Can an image be unflattened? - SBB Digital Scrapbooking Forums | Scrapbook-Bytes

scrapchick87 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

I know how to group and flatten images, but once done can they be undone?

Kari · #2 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

sadly, no... it locks it down.... unless you just did it and did not save it yet, you can do "undo"

andyapc · #3 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

I've wondered about flattening an image - when should this be done? I don't know if I've ever done it before, at least not on purpose!

mobayladie · #4 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

The best thing to do is save it as a psd file with all the layers in tact, then save again after flattening the image as a jpg.
This way, you can always change your mind or tweek.

Mom2EllaRose · #5 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

That's what I do - Always save a PSD version. Just in case....

andyapc · #6 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

When are you supposed to flatten an image? What benefit does it serve?

Kari · #7 (**permalink**) 07-22-2004

I flatten an image when I am creating an element to share as png. Since DIP has a different PNG where all layers are there, like PSD files, If another DIP user opens that element, they will have all the "parts" . So, usually, I will flatten it and then save as a new name png.

shelleyrae · #8 (**permalink**) 07-23-2004

Flattening layers is irreversible.
I do it with backgrounds occasionally when I have several layers like text and stuff and only when the layout is complete but i very rarely flatten a complete layout. You can though if you are space concious as flattening teh image will get rid of teh layers and form one image so its doesnt need to store as much information. You should also flatten a copy of your elements that you make and share again to make a smaller file though you should be saving elements as png not PNG plus which is the default for that reason anyway.
If you want to combine the images but think you may want to seperate them again later then just keep them grouped.
Locking the images wil keep them in one place so they cant be moved from where they are positioned but they can be unlocked also.