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Reusing a mask


    You can reuse masks in other layers and compositions. It is particularly useful to store Bezier masks you've spent a long time perfecting. You can even create a project with compositions that exist just to store complex layer masks. Mask shapes are stored inside a composition, not as an external file on your hard disk. When you want to use a mask from another project, import that project into your current project.

To save a mask:

  1. In the Timeline window for the composition containing the layer and mask you want to save, expand the layer and its mask properties.
  2. Do one of the following:
    • To save an animated mask, select the mask keyframes you want to save. For more information, see Setting keyframes.
    • To save a nonanimated mask, select the I-beam for the mask.
  3. Copy the mask or keyframes and paste to a new layer (this can be a simple solid).

To reuse a mask:

  1. Open the composition containing the mask you want to reuse. If you saved the mask in another project, import the project and then open the mask's composition.
  2. In the Timeline window, expand the saved mask's layer and mask properties.
  3. Select the mask path or keyframes.
  4. Copy the mask or keyframes and paste to the new layer.