A layer is like a transparency one can place over an image. It allows one to perform operations without changing the original image--whether drawing, typing in text, or making adjustments.
The Layer Pallette is revealed by selecting, in the menu, Window, and then Layers.
Operations will be performed on whatever layer is selected. A selected layer turns blue. To turn a layer off or on, one clicks on box with the Eye Icon.
The arrow on the right hand side brings up the Layer Menu, which is how one creates new layers, duplicates layers, etc.
Rotating and Sizing Layers
1. To perform any operation on an individual layer, select the layer on the Layer Pallette (see above).
2. To rotate a layer without rotating the entire file, choose Edit, Transform, and then the kind of rotation necessary. One can rotate 180 or 90 degrees, or flip the layer, or one can Rotate less than 90 degrees.
3. If one chooses Rotate, boxes will appear at the top of the screen which will allow one to specify changes to a layer. The amount of rotation will be determined by the number inserted in the box with the Angle Icon. A positive number will rotate clockwise, a negative number will rotate counterclockwise. Hit the check at the right to complete the operation, X to cancel the operation.
4. To change the scale or size of a layer, type the percentage in the boxes marked W: and H:. If you want the proportions to remain the same, click on the links between the two. For futher information on sizing see, Sizing Imges to Match.
5. Paths can also be transformed in the same way.