03.Layers, key elements of graphic tools

Let’s start with the most basic elements of Sketch. Graphic design tools typically use the concept of layers. Simply imagine using colored paper. The difference from the real world is that you can use Ctrl+Z.

put layer

Shall we add a square? Select Insert > Shape from the top toolbar and select a square, or press R on the keyboard. Now, when the cursor shape changes, you can add a shape by clicking and dragging on the canvas. You can add artboards, shapes, vectors, text, etc. to the canvas in the same way.

select layer

You can select a layer directly on the canvas by clicking on it, or you can select it from the layer list on the left. You can select multiple layers by holding Shift or Command while a layer is selected and clicking another layer.

move layer

When you move a layer, it automatically aligns to pixels or surrounding layers. Hold down Option while dragging to copy a layer. To repeat a previous copy, press Commnad+D. When moving a hidden layer, holding down Option + Command while dragging will not deselect it.

Resize layer

You can adjust the size by clicking and dragging a combination of hotkeys, or you can fine-tune the size using the inspector. When adjusting the size while maintaining the overall ratio, use the scaling function to adjust the size.

Aligning layers – Align

You can align multiple elements in the inspector. You can align top, middle, bottom, horizontally or vertically.

More about layers – Inspector

The inspector is an area for controlling the properties of elements selected on the canvas or layer list. You can control the position, size, color, line, shadow, and more of that visual element. Depending on the nature of the selected element, the contents displayed differ, and the contents displayed also differ when the status is different, such as when one element is selected, when multiple elements are selected, or when a group is selected.

Fixing the position and size even when the size is changed – Resizing

When using multiple layers as a group, there are times when you need to resize them. At this time, you can use Fix size and Pin to Edge in the resizing tab of the inspector to specify the behavior when the size of the parent group changes.