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

[ArkReactor]

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.

[Jumpenjax]

Duplicate the layer and delete what you do not need.

[ArkReactor]

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.

[Jeff Arola]

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

[ArkReactor]

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]

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@ArkReactor wrote:

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

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I'm confused:

Your first post: Ctrl+C; Ctrl+V

Jeff's post: Ctrl+J

How are you counting the steps?

Jane

[Jeff Arola]

After you select your shape(s), Ctrl+J or Shift+Ctrl+J to a new layer, you could then select the other layer you want to move the shapes to and merge the two layers by going Ctrl+E (Merge Shapes)

The advantage of this vs cut and paste is using Layer via Cut or Layer via Copy and merge shapes retains any Live Shapes you may have.

[ArkReactor]

Ctrl+J is great for getting the selected shape to a new layer and keeping it on the old. Merging then doesnt work because it gets rid of the effects that I have on the below layer for some reason. 
What I want to do - Ctrl+C and then Ctrl+v
What I have to do - Ctrl+J, Ctrl+X, Ctrl+V or Ctrl+X, Ctrl+V, Ctrl+V.

Ill try make a video. Im dealing with layers with quite a lot of shapes and effects. Some shapes are on multiple layers to get overlapping effects. I was just hoping there was a fix to get back my copy and paste. I could be selecting it wrong but it's the same way Ive always been selecting.

[Jeff Arola]

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

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

[c.pfaffenbichler]

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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. 

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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? 

[ArkReactor]

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

[jane-e · Accepted solution]

@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

[ArkReactor]

That seems to be the only way. Thank you. I feel like thats just as dumb and adds a step. I have to now switch tools in order to do it. Very weird. I thought holding CTRL was basically like switching to the direct select tool. Must not work that way anymore.