Can you apply a mask to a layer effect?

[mistercitizen]

Is it possible to apply a mask to an effect on a layer only, without masking the original layer features themself?

For example, I have a layer which I've then applied a "stroke" layer effect to. How can I mask parts of the stroke without affecting the original layer?

I'd really like to know if this is possible, or if your work-around is better than mine.

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Dweezel]

You can use 'Create Layer' to put the effect on its own layer. This method doesn't work for all layer effects, but for thinks like drop shadows, strokes, glows etc it works fine.

Select the layer that contains the stroke effect then click on Layer > Layer Style > Create Layer. Your stroke will now be on a seperate layer and can be masked the usual way.

P.S. You can also create a stroke without using layer effects at all. Create a selection and click Edit > Stroke.

 

[barehug]

You could also try applying a gradient stroke instead of a solid colour - with 1 colour of the gradient having 0% opacity - and then play around with the type(radial, linear etc)/size and position of the Gradient.

Note: whilst in the gradient layer style dialogue, drag the cursor about the image to move the gradients placement.

Moe: It could have been a real ugly situation, but luckily I managed to shoot him in the spine.