Plugin to create masks from shape

[Indie767]

Given creating a mask from a shape is horrible in AE - poor size controls - is there a plugin to create masks from a shape that offers real size control? 

[Rick Gerard · Accepted solution]

Vector paths take their position information from the layer boundaries. If you scale, rotate, or move a layer with a vector path when you copy and paste the path, it does not inherit the transformations; it will be in its original position before the layer was transformed in some way.

There are workarounds to compensate for the change in position, rotation, and scale. I would need to see a specific example of a problem layer to give you the simplest solution. 

By far, the easiest way to move a path from one layer to another is to make a copy of the source layer, reset the Transform properties of the copy, copy the path, apply the path to the new layer, then Shift + Parent the new layer to the original layer. The paths will now line up. 

[Indie767]

Thanks, this helps!

[Rick Gerard]

If you just need the transparency you can always use a shape layer as a Track Matte.