Quote:
Originally Posted by candlefish
I'm working on a Photoshop layout which has several layers, many with layer effects such as overlay, hard light, multiply etc. My problem is trying to merge a normal layer with a layer which has layer effects, without losing the layer effect. For instance, I have two duplicate layers: the layer below is normal, the layer above is identical but with an overlay effect. When I try merging them into one layer, I lose my overlay effect. I know I can flatten the image and keep all the layer effects, but I want to merge several "layer-effect" layers before the final flattening. I've tried putting them into grouped folders and merging the folders but that doesn't work either.
If there's anybody who knows how to solve my problem, I'd really appreciate knowing the right way to proceed.
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Hi, I think this is what you are looking for. Create a new blank layer beneath the layer that has the overlay effect applied. Then select the layer with the effect and merge it down into the new blank layer "ctrl E". The two layers will merge with the overlay removed, but with the effect still visible. You can then merge this layer with the one beneath "ctrl E", as it will no longer have the overlay effect applied.
The layer with the effect might also need to be rasterized prior to merging with other layers. I have run into situations were type layers or shape layers with layer styles applied are unable to merge without rasterizing them first.
I am curious though. If the two layers are exactly identical, is there any reason to merge the two rather than simply eliminate the lower layer?