WSV 3 Tutorial - Background Mask Layer

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of creating a background mask layer in WSV 3. The mask will cover the entire map except for specified counties, enhancing your design with a drop shadow effect. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with previous tutorials for better understanding.

Step 1: Prepare Your Map

• Open WSV 3 and load your map project.
• Ensure you have the counties you want to highlight ready for use.
• Familiarize yourself with the overall layout of your map and the existing layers.

Step 2: Create the Mask Layer

• Navigate to the “Layers” panel.
• Select the option to add a new layer.
• Choose a shape that covers the entire map area, typically a rectangle or polygon.
• Fill this shape with a color that contrasts with your map to make it easily visible for editing.

Step 3: Specify Counties to Exclude

• Identify the counties you wish to keep visible.
• Use the selection tool to carefully outline each county on your map.
• Make sure to adjust the mask layer so that the selected counties are not covered by the mask.

Step 4: Adjust the Mask Layer

• Modify the transparency of the mask layer if necessary to enhance visibility.
• Check the alignment and ensure that the mask properly fits over the entire map except for the specified counties.
• If needed, use the editing tools to fine-tune the shape and position of the mask.

Step 5: Apply Drop Shadow Effect

• Refer back to your previous drop shadow tutorial for specifics.
• Apply the drop shadow effect to the mask layer to create depth.
• Experiment with shadow settings (angle, distance, opacity) to achieve the desired aesthetic.

Step 6: Final Review and Save

• Review your map to ensure that the mask layer correctly displays the intended counties.
• Make any final adjustments to colors, shadows, or positions.
• Save your project to preserve your changes.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to design a background mask layer in WSV 3 that enhances your map visuals. By following these steps, you can create a professional-looking map with a drop shadow effect. For further customization, consider exploring additional tutorials or experimenting with other layer effects in WSV 3.