Using
Layers
Layers are similar to transparent
paper. Each Layer in a Fireworks MX®
document or image can contain image data that adds to
the image data placed on the Layers below. Effectively,
each Layer is an entire image unto itself within a master
image. By combining these images together, you get what
is called a composite, meaning an image composed of
many different elements, in this case made up of multiple
Layers.
 Every
time
you add a new Fireworks MX®
object or import an image from another source a new
layer is automatically added to hold the content in
your document.
Let's begin by examining the Layers
Panel. It is located on the right hand side of your
work area about mid page.
Transparency
Examine the Layers Panel. The GREEN CIRCLE
layer sits on top of the SEE HOW layer in the stacking
order and in the Document Window. By default, layers
are transparent. Transparency is represented by a gray
and white checkerboard. Clicking the VISIBILTY toggle
(the eye) will hide the content on that layer.
 Creating
a New Layer
To add a layer, do one of the
following:
- Click the New/Duplicate Layer button with no layer
selected.
- Choose Edit > Insert > Layer.
- Choose New Layer from the Layers panel Options menu,
and click OK.
To delete a layer, do one of
the following:
- Drag the layer to the trash can icon in the Layers
panel.
- Select the layer and click the trash can icon in
the Layers panel.
To duplicate a layer,
do one of the following:
- Drag a layer to the New/Duplicate Layer button.
- Select a layer and choose Duplicate Layer from the
Layers panel Options menu.
- Then choose the number of duplicate layers to insert
and where to place them in the stacking order:
At the Top places the new layer or layers at the top
of the Layers panel. The Web Layer is always the top
layer, so choosing At the Top places the duplicate
layer below the Web Layer.
Before Current Layer places the new layer or layers
above the selected layer. After Current Layer places
the new layer or layers below the selected layer.
At the Bottom places the new layer or layers at the
bottom of the Layers panel.
To duplicate an object: Alt-drag
(Windows) or Option-drag (Macintosh) the object to the
desired location. |
