Adding a new layer in Photopea is a fundamental step in digital image editing, allowing for non-destructive edits and better organization. The easiest way is by using the dedicated button located within the Layers panel.
Adding a New Layer in Photopea
The most direct method to add a new layer involves using the Layers panel, which is typically found on the right side of the Photopea interface.
Using the Layers Panel Button
At the bottom of the Layers panel, you will find several essential controls. Among these, The New Layer button is specifically designed for this purpose.
- Locate the Layers Panel: Ensure your Layers panel is visible (if not, go to
Window > Layers). - Find the New Layer Button: Look at the bottom of this panel. You'll see a row of icons.
- Click the Button: The New Layer button is usually represented by an icon that looks like a folded page or a plus (+) sign. Clicking this button will immediately add a new empty layer on top of the current layer (the one that is selected).
This new layer is transparent, ready for you to add new content without affecting the pixels on the layers below it.
Understanding What Happens
When you click the New Layer button:
- A new, empty layer is created.
- This layer is placed directly above the layer that was active (selected) in your Layers panel at the time you clicked the button.
- The new layer is automatically selected, ready for you to start drawing, painting, or adding elements to it.
Alternative Method: Keyboard Shortcut
For quicker workflow, you can also add a new layer using a keyboard shortcut:
- Press
Shift + Ctrl + N(on Windows/Linux) - Press
Shift + Cmd + N(on Mac)
This shortcut also creates a new empty layer above the currently selected one.
Why Use Multiple Layers?
Working with multiple layers is crucial for flexibility and control in Photopea. It allows you to:
- Edit elements independently.
- Apply effects or adjustments to specific parts of your image.
- Rearrange the order of elements easily.
- Make changes or corrections without damaging your original artwork or previous edits (non-destructive editing).
By using the New Layer button at the bottom of the Layers panel, as described in the reference, or the convenient keyboard shortcut, you can easily build up complex images layer by layer in Photopea.
