How to create a torn paper edge in Photoshop

How to create a torn paper edge in Photoshop

Creating a torn paper edge effect in Photoshop is a fairly simple process. However, since a small brush is required, it may take some time when applying the effect to a large image.

The instructions in this article apply to Adobe Photoshop CC for Windows and Mac.

How to create a torn paper effect in Photoshop

You can apply this technique to any image element where you want to create the appearance of torn paper:

  • Choose outil lasso in the tool palette.

    If the Lasso tool isn’t visible, click and hold the third icon at the top and select it lasso Tool.

  • Click and drag to draw a jagged circle around one side of the image.

  • Release the mouse button to complete the selection.

    Make sure the selection runs from top to bottom and outside of the image.

  • ChooseTo edit > Clear to remove the selection.

  • Repeat the process on the other side of the image.

  • Go to Choose > Deselect to remove the selection.

  • Choose See > zoom in to see the edges clearly.

  • Choose smearing Tool Palette.

    If the smudge tool is not visible, click and hold the button Blurred or Sharpen and select wipe tool from the list.

  • Choose brush settings in the top toolbar and set it Cut at 1px and the hardness at 100%.

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  • Place the cursor just inside one of the edges of the image, then click and drag outside the image. You should see a thin line on the outside of the tapered image.

  • Keep painting such lines randomly around the edges of the image. It might not be very impressive at this size, but if you zoom out you’ll see that it creates a subtle effect akin to paper fibers.

  • Once you are happy with the effect, you can save your image as a PSD file or in a format of your choice.