User Guide

Using Layers and Layer Masks230
Layer Basics
In Corel Painter, layers are objects
that contain image data. Because each
layer is a distinct object, you can move
it around and edit it without
interfering with the image data on the
canvas or other layers. Likewise, you
can work on the canvas without
interfering with any of the other
layers.
Layers can contain two types of
images: pixel-based images and
vector-based images. How you work
with a layer depends on the type of
data it contains—however, all layers
in a document have the following
characteristics in common:
• They are listed on the Layers
palette. The Layers palette
manages the hierarchy of layers
and includes controls for selecting,
hiding, locking, deleting, naming,
and grouping layers.
• You can cut, copy, paste, move, and
align them using the Layer
Adjuster tool.
• They interact with underlying
images based on a specified
composite method.
Pixel-based Layers
You can create pixel-based images on a
layer using any brush variant, with the
following exceptions:
•Water Color brushes
• Liquid Ink brushes
• Brushes that use the Wet method
You can also create pixel-based images
on a layer by pasting or placing an
image.
Layers play a role in more specialized
functions, such as building an image
hose nozzle, embedding a URL in an
image, or creating an animation.
Vector Shape Layers
Shapes are vector-based objects. When
you create a shape with one of the
shape tools (Pen, Quick Curve,
Rectangular Shape, Oval Shape, or
Text), Corel Painter automatically
adds a new layer to the document.
Each new shape becomes a separate
layer; you can group multiple shapes
together or merge them into a single
shape.
Shapes cannot contain pixel
information. To perform pixel-based
operations—such as painting in a
shape with a brush or filling it with a
gradation—you must convert the
shape to a pixel-based layer.
This chapter covers only managing
shapes on the Layers palette. “Using
Shapes” on page 365 contains detailed
information about creating and
working with shapes.
Floating Object Layers
Floating object layers contain imagery
that can be moved around the layer.
For more information, refer to
“Working with Floating Objects” on
page 242.
Reference Layers
Reference layers are low resolution
representations of other layers. Using
reference layers lets you more easily