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I want to copy one shape from a shape layer and it copies the whole shape layer.

Forum|Forum|3 years ago
April 26, 2022
4 replies
3125 views

So in pretty much every verison of photoshop. I keep running into this issue. I have a shape layer with multiple shapes within. I want to copy just one of the shapes to a new layer. I do CTRL + C and create a new shape layer. Then I paste with CTRL + V. It then places all the shapes from the copied layer when I just wanted one shape from that layer. I have no idea how to change it to just copy the one shape. Ive asked friends and none of them have this issue.

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Correct answer jane-e

@ArkReactor

Instead of using the Rectangle Shape tool, can you try it with:

The Path Selection tool "A" (black arrow)
The Direct Selection tool "A" (white arrow)

The two tools share space. Right-click in the tools panel to switch.

Jane

c.pfaffenbichler

Community Expert

I have a shape layer with multiple shapes within. I want to copy just one of the shapes to a new layer. I do CTRL + C and create a new shape layer. Then I paste with CTRL + V. It then places all the shapes from the copied layer when I just wanted one shape from that layer.

How exactly did you select the Shape you want to copy?

Could you please post screenshots with the pertinent Panels (Toolbar, Layers, Paths, Properties, Options Bar, …) visible?

A

ArkReactorAuthor

Participating Frequently

Heres a 2 minute video. I hope this helps a little

CopyPaste_Issue.zip

jane-e

Correct answer

Community Expert

@ArkReactor

Instead of using the Rectangle Shape tool, can you try it with:

The Path Selection tool "A" (black arrow)
The Direct Selection tool "A" (white arrow)

The two tools share space. Right-click in the tools panel to switch.

Jane

Jeff Arola

Community Expert

Here's what i was trying describe as in this video starting at the 6:53 mark

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWkgrMbZc9w

Jeff Arola

Community Expert

If you use the Path Selection Tool to select your shape and then Ctrl+J, does that work?

A

ArkReactorAuthor

Participating Frequently

Yes. I can duplicate the shape to a new layer. That does work.

It isolates it so I can cut it and then add to an existing shape layer more easily. Just still a three step process instead of the two.

jane-e

Community Expert

@ArkReactor wrote:

. Just still a three step process instead of the two.

I'm confused:

Your first post: Ctrl+C; Ctrl+V

Jeff's post: Ctrl+J

How are you counting the steps?

Jane

Jumpenjax

Community Expert

Duplicate the layer and delete what you do not need.

Lee- Graphic Designer, Print Specialist, Photographer

A

ArkReactorAuthor

Participating Frequently

That is one work around I can do. The other work-a-round I discovered is to Cut what I need. Paste it. Then move to the layer I want it on and Paste it again. This isnt how photoshop should work. I havent had this issue in the ten years Ive been using it. I was just wondering how I fix it.

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