Combining Masks

Once you create a mask using any of the mask tools, you can add to the mask, subtract from the mask, or obtain a mask from the intersecting portion of any new mask that overlaps existing ones.

Note that if the layer contains transparency already defined on the alpha channel, you need to use the Global Apply Mode settings to determine how the alpha channel and mask(s) are combined.

Note: In the Timeline, combined, removed, or intersected masks are differentiated from regular masks by a symbol after the name of the mask object. A (+) indicates a combined mask, a (-) indicates a removed mask, and an (x) indicates an intersected mask.

To combine mask objects:

1. Draw a mask object.
2. Under Global Apply Mode in the Modes controls, select Intersect and enable Invert.
3. From the Combine Mode list, select Add.



4. Select a mask tool and draw the second mask.

The masks are combined.

Note: You can also press Shift while drawing with any of the mask tools to switch to Add mode.

To remove a portion of an existing mask object:

1. Draw a mask object.
2. In the Modes controls, select Subtract from the Combine Mode list.

Note: You can also press Ctrl (Windows) or Command (Macintosh) while drawing with any of the mask tools to switch to Subtract mode.

3. Select a mask tool and draw the second mask.

The second mask is removed from the first.

To intersect two selections:

1. Draw a mask object.
2. In the Modes controls, select Intersect from the Combine Mode list.

Note: You can also press Ctrl+Shift (Windows) or Command+Shift (Macintosh) while drawing a mask that overlaps another mask.

3. Select a mask tool and draw the second mask.

The resulting mask is the overlapping portion of the first and second mask.

To invert a mask:

In the Modes controls, enable Invert (under the Feather slider) to invert an individual mask object. Enable Invert (under Global Apply Mode) to invert the entire mask operator.