To remove the fill from a shape or path created with the Pen tool in Photoshop, you need to access the Fill options in the Options bar and select the "No Fill" option.
Here's a simple breakdown:
When using the Pen tool to create shapes, Photoshop automatically applies a fill and stroke based on the current settings. To eliminate the fill, you adjust this setting directly in the toolbar that appears at the top of your screen when the Pen tool is active.
Steps to Remove Fill
Follow these steps to remove the fill from your Pen tool path or shape:
- Select the Pen Tool: In the Photoshop toolbar, choose the Pen Tool (P).
- Ensure Shape Mode: Look at the Options bar at the top of the screen. Make sure the Pen tool is set to "Shape" mode (it looks like a small shape icon next to a dropdown). If it's set to "Path," paths themselves don't have fill or stroke; they are outlines used for selections or masks.
- Access Fill Options: In the Options bar, locate the "Fill" swatch or dropdown. Click on it.
- Select "No Fill": A panel will appear showing color options. In the upper left corner of this panel (as mentioned in the reference), you will find the "No Fill" option. It's usually represented by a white or transparent box with a diagonal red line through it. Click this swatch.
Once you select "No Fill," any new shapes you draw with the Pen tool will not have a solid color fill, although they will still have a stroke if one is set. Existing shapes can also have their fill removed by selecting the shape layer in the Layers panel and following steps 3 and 4.
Understanding Pen Tool Modes
The behavior of the Pen tool regarding fill and stroke depends on its mode:
- Shape: Creates vector shapes with fill and stroke properties managed via the Options bar and Properties panel. This is where you control fill color or lack thereof.
- Path: Creates work paths, which are non-rendering outlines. Paths themselves do not have fill or stroke; they are used for selections, masking, or converting to shapes later.
- Pixels: Draws directly with pixels, like a brush, but follows the path shape. Not commonly used for typical vector shape work.
If you are drawing paths with the Pen tool and see a fill appear, it is likely because the tool is set to Shape mode. Switching to Path mode will prevent any automatic fill from being applied during drawing.
Quick Reference Table: Removing Fill
| Action | Location in Photoshop (Pen Tool Active) | What to Click/Select |
|---|---|---|
| Remove Fill | Options Bar (Top of screen) | Click the "Fill" Swatch/Dropdown |
| Select "No Fill" | Fill Options Panel (Appears after click) | Click the "No Fill" swatch (upper left, red line) |
By selecting "No Fill" from the Fill options in the toolbar when the Pen tool is in Shape mode, you effectively remove the fill from the shapes you create.
