In one embodiment, a method includes generating a visual interaction tool that moves and extends in a three-dimensional artificial-reality environment according to hand and arm movements of a user. It may be detected that the visual interaction tool intersects a predefined region associated with a virtual item of a first type in the AR environment. The visual interaction tool may attach to the first virtual item. A first operating mode for the visual interaction tool may be selected based on the first type of the first virtual item. The first operating mode may be selected from multiple operating modes for the visual interaction tool. A first input from the user may be received while the visual interaction tool is attached to the first virtual item. First operations with the first virtual item may be performed according to the first operating mode and the first input.