Accessed by clicking and holding down on the Lasso Tool in the Tools Palette, this tool is a freehand selection tool, but incorporates edge detection functionality, providing the user with a fast and proficient way of selecting motifs. 

Change the Lasso Tool to Magnetic in the Tools Palette by clicking and holding on it and selecting Magnetic from the tool list.

With the Magnetic Lasso selected, the cursor changes to a circle and cross hair, otherwise known as a ‘target area.’

The circle represents the width of the area AVA searches when determining an ‘edge’ and can be resized using your 1 and 2, or [ and ] keys on your keyboard.

To increase the target area press and hold 2, or ], and to decrease it press and hold 1, or [

For designs with high contrast between the motifs and the background, and small target area would be required. For designs with a softer balance between the hues, a larger target areas should be used.

The same technology is used the with the Bucket Tool.

Adding a selection to the Brushes

Selections can be automatically added to the Brushes Window. Simply activate one of the select tools (Rectangular Selection Tool, Lasso Tool or the Magic Wand Tool) and create your selection, then click ^ (control key) and choose Add to Brushes.