Create A Clipping Mask with Affinity Designer

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a clipping mask in Affinity Designer. Clipping masks are powerful tools that allow you to fill shapes with images and create unique designs without altering your original artwork. This technique enhances your vector design capabilities, making your work more versatile and creative.

Step 1: Prepare Your Artwork

• Open Affinity Designer and create a new document.
• Import the image you want to use as a fill by going to File > Place and selecting your image file.
• Resize the image if necessary by using the corner handles to maintain its aspect ratio.

Step 2: Create the Shape for the Clipping Mask

• Use the shape tools (Rectangle, Ellipse, or Pen Tool) to draw the shape that you want to use as the mask.
• Position the shape over the area of the image you want to display. Ensure that the shape completely covers the part of the image you want to reveal.

Step 3: Create the Clipping Mask

• Select both the image and the shape by holding down the Shift key and clicking on each element.
• Right-click on the selected items and choose Mask from the context menu. Alternatively, you can navigate to the top menu and click on Layer > Mask > Mask to Below.
• Your shape will now act as a mask, clipping the image to fit the shape.

Step 4: Adjust the Clipping Mask

• If you need to reposition the image within the mask, simply select the image in the Layers panel.
• Move or resize the image until you achieve the desired look. The mask will remain intact, only altering the visible portion of the image.

Step 5: Experiment with Multiple Masks

• To create more complex designs, consider adding additional layers and repeating the clipping mask process.
• Each shape can have its own image, allowing for intricate and layered designs.

Conclusion

You have successfully created a clipping mask in Affinity Designer! This technique opens up many possibilities for your vector designs. Feel free to experiment with different shapes and images to enhance your projects further. As you grow more comfortable with clipping masks, you can explore other features in Affinity Designer to take your designs to the next level. Happy designing!