To edit a rounded rectangle in Photoshop after you've created it, the primary method is using the Properties panel.
Once you have created a rounded rectangle using the Rounded Rectangle Tool, it appears as a shape layer in your Layers panel. Unlike rasterized shapes, shape layers remain fully editable.
Editing a Rounded Rectangle
The key to modifying a rounded rectangle is the Properties panel. If the panel isn't visible, you can open it by going to Window > Properties.
- Select the Shape Layer: Make sure the rounded rectangle layer is selected in the Layers panel.
- Access Properties: With the layer selected, the Properties panel will display options specific to that shape layer.
- Adjust Shape Attributes: You'll notice if you click and drag down on your properties panel, you'll find various controls. These controls allow you to modify the shape's appearance and dimensions precisely. This is how you can make it exactly the way you want it.
Key Editable Properties
The Properties panel gives you control over several aspects of your rounded rectangle:
- Dimensions: Change the width and height of the rectangle.
- Position: Adjust the X and Y coordinates of the shape on the canvas.
- Fill: Modify the color, gradient, or pattern filling the shape.
- Stroke: Add or edit the stroke (outline) around the shape, including color, width, and type (solid, dashed, dotted).
- Corner Radius: This is crucial for rounded rectangles. You can adjust the radius of the rounded corners.
Editing Corner Radius
Editing the corner radius is a common task for rounded rectangles:
- Find the "Live Shape Properties" section in the Properties panel.
- You will see icons representing the four corners (top-left, top-right, bottom-right, bottom-left) and input fields next to them.
- By default, the corners are usually linked (indicated by a chain icon). This means changing one radius value changes all four simultaneously.
- Click the chain icon to unlink the corners if you want to edit each corner's radius independently.
- Enter numerical values or use the provided sliders/scrubbers next to each corner icon to set the radius.
By utilizing the Properties panel, you maintain the shape's vector properties, allowing for non-destructive editing and ensuring sharp edges regardless of scaling.
