User Guide

Layers 45
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.
The information in this chapter can help you manage shapes on the Layers palette. For
detailed information about creating and working with shapes, see “Using Shapes” on
page 327.
Floating Object Layers
Floating object layers contain images that can be moved around the layer. For more
information, refer to “Floating Object Layers” on page 45.
Reference Layers
Reference layers are low-resolution representations of other layers. Using reference
layers lets you more easily manipulate standard layers. For more information, refer to
“Working with Reference Layers” on page 69.
Dynamic Layers
Dynamic layers are a class of layers that provide dynamic effects to the underlying
image. Some dynamic layers, such as Glass Distortion and Equalize, interact with the
underlying images in a specific area to produce effects. Other dynamic layers, such as
Liquid Metal, interact with the underlying images as you apply brush strokes.
Dynamic layers are different from other effects because they are distinct objects — you
can access them on the Layers palette and update their controls to modify them at any
time.
This chapter can help you manage dynamic layers on the Layers palette. For detailed
information about creating and working with dynamic layers, see “Dynamic Plug-ins”
in the Help.