Method 1: Combining Paths for Unified Movement

How Do You Combine Paths Into One in Photoshop?

Combining paths in Photoshop allows you to treat multiple paths as a single unit, simplifying manipulation and workflow. There are several ways to achieve this, depending on your desired outcome.

This method combines paths for easier manipulation as a group. They remain individual paths, but move together.

1. Select the Path Selection Tool: Press Shift+A until the Path Selection tool is active. It's represented by a black arrow with a small white square.
2. Select Paths: Click on each path you want to combine in the Paths panel. You can select multiple paths by holding down the Shift key while clicking.
3. Click Combine: In the Options Bar at the top of the screen, click the "Combine" button.

Now, moving one path will move all combined paths as a single unit.

Method 2: Merging Paths into a Single Path

This method creates a single, unified path from multiple individual paths. This is useful if you want to treat the paths as a single object for filling, stroking, or other operations. This method is less explicitly described in the sources but can be inferred from the context of merging shapes.

This method requires more advanced techniques and may involve using commands like "Merge Shape Components" after selecting overlapping shapes or other path manipulation tools. The exact steps may vary based on the complexity of the paths and their overlaps. Consult further resources on merging shapes in Photoshop for detailed guidance.

Method 3: Creating a Path Mask

This combines multiple paths to create a single vector mask for a layer. This allows for complex selections and masking effects.

1. Create Paths: Create all the individual paths you need.
2. Select Paths: Select all desired paths in the Paths panel.
3. Create a Selection: Use the paths to create a selection (Select > Load Selection).
4. Create a Vector Mask: Create a vector mask on the layer you want to affect (Layer > Vector Mask > Current Path).

Conclusion

The best method for combining paths depends on your intended outcome. For unified movement, use the Combine button in the Path Selection tool's Options Bar. For creating a single path or a mask, further steps involving selection and merging are needed.