To create a clipping mask from a shape in Photoshop, you essentially use the shape as a "window" through which an image is visible. The image is only shown within the boundaries of the shape. Here's how you do it, according to reference "Method 1: Basic Clipping Mask Creation":
Steps to Create a Clipping Mask
Here's a detailed breakdown of creating a clipping mask:
- Layer Arrangement:
- Ensure the shape layer (the shape you want to use as the mask) is located below the image layer in the Layers panel. This is critical because the shape will dictate the visible area of the layer above it.
- Select the Image Layer:
- Click on the image layer in the Layers panel to make it the active layer.
- Create the Clipping Mask:
- Navigate to the Layer menu in the Photoshop menu bar.
- From the dropdown menu, select Create Clipping Mask.
- Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut:
- Windows:
Ctrl + Alt + G - Mac:
Cmd + Option + G
- Windows:
Understanding Clipping Masks
-
How It Works: A clipping mask uses the transparency of a layer to mask the layer above. Anything transparent in the shape layer will make the corresponding area of the image layer transparent, and vice versa.
-
Layer Order is Key: The layer below (the shape) dictates the area that shows the layers above, in terms of masking.
-
Editable: You can edit both the shape layer and the image layer separately after the clipping mask is created. You can move, resize, and modify either layer, and the clipping mask will adjust accordingly.
-
Multiple Layers: You can clip more than one layer to a single clipping mask. All layers directly above the shape layer will be clipped into the shape.
Example Scenario:
Imagine you have a photo of a landscape (the image layer) and you want it to appear within a circle (the shape layer).
- Place the circle shape layer below the landscape image layer.
- Select the landscape image layer.
- Use the Create Clipping Mask command. Now the landscape will only be visible inside the circle shape.
