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      Apply Mask to Image in LightBurn: A Comprehensive Guide

      Hide, Crop, and Customize Images for Laser Engraving

      What is Apply Mask to Image?

      The Apply Mask to Image tool allows you to hide portions of an image or create complex engraving patterns by masking parts of the image.

      • Non-destructive Editing: Masking hides portions without deleting them, and the hidden parts will not be output to the laser.
      • Creative Uses: Remove backgrounds, isolate subjects, or divide images into unique patterns.

      Location of the Apply Mask Tool

      • Menu: Tools → Apply Mask to Image
      • Context Menu: Right-click the image and select Apply Mask to Image.

      How to Apply a Mask to an Image

      Requirements for Masking

      To apply a mask, you need:

      1. An Image: The primary object to be masked.
      2. A Vector Object: The mask shape, which must:
        • Be on a Tool or Line layer.
        • Be a closed shape (a path with a single, continuous start and end point).

      Steps to Apply a Mask

      1. Select the image and the vector object.
      2. Go to Tools → Apply Mask to Image or right-click and choose Apply Mask to Image.

      QuickRef-ApplyMaskToImage

      Tip: To permanently crop the image (flatten the mask), select Crop Image instead. This action removes the ability to edit or restore the mask later.

      Editing the Mask

      Adjusting the Mask

      • Use standard editing tools like Select, Edit Nodes, or Boolean Tools to modify the vector object used for masking.
      • Move, resize, or reshape the mask as needed to reveal or hide different parts of the image.

      Ref-ApplyMaskToImage-Editing

      Grouping for Consistency

      Once the mask is finalized, group the vector object and the image to prevent accidental misalignment when moving or editing.

      Removing a Mask (Restoring the Original Image)

      1. Delete the Vector Mask:

        • Select the vector object and press Backspace/Delete.

      2. Remove Mask Command:

        • Select the image, right-click, and choose Remove Mask from Image.

      Ref-ApplyMaskToImage-Deleting

      Flattening a Mask (Baking the Mask)

      What is Flattening?

      Flattening permanently removes the hidden parts of a masked image, leaving only the visible portion. This is useful when aligning masked images with other objects.

      How to Flatten a Mask

      1. Right-click the masked image.
      2. Select Flatten Image Mask.
        • The masking shape will be removed, leaving the image cropped to its masked shape.

      Ref-ApplyMaskToImage-GroupingAndFlattening

      Practical Tips for Masking

      1. Creative Cropping: Use masks to isolate subjects or remove backgrounds for cleaner engravings.
      2. Combine with Wireframe View: If the vector mask is hidden behind the image, switch to Wireframe View or adjust layer order in the Cuts/Layers Window.
      3. Temporary vs Permanent: Use Apply Mask to Image for flexible, non-destructive edits. Choose Crop Image or Flatten Image Mask for permanent adjustments.

      Use Cases for Apply Mask

      • Background Removal: Isolate subjects like pets or people from photographs.
      • Custom Shapes: Use complex paths or grouped vectors for unique engraving patterns.
      • Layer Adjustments: Quickly hide unwanted portions of an image while preserving flexibility.

      LightBurn's Apply Mask to Image tool provides powerful image customization options, making it an essential tool for laser engraving projects.