Can the Clone Stamp tool be sampled from a preset path?

[Sybanee]

Basically, can the clone stamp tool be sampled from a path I set before I begin to use the brush?

What I'm trying to do is write in neon (I know this can be done in simpler/different ways, but I'd like to know if this way is possible). I'm using this sign with the cursive "F" and my end goal is to write a G in neon. What I want to be able to do is set up a sampling path from the curves of the F and then be able to use the brush to write a G.

The only thing I can think of that does something like this is the Clone Stamp tool. Any other tools/methods like this?

Neon F reference image....https://img1.etsystatic.com/015/0/7660034/il_570xN.411296573_6r11.jpg

[Barbara Ash]

The Clone Stamp tool would not work well for this use.

You could try using the Brush tool with a neon brush. You could make your own neon brush or maybe find one on the web. If you make your own, it should look similar to this, 3 soft circles:

In the Brushes panel under Shape Dynamics, you'll need to set the Angle Jitter to Direction. And, you'll need to change Spacing, under Brush Tip Shape, to 1%.

[Barb Binder]

I'd like to know if this way is possible.

No. The clone stamp tool will sample pixels and copy them to a new area, which is awesome for retouching and repairing images, but no you won't be able to draw an G in neon with the clone stamp tool, starting from the F.

I know this can be done in simpler/different ways

There are some easy-to-follow tutorials online that show how to add neon to your type, which I am happy to share, if you are interested.

[Barbara Ash]

As you mentioned, there are tutorials on the web that use simpler methods -- mostly layer styles to simulate neon. Why not go the easier route if it looks good to you?

[Sybanee]

It's more that this project sparked the question because it's something I've thought about before. I have no issue creating a neon brush, editing a G to look neon, or using any other method to make this work.

It's just a feature that I would frequently use in other projects for my work if it were available as I often find I want to recreate an effect exactly without going through the process of making all the layers, brushes, etc (often because the art I'm working on is not originally mine and/or the layers have been merged/flattened, keeping me from easily making tweaks). The clone stamp tool is pretty much the go-to for these needs, I just thought it might be interesting to learn if there were a way to create a preplanned path for the tool.

Thanks to both of you!

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Are you familiar with Puppet Warp?

[Sybanee]

Yeah, and that's a good suggestion. It's not a great tool for my style though as it makes everything look pretty "puppetted" no surprise, kind of has a Monty Python feel on its own.

Maybe if I play around with it plus the clone stamp it could cut time down. Still wish there were a way to do a path with the clone stamp, but the puppet warp might have some nice unexpected effects.