I just learned a new trick!!
I’ll explain my “old way” of doing things first.
Let’s say you have a layer in Photoshop and apply a Layer Style (drop shadow, stroke, bevel, etc…). The Layers palette shows which effects you’ve applied (see picture below). Quite often, I find myself needing to duplicate layer effects on other layers.
Now in the “old days,” I would right-click on the layer and choose “Copy Layer Style,” then right-click on the target layer and choose “Paste Layer Style.”
But those days are gone.
Now, I know that I can simply click on the “Effects” text, drag, and drop it on my target layer (actually, slightly “below” the layer – you’ll see what I mean when you try it) – and the effect will be applied immediately!
I am always ecstatic when I find ways to do things that involve less clicking.
By the way, you can also click-and-drag the individual effects to copy them as well. You just click the “Effects” text if you want to apply the whole lot of them.
If you enjoyed reading this post, you’ll love Learnable; the place to learn fresh skills and techniques from the masters. Members get instant access to all of SitePoint’s ebooks and interactive online courses, like Foundations of Photoshop. Comments on this article are closed. Have a question about Photoshop? Why not ask it on our forums?Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Copying Layer Styles in Photoshop
How can I copy layer styles from one layer to another in Photoshop?
To copy layer styles from one layer to another, right-click on the layer with the style you want to copy in the Layers panel. Select ‘Copy Layer Style’ from the dropdown menu. Then, right-click on the layer you want to apply the style to and select ‘Paste Layer Style’. The style from the first layer will be applied to the second layer.
Can I copy multiple layer styles at once in Photoshop?
Yes, you can copy multiple layer styles at once. To do this, select all the layers you want to copy styles from by holding down the Shift key and clicking on each layer. Then, right-click and select ‘Copy Layer Style’. You can then paste these styles onto other layers as described above.
How can I save a layer style for future use?
To save a layer style for future use, right-click on the layer with the style you want to save and select ‘New Style’. You can then name your style and save it. This style will be available for use in future projects from the Styles panel.
Can I apply a layer style to a group of layers?
Yes, you can apply a layer style to a group of layers. To do this, select all the layers you want to apply the style to, then right-click and select ‘Paste Layer Style’. The style will be applied to all selected layers.
How can I edit a layer style once it’s been applied?
To edit a layer style once it’s been applied, double-click on the layer in the Layers panel. This will open the Layer Style dialog box, where you can adjust the style as needed.
Can I copy layer styles between different Photoshop documents?
Yes, you can copy layer styles between different Photoshop documents. Simply copy the layer style as described above, then switch to the other document and paste the style onto the desired layer.
How can I remove a layer style?
To remove a layer style, right-click on the layer with the style you want to remove and select ‘Clear Layer Style’. This will remove the style from the layer.
Can I adjust the opacity of a layer style?
Yes, you can adjust the opacity of a layer style. To do this, open the Layer Style dialog box by double-clicking on the layer. Then, adjust the ‘Opacity’ slider to your desired level.
How can I copy a layer style to a layer mask?
To copy a layer style to a layer mask, first apply the style to the layer. Then, right-click on the layer and select ‘Add Layer Mask’. The style will be applied to the mask.
Can I use layer styles with vector shapes?
Yes, you can use layer styles with vector shapes. Simply select the shape layer in the Layers panel, then apply the style as you would with any other layer.
Corrie HafflyCorrie is the lead designer and developer for PixelMill. This would-be triathlete has a mathematics degree but wishes she had double-majored in computer science and art instead. Maybe next time...
