In a general aspect, a method can include: receiving, by an electronic device, data defining an augmented reality (AR) environment; receiving an indication to place an AR object on a reference surface in the AR environment; in response to the indication, displaying the AR object on the reference surface in the AR environment; performing a first gesture on an input device of the electronic device; in response to the first gesture, elevating the AR object a distance above the reference surface in the AR environment; performing a second gesture on the input device of the electronic device; and in response to the second gesture, moving the AR object in the AR environment.