You can switch between the Tool options by using the shortcut Q. To create a mask or shape, click on the Shape Tool (default is a rectangle). Quick tip: If you see Fill and Stroke in the Tools panel, this tells you will draw a shape and not a mask: Drawing with the Shape Tool in After Effects Now let’s get into creating mask and shape layers…Ĭreating a Mask (layer is selected before drawing):Ĭreating a Shape Layer (layer is not selected before drawing): I suggest checking out these video tutorials from Evan Abrams here and here.Īs always, check the Adobe Help for details and other helpful resources. Shape Layers can be a pretty deep subject. I have a video on using masks here that’s worth checking out if you’re new to AE. They are vector shapes that you can animate to create lower thirds, animated paths and backgrounds.
Think of them as a mini Adobe Illustrator inside of After Effects. The reason the Shape and Pen tools do double duty is that shape layers were added to After Effects in CS3. You create masks or shape layers in After Effects by drawing with the Shape Tool or the Pen Tool: If a layer is not selected, you are creating a shape layer. If a layer is selected, you are creating a mask.
