How to Merge Layers in Adobe Photoshop

Layers are a great tool that you can use while working with Adobe Photoshop, but only if you use them the right way. Too many layers can cause disorganization, increased file size and can slow down Photoshop. There is an option in Photoshop called merge layers, which allows you to merge two or more layers together to help keep you organized and working smoothly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Adobe Photoshop

1. Start Adobe Photoshop and start a new blank Photoshop document.

2. Create two new layers in addition to your background by selecting the "New" option from the "Layer" menu. Then, select "New…" You should now have your background and two other layers.

3. Link your two new layers together by clicking the empty box to the right of the eye icon on your Layers palette for each of the layers. You should see a chain link appear in the empty boxes. The layers are linked together now. If you move one layer, the other layer will now move along with it.

4. Merge the two layers together by selecting the "Layer" menu and then "Merge Layers." The two layers are now merged together. You should notice the two layers are just one layer in the Layers palette.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose "Layers" from the "Window" menu if you do not see the Layers palette or press the F7 key on your keyboard.
• The keyboard shortcut for merging layers is CTRL+E.
• Merge all visible layers by hiding all the layers you don't want merged and then selecting "Merge Visible" from the "Layer" menu or using the SHIFT+CTRL+E keyboard shortcut.