How to Create Complex Vector Masks in Photoshop

Using Photoshop's pen tool to create a vector mask is relatively easy. Draw the mask with the pen tool and apply the mask to a layer. But what if you want to create a more complex mask that hides part of a shape but reveals some of the area inside (for instance, a donut with hole?) With a little extra effort, you can create vector masks with almost infinite complexity.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Open the Photoshop document. Open the Paths and Layers palettes and arrange them near the document window. Select the layer with you want to mask in the Layers palette to make it active.

2. Choose the pen tool. Make sure the "Add to Path Area" option is selected in the Tool Options bar at the top of the document window (you can also hold the shift key down.) Draw the outer path's outer boundary. The path thumbnail in the Paths menu will show the area inside the path as white, and the area outside as gray.

3. Select "Subtract from Path Area" in the Options bar (or switch to holding the option key down). Add the inside path(s.) Draw the inside path or paths. If the area inside the new path(s) appears gray again, you have added the complex path.

4. Save the finished path. Double-click on the work path in the Paths palette. Type a name for the path in Save Path dialog. This will allow you to use the path for a different selection if you need it layer.

5. Mask the layer. Choose "Current Path" from the Layer menu Vector Mask submenu. You will see the background around the path and through the interior paths.

6. Edit the mask by selecting the path with the direct selection tool. Modify the points and curves. The masked area will adjust to your changes.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to draw a path intersecting two path areas choose the "Intersect Path Areas" option.