you to modify the stroke's appearance more dynamically.

Remember to save your work regularly!

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