pasting paths between shape layers

Question

I'm going down a rabbit hole of tutorials (not that it's a bad thing, I'm learning some cool functions) and I can't find an answer... Is it possible to copy paths from one shape layer to another? Can I merge shape layers? I have a text layer that I converted to outlines, and I'm trying to add flame-y shapes to the top of the letters that will be then keyframed and distorted through my comp. But, the flames that I drew are on a separate layer and I can't seem to paste them to the outlined text layer.

Is this just not possible? At least these are simple shapes that I can redraw, but I was hoping for a simple Paste Into function...

Rick Gerard · Answer

As long as the layer with the source of the path has not been transformed (moved, rotated, or scaled) you can simply select a path in one layer, Copy, then start a path in another layer with the pen tool by clicking anywhere and Paste. To make sure I always get the right path selected I set a keyframe for the path then cut it (Ctrl/Cmnd + x), or if the path is animated I select all keyframes and copy.

You can also merge shapes, paths, and groups in shape layers. when you do all of the included objects will have their stroke and fill layers overridden and you'll get a new stroke and fill below the Merge Paths operator. You find the shape layer animators and operators to the right of the Add icon at the top of the Shape Layer properties in the timeline.

Let me know if you have any other questions or problems.

Sign up

To post, reply, or follow discussions, please sign in with your Adobe ID.

Sign in to Adobe Community

To post, reply, or follow discussions, please sign in with your Adobe ID.

Scanning file for viruses.

This file cannot be downloaded