Using CutOut Effect Problem

[Leslie]

I've come across an interesting issue.
When I attempt to apply the CutOut effect, my entire image turns transparent.
Image is a regular raster layer, nothing selected.

I am using X8 (altho I have had it happen in other versions).
I can't remember what I did to fix the issue.

Can someone help me out?

Thanks so much,
Leslie

[Cassel]

That is normal. If you have nothing selected, it will behave as if the whole image is selected (just like if you used the Delete command).

Now, the Cutout does exactly what it says: it CUTS out the selected area AND can add an edge based on your settings. So if one layer is active, the CUTOUT will cut it out. In order to use that command, you need to apply it to a new, blank layer, unless you want to CUT OUT a section on the image, where there would be a whole or something like that.

Hope it helps.

[Leslie]

Ah, I understand.
I wanted to add an edge.
So, I would add a new layer and apply the effect on that?
Or would I have to "select all" as well?

[Cassel]

If you want to add the edge all around, you can do either one as no selection = select all in this case.
So yes, you would add a new layer.
And if you want to apply the cutout effect in two different directions, you would need another layer every time you apply that effect, or it will cut out the previous one (been there, done that!)

[Leslie]

Thank you so much for the info.
I was getting very frustrated, and almost just chalked it up to the PSP Gremlins.

Appreciate your help. And so quickly, too.

Leslie