
Layers 519
Corel Painter digital workspace, the layer mask is a powerful tool for controlling image
composition and effects.
Layer masks vs. channels
A layer mask is similar to an alpha channel. Both are grayscale images that you can
create and edit. Although the Channels panel provides access to both channels and
layer masks, their characteristics and functions are different:
• A layer mask is attached to a layer, but an alpha channel is independent.
• The canvas can have up to 32 alpha channels; each layer can have only one layer
mask.
• Channels don’t influence the visibility of the canvas image; a layer mask defines
what areas of a layer’s image are visible.
• An alpha channel, when loaded, protects designated areas of an image; a layer
mask does not provide protection.
• A channel is enabled by loading it to a selection. A layer mask can be enabled and
disabled at any time, and it can also be loaded to a selection.
For more information, see “Creating and copying channels” on page 529.
A layer mask for the butterfly layer is created based on its transparency. Black
areas are transparent; white areas reveal the image.
To create a blank layer mask
1 Select a layer.
2 In the Layers panel, click the Create Layer Mask button .
The blank layer mask icon displays next to the layer name in the Layers panel.
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