Type tool layer masks?

[jesshen]

When the type tool is selected in PSE 3, I see in the options bar the Horizontal and Vertical Type tool, then two outline ones that say Horizontal and Vertical Layer Mask Tool.

I tried fiddling with the Horizontal Layer Mask but I couldn't figure out how it was to be used. I did end up with a selection in type. Can someone walk me through this, step by step? I am just curious (and trying to learn).

Thanks,

Jessica.

[Wendy]

Hi Jessica ...

All it does is when you type it simply makes a selection instead of giving you text.

Try this with it

Open up any Photo then create a new layer above it and fill it with a colour
Now pick up the text tool and set it to Horizontal Layer Mask
When you type the rest of the layer goes pink (thats the mask)
Now commit the text (click on the tick at the top of the screen)
You now have a selection
then do Edit>Delete

Not something I use a lot but occasionally its useful :)

Wendy

[jesshen]

Wendy, Hmmmm.... now I see. Its use is more like for cutting out letters of a text. I suppose if the text was large enough that would be useful, otherwise you could hardly see it.

Thanks, now I know what that is and how you can use it. Now to my real projects, that was only a passing question!

Jessica