Problem removing very similar background colors

[BrickAlley]

Hello Guys,

I'm working on removing the background from this image and it has me frustrated to say the very least. I'm sure there is a simple way to get a clear smooth edged image, but I'm just not figuring it out.

I'm using PS CS5.

I've mostly used the Quick Selection Tool, then opened Refine Edge and while I have managed to get the image picked out a few different times it is so messy where the white wire mesh and the white baseboard are I just can't seem to get it to look right. I've tried everything and some of my attempts would probably elicit some laughter from some of you, but I've just not had any real measure of success.

Maybe some of you can shine some light on what settings I should be using with the Quick Selection Tool.

Size:
Of course I dial it up to get things started and then move it down in size as I get into the delicate areas

Hardness:
Can someone explain more about how this setting affects things?

Spacing:
What exactly does the spacing do?

When I get along the baseboard areas I can't control what gets selected when I get close to the baseboard area. It just wants to grab the entire baseboard when I try to get in real close.

Maybe I need to do this another way and I'm all ears on any helpful suggestions.


I want to fix the picture and I'm positive many of you could whip out the finished image in no time at all, but what I REALLY want to know is how to master this problem so I can get better. Ok, some of you can pick yourself off the floor I really did say that. LOL

For me it's not enough to just get it done, I want to learn how to do it myself!

Thanks in advance!

 

[hawkeye]

Seldom are the quickest tools the best tools. My suggestion would be to use a vector mask with the pen tool. You can adjust it, add or subtract points, etc. to get the selection right. The pen tool is difficult to learn, but it's very worthwhile.

 

[BrickAlley]

Thank you for the reply, I spent a little time playing around with the pen tool and got a really nice looking finished image. I knocked out several other images as well and they all looked great too. Thanks again!

 

[hawkeye]

It's a very powerful tool that most people shy away from, but the more you use it, the more uses you'll discover.

 

[Adrian Velazquez]

ive been learning how to use the pen tool as well, ive found that it has a ton of useful methods and applications... im sure it can do more than ive discovered... curious to know what else it can do...

 

[sumonmg]

Good reply hawkeye. your image clipping path is so nice. ahh very nice .......

 

[hawkeye]

Good reply hawkeye. your image clipping path is so nice. ahh very nice .......

Thanks, but just so we don't confuse anyone, it's a vector mask not a clipping path.

 

[sumonmg]

ok hawkeye.