How do I convert a layer to bitmap or vector?

Updated on



Harmony uses art layers within drawing layers, and each art layer can be assigned as either bitmap or vector. Therefore converting the layer type requires adjustment of the art layers.

Step 1: Open the Layer Properties window

  1. Select the drawing layer with the art layer/s that you want to convert.
  2. Do one of the following to open the Layer Properties:
    • From the top menu, select Windows > Layer Properties.
    • In the Node view, click on the yellow square on the selected node.
    • In the Timeline view, double click the empty space next to the name of the selected layer.
    • Use the hotkey Shift + E.
  3. The Layer Properties window will appear:

Step 2: Change the art layer type

  1. In the Layer Properties window, select the Drawing tab.
  2. Halfway down the window will be the Art Layers section. This shows which art layers are enabled and whether they are set to bitmap or vector.

  1. Using the radio/round buttons, click on the preferred option for the art layers: Vector or Bitmap.
  2. The art layer/s will be converted.
  3. Click on Close when you are done.
WARNING: Changing the art layer type from bitmap to vector will not vectorize bitmap artwork. It will contain the bitmap artwork inside of a vector bounding box and it will allow you to use the vector tools on the layer. If you are interested in vectorizing bitmaps, see Vectorizing Bitmap Artwork for more information.

Was this article helpful?

0 out of 0 found this helpful

Can't find what you are looking for?

Contact Us

Submit a request and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Open a Support Ticket

Ask Our Discord Community

Get answers from our worldwide community of artists and animators.

Join Our Discord Server

Join the Conversations

Connect with us on social media for inspiration, updates, feedback and more.