To move layers behind other layers in Photoshop, you rearrange their order in the Layers panel. The simplest way is by clicking and dragging the layer you want to move to a lower position in the panel stack.
Moving Layers Behind Using the Layers Panel
Photoshop's Layers panel controls the stacking order of all elements in your document. Layers at the top of the panel appear in front of layers below them. To move a layer behind another, you need to place it below that layer in the Layers panel.
Here's the straightforward method:
- Locate the Layers Panel: Find the Layers panel, which is typically situated in the lower right corner of the Photoshop interface. If you don't see it, go to
Window > Layers. - Select the Layer: Click on the specific layer you wish to move behind others.
- Drag the Layer: Click and hold your mouse button on the selected layer's name or thumbnail in the Layers panel.
- Rearrange the Order: Drag the layer downwards in the Layers panel list. As you drag, you will see a thick horizontal line appear between existing layers. This line indicates where the layer will be placed when you release the mouse button.
- Drop the Layer: Drag the layer until the thick blue line is positioned below the layer(s) you want it to be behind. Release the mouse button.
As the reference states, "All you do is grab the layer you want to move, click and hold with your mouse, and drag it where you want it. It will automatically drop behind the layer that you place it under in the panel on the lower left."
Once you release the mouse, the layer's visual position on the canvas will update to reflect its new stacking order behind the layers now listed above it in the panel.
This method works for any type of layer, whether it's a pixel layer, text layer, shape layer, or smart object.
