Layers and clipping masks

Layers are like transparent sheets on top of each other: you draw the background on one and the figure on another, and you can work on each separately. In the new drawing program, layers can do a lot more than before.

The layer list

To the right of the canvas are your layers: Back, Middle and Front. How many there are in a game is up to the host - up to three. On your own you draw with three.

• Choose a layer: click a row. That's the layer you draw on now.
• Change the order: drag a row up or down.
• Open the menu: click the layer that's already chosen once more.

A layer's menu

• Rename with the pencil next to the name.
• Opacity: the slider makes a layer more see-through. At 0 % it's hidden - its thumbnail then shows a crossed-out eye.
• Filters: blur, sharpen, shift colours and more - see Filters and effects.
• Merge with the layer below: the layer melts into the one underneath. Handy when you need a layer free for something new.
• Clipping mask: see below.
• Mix mode: how the layer combines with what lies below it - Multiply darkens like a shadow, Screen brightens like light, Overlay makes things stronger. Normal simply lays it on top.
• Clear layer: deletes everything on this layer.

All of it can be undone with Ctrl + Z.

Clipping masks

A layer with a Clipping mask only shows where the layer below it has paint. Here's how:

1. On the lower layer, draw a figure, say a fish.
2. Choose the layer above, open its menu and switch on Clipping mask. A small downward arrow appears next to its name.
3. Now paint scales, shadows or stripes over it - generously, across the edge too. Only what lies on the fish stays visible.

Unlike Lock Alpha on the brush, the figure itself stays untouched: if you don't like the pattern, just clear the upper layer. The bottom layer can't be a clipping mask - there's nothing below it.

Good to know

• Clipping masks and mix modes are there in a game only if the host chose the advanced layer functions. On your own you always have them.
• Your layers are kept in the recording: the video at the end shows your picture the way you drew it.
• The other tools and shortcuts are in Drawing tools and shortcuts.