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Layers, Selections & Masks GIMP Tutorials

GIMP layers, selections, masks, layer groups, blend modes, and non-destructive editing workflows for cleaner image composition.

Layers, selections, and masks are the foundation of serious GIMP work. They let you isolate edits, combine images, protect the original, and make changes later without starting over.

Read these posts when you need better control over cutouts, adjustments, composites, text effects, or any project that has more than one moving part.

What You Can Learn Here

Use layers and layer groups confidently

Build cleaner selections and masks

Apply blend modes and non-destructive workflows

August 10, 2026 2 min read

How to Copy a Layer in GIMP

Copying a layer in GIMP can mean duplicating it within the same file or copying it to another open file. Here is how to do both.

August 06, 2026 3 min read

How to Invert a Layer Mask in GIMP

Inverting a layer mask flips what is hidden and what is visible. It is faster than repainting and essential for certain masking workflows. Here is how to do it.

August 03, 2026 2 min read

How to Invert a Selection in GIMP

Inverting a selection swaps what is selected and what is not. It is one of the most useful selection tricks in GIMP. Here is how and when to use it.

July 30, 2026 2 min read

How to Feather a Selection in GIMP

Feathering a selection softens the edges so your edits blend in naturally. Here is how to feather before and after making a selection in GIMP.

July 27, 2026 3 min read

How to Save and Reuse a Selection in GIMP

GIMP can save selections as channels so you can reload them later. Here is how to store a selection, bring it back, and use it across different editing steps.

July 23, 2026 3 min read

How to Delete a Layer in GIMP

Deleting a layer in GIMP removes it permanently from the project. Here is how to do it and how to recover if you delete the wrong one.

July 20, 2026 3 min read

How to Merge Layers in GIMP

GIMP has three different ways to merge layers. Here is when to use each one and how to avoid losing work in the process.

July 16, 2026 3 min read

How to Flatten an Image in GIMP

Flattening an image in GIMP merges all layers into one and removes transparency. Here is when to use it, how to do it, and what to watch out for.

May 06, 2026 2 min read

How to Add a Layer in GIMP

Layers are the foundation of almost everything you do in GIMP. Here is how to add a new layer, name it, and understand the options in the New Layer dialog.

May 06, 2026 2 min read

What Is a Floating Selection in GIMP?

Paste something in GIMP and a "Floating Selection" appears in the Layers panel. Here is what it is, why it exists, and what to do with it.

Read beginner-friendly posts first if you are learning the topic from scratch.
Look for workflow posts when you already know the tool but need better results.
Use comparison posts when deciding whether GIMP is the right editor for a specific job.
Move to the main tutorial library for a broader learning path.

For a wider view of recent articles, category updates, and practical GIMP tips, go back to the GIMP blog homepage.

Layers, Selections & Masks GIMP Tutorials

What You Can Learn Here

How to Use This Category