Using the Curvature Pen Tool

Using the Curvature Pen Tool

Learn how to work with the Curvature Pen Tool in Photoshop. 

When to use

This tool works best when you are looking to trace a curved section of a shape or an object with the Pen Tool. 

Instructions

Getting Started with the Curvature Pen Tool

• Begin by opening one of the two mug photos from the resources folder.
• Click and hold on the Pen Tool (P) in the toolbar and then select the Curvature Pen Tool.
• You can also press Shift+P to scroll through the different variations of the tool until you have the Curvature Pen Tool selected.
• Click to make your first point somewhere around the top right of the mug.
• Create a second point somewhere in the middle of the top edge to create a second point.
• Next, click to make a third point at the upper left edge of the mug.
• Once you've created your third point, you should have a nice curved line that follows the top edge of your mug.
• You can now use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to modify any of the points or handles to get a more accurate result.

Continuing with the Curvature Pen Tool

• Click on your last point, and then continue using the Curvature Pen Tool to go over the lip of the mug, the side of the mug, and the bottom.
• When using the Curvature Pen Tool, the best results come from having a start, middle, and end point.
• Once you've finished tracing the outside of the mug, repeat this process to trace around the inside of the handle. 

Hints & tips

• Remember that you can always use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to manipulate any of the points or handles along your paths.
• When using the Curvature Pen Tool, try to look for the start point, midpoint, and an endpoint to have more control over the length and direction of your curve.