How to make a shape into a layer mask

[tv26204078]

I finally figured this out so I thought I'd share. If you'd like a layer mask that follows specific measurements or a shape, follow these steps.

1. Click on your shape and go to Select and Mask (either cmd + opt + r, or right click and select)
2. Use the Quick Selection tool to select the entire shape. Make sure your output is a Layer mask. Click OK.
3. Drag this new layer mask onto the layer you'd like to mask.
4. Go to Select and Mask again, and choose invert. Click OK.

Let me know if this was helpful! Posting so I also don't forget lol. 

[CMass]

Hey @troiv26204078, 

Thank you for sharing this tutorial. Although I must admit that I got a little lost. I think it would be helpful to include images or a video. Can you share more about when you would use this in your work flow and what type of project? 

^CM

[Trevor.Dennis]

When you use the term 'Shape' you imply a vector mask.

If you have an active path, which you might create with any of the shape tools, or the pen tool.

And if you Ctrl click the layer mask icon at the bottom of the Paths panel, it will add a vector mask as opposed to the usual raster mask.

The advantage is that you have a fully sharp and scalable mask that can be edited with the Direct Selection or Pen tool.

You can even use Mask properties to feather the mask or change its density.

The disadvantage is that you can't use filters on the mask, or Alt click the mask to view it full screen.  Not that you'd want to with a vector mask. 

[Jim_Rick6879]

Hey @tv26204078,

Nice walkthrough — it’s always great when users share solutions like this! 🙌

Another quick way to turn a shape into a mask is to simply Ctrl/Cmd + click the shape layer’s thumbnail to load it as a selection, then select your target layer and hit the “Add Layer Mask” icon.

This keeps your mask perfectly aligned to the shape and saves a few steps. You can also convert that mask to a vector mask later if you need scalability or sharper edges.

Thanks for sharing — it’s always cool to see different workflows for achieving the same result.