Is it possible to use a custom shape as a layer mask?

[MazG]

I'd like to be able to set up a page where I have a photo in the shape of a the "flag" custom shape. I realize I can do this using the cookie cutter tool but that actually cuts my photo and what I want is really a layer mask effect where the photo is on its own layer and can be easily replaced still maintaining the "flag" shape.

Is this possible and how would I go about this?

Thanks,
Marina

[Byron Gale]

Marina,

Yes!!!

Create a Custom Shape layer below your image layer, then Group the two layers.

This causes the upper image layer to be "clipped" so that it is only visible where there is content on the lower Shape layer. You can reposition each layer independently to get the look you want.

HTH,

Byron

[MazG]

Thanks Byron! That's exactly what I was looking for. I thought it had to be possible somehow.

Marina,

Yes!!!

Create a Custom Shape layer below your image layer, then Group the two layers.

This causes the upper image layer to be "clipped" so that it is only visible where there is content on the lower Shape layer. You can reposition each layer independently to get the look you want.

HTH,

Byron

[kimi_boo]

Thanks Byron! That's exactly what I was looking for. I thought it had to be possible somehow.

He is such a smart guy... (swoon!) ;)

[MazG]

So while this is the effect I'm looking for, I'm wondering how I would stroke the shape. If I add a white stoke line it just makes the shape that bit bigger as a mask.

How do I put a white outline around the shape?
Thanks,
Marina

[Wendy]

Hi Marina ...

Create a new layer above the existing layer ... Layer>New>Layer

Then Control Click on the shape layer to get the selection
Go to the layers palette and make sure that the new layer you just created is the active layer

.. then do Efit>Stroke Selection :)

Wendy

[TonyW]

Ctrl click on the shape to select it. Now make a new layer on top of the others. Stroke the selection. You should now have a stroke around your masked image on that new layer.

Tony

Just like Wendy said :D

[MazG]

Wow, that is perfect! But it sure makes me realize that there is SOOOO much to know in this program :)

Edited:
Here is a link to the end result. Thanks to everyone that helped me on this.
http://marinagarrison.blogspot.com/2007/09/priceless.html

[ConnieK]

Wow, that is perfect! But it sure makes me realize that there is SOOOO much to know in this program :)

Edited:
Here is a link to the end result. Thanks to everyone that helped me on this.
http://marinagarrison.blogspot.com/2007/09/priceless.html
Your layout is awesome. It is good to know that I'm not the only mom that gets scared when my daredevil 3 yr old climbs.

[cats4jan]

Ctrl click on the shape to select it. Now make a new layer on top of the others. Stroke the selection. You should now have a stroke around your masked image on that new layer

Make sure to control click on the thumbnail of the layer