shape layer not visible?

[llclj]

HI all

It has been a couple of months since I have done much with elements and I guess I have forgotten everything.

I am creating a postcard in elements. I have divided the page into 4 rectangles, to print 4 postcards to a page.

I wanted to draw lines dividing the 4 sections. I used the shape tool to draw the lines. Elements created a new shape layer. I can't view this layer unless I have it selected. That is, the lines I drew don't show up when I have selected a layer other than the shape layer.

When drawing the lines, in the line tool options, "create a new shape layer" is selected and I don't see any way to de-select it.

The shape layer background in the layer palette is dark grey, if that bit of info helps.

I have spent way too much time trying to do something basic - draw a #$^&$%^ line on the page.

Any ideas what the problem is? or a better way to go about this?

Thanks
Lori

[Byron Gale]

Lori,

The Shape tool, including the Line tool, creates a new Shape layer when you use it - and uses the current Foreground color for the contents. So if you did not change your Foreground color to be different than your image background layer, the shapes will not be visible unless you have them selected in the Layers palette.

After setting your Foreground color to something other than the image background layer, I suggest using the Line tool to mark the quadrants. You can set up the Grid to help you place the lines precisely. Then, once you have the two lines drawn (horizontal and vertical), simpify them and merge them.

HTH,

Byron

[llclj]

Thanks, that has done the trick. If I don't use elements for a while, I can't remember the basics and can spend a long time getting nowhere.

[vawitt]

If you just want a line to align elements (not to display on the finished project) then you can display the grid.

First set the grid to your desired specifications. To divide your page in quarters, set the grid to 50% with 1 subdivision.

Access these settings at:

Edit > Preferences > Grid

Next, display the grid:

View > Grid

You'll get an alignment grid that won't print.

Hope this helps.

~Val in snowy IL