Rectangle tool not working like before [2018]

[BellyBuckle9]

Hey all.

How can I simply draw a rectangle, as in previous versions, and have it become its own editable layer?

As it is, I have to create a layer first, then draw the rectangle overtop of it, and then I can't edit its colour anymore. So to be clear: I can't click the layer with the rectangle tool and change the colour in the properties panel like before.

Also, in the previous version, I was able to draw a rectangle right overtop of a smart object photo and it would just create its own layer. Now it won't let me, as it thinks I'm trying to draw it into the smart object.

B.

[Chuck Uebele · Accepted solution]

Make sure it's set to shape layer.

[BellyBuckle9]

Thanks Chuck!!

B

[Sheika80]

mine is set to shape...but when I click the rectangle tool...it won't allow me to drag it to the size I want.  It keeps giving me a pop up and the option to have a 100px by 100px sqaure.  And then if I try to resize that, it won't allow me to change the size.  Any suggestions for that?

[jane-e]

Hi @Sheika80 

Look in your options bar and see if you have a preset size of 100 x 100 or a 1:1 ratio. Reset the tool by right-clicking it in the options bar (not Tools panel), then choose Reset tool.

~ Jane

[roxannec58393265]

Did all which was suggested: reset tool, make sure new layer was selected on tool bar PLUS close and restart PS

[PECourtejoie]

Hi, @roxannec58393265 You get that popup when you double-click on the image.

If you did reset the tool, and are sure not to double click, then try to restore your preferences to the default using this manual method:
https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/preferences.html#Manually it lets you keep a copy on the desktop that you can use to revert the process.