Ok, so I figured out how to paste a floating layer onto an existing layer - but it becomes a part of the layer and I can't move it around anymore. I thought I saw in another paid program the ability to move multiple objects around in a single layer - is that not possible with the gimp? Seems like a basic function to me that is a huge time saver is lacking - having to mouse into each layer before you move an object is really frustrating and time consuming

When you copy some image or selection and paste into an image you get a Floating Selection (Pasted Layer) (1) see: screenshot A

You then have a choice, Anchor the layer (2) which merges the pasted item down to the layer underneath it or Make a new layer (3)

If you want to move the pasted item at a later stage make it a new layer.

If you have several layers (4) see: screenshot B and want to move together, click in the layer dialogue to toggle the lock on/off (5) The layers that are locked together will move as one unit. Use the move tool (6) and to prevent accidentally moving the base layer enable Move the active layer (7)

rich: www.gimp-forum.net

...snip...

Seems like a basic function to me that is a huge time saver is lacking - having to mouse into each layer before you move an object is really frustrating and time consuming

Dealing with this separately.

The Gimp move tool will move the layer with the first solid layer it comes across.

Even if you are on say the background layer, enable the move tool, (move active layer OFF)

Click on a solid part of the layer you want to move, that layer becomes temporarily active, click to move it. Let go the mouse.

Returns automatically to original layer.

Do yourself a favour and forget about how PS works.

rich: www.gimp-forum.net

On 01/01/2018 01:21 PM, Maisie wrote:

Ok, so I figured out how to paste a floating layer onto an existing layer - but it becomes a part of the layer and I can't move it around anymore. I thought I saw in another paid program the ability to move multiple objects around in a single layer - is that not possible with the gimp? Seems like a basic function to me that is a huge time saver is lacking - having to mouse into each layer before you move an object is really frustrating and time consuming

I believe the closest thing you will find to what you are looking for in the GIMP is the layer groups function:

https://docs.gimp.org/en/gimp-layer-groups.html

I use this feature a lot - it allows you to create groups of layers that behave /somewhat/ as if they were a single layer with separately moveable parts (each an actual layer) that one can apply filters, layer modes, partial transparency, layer masks etc. to as needed.

As mentioned earlier, the tool sets and workflow in the GIMP are radically different from those in Photoshop - these tools have followed separate evolutionary tracks and although they produce the same end results, the ways of getting there may not be similar at all.

:o)