You can duplicate a drawing (which is essentially on a layer) in Photoshop in a couple of straightforward ways.
Methods for Duplicating Layers in Photoshop
Here's how you can duplicate a drawing in Photoshop, primarily by duplicating its layer:
Using the Layers Panel Menu
- Select the Layer: Ensure the layer containing your drawing is selected in the Layers panel.
- Access the Menu: Click on the hamburger menu (the three horizontal lines) located at the top right of the Layers panel.
- Duplicate Layer: Choose "Duplicate Layer..." from the dropdown menu.
- Rename (Optional): A dialog box might appear, allowing you to rename the new layer. Click OK to complete the duplication. A new layer containing a copy of your drawing will be created directly above the original one.
Based on the YouTube reference: the video demonstrates clicking the hamburger menu at the top of the layers panel and then selecting "duplicate layer".
Considerations
- Layer Selection is Key: Always verify that the correct layer, i.e., the one with your drawing, is active in the Layers panel before starting the duplication process.
- Multiple Copies: You can duplicate a layer multiple times to create numerous instances of your drawing.
- Renaming: For better organization, especially when you're working with numerous layers, it's advisable to rename the duplicate layers.
Example of Usage
If you have a drawing of a flower on Layer 1
, after duplicating it using the method above, you will have Layer 1 copy
containing an identical drawing. You can then move this duplicate to another part of your canvas without affecting the original flower. This method allows you to reuse assets within the same document quickly and easily.