Using Layers

Layers let you organize objects into groups that can be shown, hidden, or locked independently. They correspond to SAMMI’s layer system where layers map to tab pages in the legacy Format Editor.

Layer Bar

The layer bar appears at the bottom of the StudioWeb canvas. It shows all layers for the current page.

Default Layers

Every new page starts with two layers:

Managing Layers

Creating a Layer

1. Click the + button in the layer bar
2. A new layer is added with an auto-generated name
3. Click the layer name to rename it

Selecting a Layer

• Click a layer tab in the layer bar to make it the active layer
• New objects are placed on the active layer

Renaming a Layer

• Double-click the layer name in the layer bar
• Type the new name and press Enter

Layer Visibility

• Click the eye icon next to a layer to toggle its visibility
• Hidden layers are dimmed in the layer bar
• Objects on hidden layers cannot be selected or edited
• Hidden layers still render in RuntimeWeb unless configured otherwise

Layer Ordering

Layers render bottom-to-top:

• Layer 1 (Background) renders first
• Higher-numbered layers render on top
• Objects on the same layer render in creation order

Assigning Objects to Layers

When Creating

Objects are automatically assigned to the currently active layer.

Moving Objects Between Layers

1. Select the object(s)
2. Change the Layer property in the General tab of the Property Inspector
3. The object moves to the specified layer

Layer Strategies

By Function

By Subsystem

Tips

• Keep the active layer visible while working — you can’t select objects on hidden layers
• Use descriptive layer names for easier management
• Place static background elements on the lowest layer
• Place interactive DDOs on higher layers so they render on top
• Inactive layers show in a muted color (configurable in Preferences)

See Also

• Creating a New Page
• Working with Static Objects
• Adding DDOs to a Page