Designing a flyer in the browser, no software install

Layers are the single most important concept in any design tool. Once you understand them, you can build any design.

What a layer is

A layer is one object on the canvas. A text frame is a layer. An image is a layer. A rectangle is a layer. Each layer is independent of the others — you can move, scale, rotate, or delete one without affecting the rest.

Why layers matter

Without layers, every object would be part of a single flat image. You could not move one element without moving the rest. Layers let you work on each piece independently.

How layers stack

Layers are stacked on top of each other. The layer at the top of the panel is rendered on top of the layers below. In a typical flyer:

1. Background (bottom of stack)
2. Photo
3. Heading text
4. Body text
5. Logo (top of stack)

Reorder layers by dragging them in the layers panel.

The layers panel

In Print Studio, the layers panel is on the right. Each layer shows a thumbnail and the layer name. Click a layer to select it. Drag to reorder.

Common layer operations

• Add a layer: Click the + button
• Delete a layer: Select and press Delete
• Hide a layer: Click the eye icon
• Lock a layer: Click the lock icon (locked layers cannot be edited but stay visible)
• Group layers: Select multiple, press Cmd/Ctrl+G

When to use more than one layer

Always. Even a simple card has at least three layers: background, text, and a logo. More complex designs have many.

FAQ

What is the difference between a layer and a group?

A group is a collection of layers that move and transform together. A layer is a single object.

Can a layer be on multiple pages?

No. Each page has its own layer stack.

What is a locked layer?

A layer that is visible but cannot be selected or edited. Useful for protecting background elements while you work on foreground elements.