Lasso tool problem

[pobo35]

I cant figure this out. I've been trying to familiarize myself with all the different tools. I was just using the lasso tool to outline an image in my photo. When I was satisfied and was finished with it, I couldn't get rid of it and go on to do something else. Even when I closed and reopened PSE5, it was still there in the image. It won't go back to the tool bar, so I can use another tool. Or are you only supposed to use one selection tool on the photo. Very confused. I hope you understand this.
Also, has anyone taken the layers course? If so, did they find it worthwhile?
Thank you in advance.
Patty

[michgirl]

Patty -

First the easy part - if you are new to Elements, take the layer course. It is most helpful, not only for understanding the whole concept of layers, but it helps to get acquainted with some of the other tools in PSE. I took that course when I first got PSE and practiced for months & months; recently I took another course and it was amazing to learn so much more & UNDERSTAND what/'how - loved it :D

As for your lasso tool, if you were working with that in selections, normally you can just press escape to de-select. With your selection still active, you can click on any of the other selection tools and either add or subtract from your selection. If you cannot "escape", perhaps you need to reset your tools. If you click once on the tool bar on the icon to the left, you will see "reset tool" or "reset all tools". Select from there.

If that doesn't work, somebody will be along shortly with other ideas. ;)

[pbotto]

There are 3 individual tools under the Lasso tool icon - Regular Lasso tool, Magnetic Lasso tool, and Polygon Lasso tool. I am assuming from what you wrote that you are using the Magnetic Lasso. It really doesn't matter much but to get it to "finish" your selection you must return to the starting point and release the mouse button. You should then get the "marching ants" (technical term for marquee).

Hope this helps.

Phil

[Byron Gale]

Your cursor will remain as the last tool you used until you select another tool from the toolbar. There is no "not-a-tool" cursor.

[pobo35]

Thanks so much. I get it now. I'll take the layers course in a few weeks, when, I'm not so busy, With the holidays coming--I deserve a present.

[cats4jan]

Your cursor will remain as the last tool you used until you select another tool from the toolbar. There is no "not-a-tool" cursor

I select the move tool when I want to get rid of a tool. I find it also helps to select the move tool when you have a problem with another tool. For me, it's kinda like a "quick fix" when a tool won't select.

[ColumbusBill]

Hello,

I am new to the forum and need to learn plenty about elements. Where would I find the layers course and any other courses?

Also, is this forum going away?

Thanks, Bill

[elwoodsusanm]

Will we be able to find this 'layers' course on the new site?:confused:

[hukari]

This site is closing, including the tutorials, videos, courses and other resources. The tentative closing date is sometime after the first of the year. We may be able to migrate the posts of the forum to the new site Jane is working on. In any case, we are hoping that many of the members with their wealth of experience will migrate to this new site. Keep an eye out here or at Jane's blog (http://digiscrapreview.wordpress.com/) for the new site.