How-to

Vector Ink Layers Panel Tutorial | Organize Your Designs Like a Pro

Introduction

A well-organized design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about efficiency. The Layers Panel in Vector Ink lets you keep your artwork tidy, making it easy to manage complex logos, illustrations, and UI layouts. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create, rename, and manage layers like a pro so your workspace stays clean and your process stays smooth.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to create, rename, and delete layers
  • How to move objects between layers
  • How to lock and hide layers
  • Best practices for organizing large projects

Step 1: Opening the Layers Panel

The Layers Panel can be found in the control bar on the right side of the screen. On mobile devices, it’s located along the bottom. Tap the Layers icon to open the panel and view the list of layers in your project.

If you only have one layer, tap its thumbnail twice to expand it. You’ll see all the groups and objects contained within that layer — each object can be individually selected, edited, or rearranged.

Step 2: Managing Objects in the Hierarchy

Inside the Layers Panel, each object or group has a grip icon on the right. Use this handle to drag and change the object’s order in the hierarchy. This determines which elements appear on top of others.

You can also toggle the visibility (eye icon) to show or hide objects, or tap the lock icon to prevent accidental edits. These controls are perfect for focusing on specific elements in complex artwork.

Step 3: Editing Layer Properties

Each object or layer has a gear icon that opens additional settings. Here you can rename the object, adjust its opacity, and fine-tune other properties. Always tap Save to confirm your changes before closing the panel.

Naming layers clearly — for example, “Logo Text,” “Background,” or “Icons” — helps you stay organized and quickly locate the elements you need later.

Step 4: Creating, Renaming, and Deleting Layers

To keep different elements organized, add new layers for each part of your design. For example, one layer for your logo, another for background graphics, and another for icons or text. You can rename a layer by tapping its name in the panel, and delete it if you no longer need it.

Moving objects between layers is as simple as dragging them from one layer’s list to another — a powerful way to organize your composition for easier editing.

Step 5: Locking and Hiding Layers

When working on fine details, locking or hiding layers prevents distractions and accidental changes. Tap the eye icon to hide a layer temporarily, or the lock icon to make it unselectable. This is especially helpful when working with overlapping elements or transparent backgrounds.

Pro Tips for Efficient Layer Management

  • Keep it modular: Separate major design elements (text, shapes, icons, etc.) into distinct layers.
  • Use naming conventions: Prefix related layers (e.g., “BG_” for background, “TX_” for text).
  • Collapse unused layers: Keep your view clean by minimizing groups you’re not editing.
  • Leverage opacity: Temporarily lower opacity on background layers to highlight the area you’re working on.

Conclusion

Mastering the Layers Panel is one of the fastest ways to improve your workflow in Vector Ink. It helps you stay organized, minimize mistakes, and focus on creativity — not chaos. Whether you’re crafting a complex illustration or a simple logo, layers keep your project efficient and easy to manage.

Take control of your workspace and experience smoother, cleaner design sessions —

Launch Vector Ink and start organizing your projects like a pro today.

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