Adobe Photoshop CC 2014 v.14.xx - Manual (Page 318)

Masking layers with vector masks
Note:
Add and edit vector masks
A vector mask is a resolution independent path that clips out the contents of the layer. You create vector masks with the pen or shapes tools. For
more information on working with the pen or shapes tools, see Drawing.
Add a vector mask that shows or hides the entire layer
1. In the Layers panel, select the layer you want to add the vector mask to.
2. Do one of the following:
To create a vector mask that reveals the entire layer, choose Layer > Vector Mask > Reveal All.
To create a vector mask that hides the entire layer, choose Layer > Vector Mask > Hide All.
Add a vector mask that shows the contents of a shape
1. In the Layers panel, select the layer to which to add a vector mask.
2. Select a path, or use one of the shape or Pen tools to draw a work path.
To create a path with a Shape tool, click the Paths icon in the Shape tool options bar.
3. Click the Vector Mask button in the Masks panel, or choose Layer > Vector Mask > Current Path.
Edit a vector mask
1. In the Layers panel, select the layer containing the vector mask you want to edit.
2. Click the Vector Mask button in the Properties panel (CC, CS6) or Masks panel (CS5) or the thumbnail in the Paths panel. Then change the
shape using the shape, pen, or Direct Selection tools. See Editing paths .
Change vector mask opacity or feather mask edges
1. In the Layers panel, select the layer containing the vector mask.
2. In the Properties panel (CC, CS6) or Masks panel (CS5), click the Vector Mask button.
3. Drag the Density slider to adjust mask opacity, or the Feathering slider to feather mask edges. For more information, see Change mask
opacity or refine edges.
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