Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for Digitizing Watercolor in Photoshop

Step 1: Prepare Your File

• Open your artwork file in Photoshop.

• Unlock your layer by clicking on the lock icon.
  Note: If you plan to resize your image, convert it to a Smart Object first by right-clicking the layer and selecting Convert to Smart Object.

Step 2: Cut Out Your Artwork

• Select the Polygonal Lasso Tool (L) from the toolbar.

• Carefully outline the artwork you want to isolate.

• Press Delete to remove the background.

• Repeat this step for each part of your artwork, separating them into individual layers.

Step 3: Add a Stroke to Your Artwork

• With your artwork layer selected, go to Layer > Layer Style > Stroke.

• Set the stroke size to 5-10 pixels and position it on the Outside of your artwork.

• Choose a contrasting color (e.g., black on a white background).

Step 4: Remove the Background Using the Magic Eraser Tool

• Select the Magic Eraser Tool (E) from the toolbar.

• Adjust the tolerance based on your artwork (start at 20-25).

• Click on the background to erase it.

• If any small areas are left behind, click on them again to clean up.

Step 5: Clean Up Edges

• Switch to the Eraser Tool (E).

• Use the Hard Round brush for sharp edges and the Soft Round brush for smoother edges.

• Carefully erase any remaining unwanted pixels around your artwork.

Step 6: Additional Methods for Difficult Areas

• For areas with similar colors (like white on white), try using the Quick Selection Tool (W) or the Object Selection Tool.

• Use the Quick Selection Tool to select and remove large sections.

• Use the Object Selection Tool for more precise selections.

Step 7: Final Check and Save

• Turn off the stroke layer and check for any stray pixels by toggling the background visibility.

• Once satisfied, save your file as a PNG or PSD with a transparent background.

Step 8: Save Your Digitized Watercolor

• Ensure the background is turned off, so your artwork has a transparent background.

• Save your file in the desired format, usually PNG for transparency or PSD for further editing.

And you're done! You’ve successfully digitized your watercolor artwork.