setting background transparent

[MECS]

How do I set the background of an existing graphic to transparent?  I am using Photoshop Elements 9.

[99jon]

You really need the original file with layers e.g. a PSD or tiff file.

You can start from scratch using:

File >> New >> Blank File

Then set your document dimensions, resolution and choose transparent for the background.

Add your text and/or images.

Then use save for web and choose PNG24 to preserve the transparency.

　

[MECS]

Yes, I know I can do that for a new image with a transparent BG.  But I was wondering how I might take an "existing" graphic and make its white background transparent in Elements 9.  Does anyone know if that is possible, and if so, how I can do it?

Thanks for the response anyway, 99jon.  I appreciate you taking the time to try to assist me.

Dewey

[99jon · Accepted solution]

Use the magic wand selection tool or quick selection tool to select all of the white background then press Ctrl+I to invert the selection.

With your object fully selected press Ctrl+J and a new transparent layer will be created automatically.

Turn off the background layer by clicking the eye symbol in the layers pallet.

[MECS]

OK.  I'll give this a try.  Thank you.

Dewey

[hatstead]

MECS,

Open your picture file

The background layer has a lock icon. Drag that to the trash can - see red arrow in the print screen below

Access the magic wand tool to select the area at issue for you - the white background , then hit delete on the keyboard.

In my example, I selected the sky and deleted it.

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1t2gKSZuRmttZkh61Cq4JK7FoDzG4G0