How to extract detailed work

[mightyfun]

I am currently working with some very detailed Dover clipart for a Victorian project I am creating.

My question is .. Is there an easier way to extract detailed images with a lot of white mixed into them other than tracing around the image and slice out all of the detailed inside work?

I have tried using the Mehdi magic eraser and it does what I want, EXCEPT it doesn't let me alter the color of the image like it would had I truly extracted it.

Any suggestions?

Jen