Set options for the shape tools

Set options for drawing shapes and paths using the shape tools.

When you select a shape tool in the toolbox, the options bar at the top of the work area gives you three shape options: Shape Layer, Paths, and Fill Pixels. Shape Layer and Paths are both vector options and give you more freedom to manipulate the shape before you commit it to pixels on the page. You can resize a vector shape, modify its contours, and transform it (for example scale, rotate, or skew it). It is important to understand the difference between these shape options, because the shapes they create have very different characteristics.

Shape Layer  Creates a layer mask. The layer has two components: the shape, which defines the boundary of the mask, and a fill, which appears only within the shape. The Layers palette displays thumbnails for both the shape and fill. The shape is like a window over the fill. If you delete the shape from the layer, the fill fills the entire layer.

Paths  Creates a path, which has no pixels associated with it and which is independent of the current layer. Think of the path as a stencil. While you can use its shape to add a stroke or fill to the image, the path remains separate from those pixels. If you move the path, the stroke or fill stays where it was drawn. You can stroke or fill the same path again and again in different locations and on different layers. Paths are stored in the Paths palette; each path you draw gets added to the Work Path. You can save and name paths to make them easier to select and use.

Fill Pixels  Creates a shape filled with pixels. Once you release the mouse, you can modify the shape only after drawing a selection boundary around it using a selection tool. It is a good idea to draw new shapes on separate layers. This allows you to more easily select, modify, and move them without disturbing other elements in the image.