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Merging Layers

Using the operations described below you can create new shapes out of overlapping shapes.

• Join layers
• Union layers
• Subtract layers
• Intersect layers

To merge layers, select two or more layers and choose Union, Join, Subtract or Intersect. These options are located in the actions menu (click on the wheel icon in the layer bar) and also under Layers in the main menu.

The result depends on how the objects overlay. Here matter the shape of the original objects and applied geometric transformation. Properties (such as color, shadow, texture, etc.) will be re-applied to the resulting object. The result is a single object (there is an exception for Intersect). Only selected layers are affected.

ATTENTION!

1. The operations combine objects of selected layers together in one new layer. The original layers disappear.
   The resulting object is a vector image created out of vector outlines of the original objects. Text is not text any longer but a vector image and further text editing is impossible.
   
   
2. Don't confuse merging layers with blending layers. Choosing a blending mode, you define how the content of layers will look in the final image. The content of layers stays unchanged.

Note that if you merge an image from the Finder tab of the Layer Content window, the program will use the rectangular shape of the whole image, not the alpha channel (transparency).

To separate the merged layers, either:

• Use the Undo command (Cmd-Z), or
• Double-click on the layer icon to open the Layer Content window. Then click the Split to Layers button.

Join Layers

If the objects overlay, the overlapping area becomes excluded (transparent). Without overlaying, the result is similar to the union operation.

Original layers

Resulting layer

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Union Layers

The resulting layer shape is sum of merged layers shapes.

Original layers

Resulting layer

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Subtract Layers

The shape of the object in the lowest layer is the basis for a new shape. The other objects determine the area(s) that will be cut off. The result is a part of the lowest object that is not overlaid by other(s). If the objects don't overlay, the result looks like the lowest object.

Original layers

Resulting layer

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Intersect Layers

The result is the area(s) where all the selected layers overlap. If there are no such areas, the program doesn't modify the document.

Original layers

Resulting layer