How to Use the Clone Stamp in Photoshop (2024)
Learn the essential Clone Stamp workflow to cleanly remove objects like cars or blemishes. You’ll set up the brush, sample from a clean area, paint to replace distractions, and refine blending for a natural result.
Step-by-step instructions
Select the Clone Stamp tool and set basics
Press S or choose the Clone Stamp Tool from the toolbar.
In the Options bar, set Brush size and Hardness appropriate to the area.
Set Sample to Current & Below and enable Aligned for continuous sampling (optional).
Choose a clean source to clone from
Hold Alt/Option and click on a nearby clean texture with similar lighting.
Move slightly and resample often to avoid repeating patterns.
Paint to remove the object
Brush over the unwanted object to replace it with sampled pixels.
Follow edges carefully; use smaller brushes for tight areas.
Resample (Alt/Option-click) frequently to maintain realism.
Refine the blend
Lower Opacity or Flow for gradual buildup in tricky transitions.
Use a softer brush for smooth surfaces and a harder brush for crisp edges.
Adjust brush size on the fly with bracket keys [ and ].
Review and finalize
Zoom in/out to check for repeating textures or seams.
Undo or step back in History to fix mistakes and repaint as needed.
Save your work when the result looks natural.
