You can easily change shape properties in Photoshop primarily using the Properties panel.
Here's a breakdown of how to access and use the Properties panel to modify your shapes:
1. Accessing the Properties Panel:
- Go to Window > Properties in the Photoshop menu bar. This will open the Properties panel, usually docked on the side of your workspace. If it's already open, this action will bring it to the forefront.
2. Selecting Your Shape:
- Use the Direct Selection Tool (A) or the Path Selection Tool (A) to select the shape layer you want to modify. Make sure the relevant shape layer is selected in the Layers panel as well. The Properties panel will then display the available properties for that shape.
3. Modifying Shape Properties in the Panel:
The Properties panel allows you to adjust various aspects of your shapes. Common properties include:
- Fill: Change the color or apply a gradient to fill the shape's interior.
- Stroke: Modify the color, thickness (weight), and type (solid, dashed, dotted) of the shape's outline.
- Width and Height: Adjust the dimensions of the shape. You can also lock the aspect ratio to maintain proportions while resizing.
- X and Y Position: Change the shape's location on the canvas.
- Rotation: Rotate the shape around its center point.
- Corner Radius: Round the corners of rectangular shapes. This is a non-destructive operation, meaning you can easily adjust it later.
- Path Operations: Combine or subtract shapes using path operations to create more complex forms.
4. Layer Styles and Effects:
- The properties panel also provides access to Layer Styles and Effects, such as drop shadows, inner glows, and bevels, which you can apply to the shape for added visual interest. Look for the fx icon or layer style options within the properties panel.
Example:
Let's say you have a blue rectangle and want to change it to a red ellipse with a thicker black stroke:
- Select the rectangle layer.
- Open the Properties panel (Window > Properties).
- Click the Fill color swatch and choose red.
- Adjust the Stroke weight to a larger value (e.g., 5 pixels) and set the stroke color to black.
- Use the shape tool (U) to select the Ellipse tool, then draw a new ellipse shape over the existing rectangle shape. Alternatively, you could find a "Convert to Ellipse" type option.
