Custom Shape Tool

The Custom Shape Tool gives you access to a library of pre-designed vector shapes that ship with Photoshop. From simple arrows and banners to intricate decorative frames and nature elements, these shapes can be used as-is or customized to fit your design.

Beyond the default shapes, you can load additional shape libraries (animals, flowers, web buttons) and even create and save your own custom shapes for reuse. Each shape is drawn as a fully editable vector layer.

Where to Find It

The Custom Shape Tool is the last tool in the shape tools group. Click and hold the Rectangle Tool icon, then select Custom Shape Tool from the flyout. Press Shift+U to cycle through the shape tools.

How to Use

• Choose a shape: Click the Shape thumbnail in the Options bar to open the shape picker gallery.
• Draw the shape: Click and drag on the canvas to place the shape. Hold Shift to maintain the shape's original proportions.
• Change color: Double-click the shape layer and choose a new fill color from the Color Picker.
• Load more shapes: Click the gear icon in the shape picker and choose from libraries like Animals, Arrows, Banners, or Nature.
• Save custom shapes: Draw a path with the Pen Tool, then go to Edit > Define Custom Shape to save it for future use.

Pro Tips

• Use the Unconstrained option in the Options bar to draw shapes with free proportions, or Defined Proportions to maintain the original aspect ratio.
• Combine multiple custom shapes on separate layers and group them (Ctrl+G) to create complex illustrations from simple elements.
• After drawing a shape, apply layer styles (Drop Shadow, Bevel, Gradient Overlay) to give it depth and dimension.