Removing backgrounds from images

[Michelangelo "Spike" Scarlatti]

OK, so I am trying to remove backgrounds from images. I post them on devaintart for others to use for their graphics and such.

What I am wondering is there an easy way to get anything that's left behind around the edges? (sometimes theres like white or whatever rough looking stuff.)

I have read to blur the edges. But when I do that, I never know if it's too much blurring or not.

If you remove backgrounds from images you use, how do you go about getting rid of the rough edges?



My programs are:
Photoshop elements 5
Ulead photoimpact
corel paint shop pro photo x2


I've looked for tutorials and such, but I seem to never get the perfect looking png image.


Like here's a sample
the ogirinal

my version


I'm just interested in how others remove backgrounds from images and make them look so perfect.

[BadWolf.]

I think what you have done looks great!
If you are worried about rough edges possibly try feathering the edges. It may help you.

[Michelangelo "Spike" Scarlatti]

Really? Thanks!

Yeah I was just trying to find new ways. Cause the whole blur thing to me doesn't look quite right on all images. Or at least I don't think it does.

I think I've done one image using feathering. Never know how much to set it for either.

[CT]

Looks perfectly fine to me. As the artist who has spent time on it and stared at it for a while, you're going to notice some minor imperfections. Nobody else will notice them though I assure you.

[Nogo]

I agree with Bad Wolf on this one. If you are seeing rough edges, it is because you have looked at it too long.

One thing that helps with some images like that is to do a color fill of the area you are going to cut out with the color you are going to use on the site. Then cut out the object you are wanting to use. If any edges are left, they will be virtually invisible instead of white. When I do this, I use Color Zilla to get the exact color of my background if I am being to lazy to find it the normal way. Then just enter it at the bottom of the color selector. Just remember the last letter. When it inserts the color it will include the #, and the last letter will not show up. Then just erase the # and add the last letter the old fashioned way.

[dannonn]

Very curious solution and looks much better than usual edge bluring. I'm going to experiment with this technique.