PSD Graphics Editor
How to Draw and Edit Shapes in PSD Files Using Aspose.PSD for .NET

How to Draw and Edit Shapes in PSD Files Using Aspose.PSD for .NET

Drawing and editing shapes programmatically in PSD files unlocks automation for templates, batch artwork, and generative design. Aspose.PSD for .NET makes this direct and reliable.

Real-World Problem

Updating or generating vector graphics in PSDs for hundreds of banners, templates, or creative assets is tedious by hand, but easy in code.

Solution Overview

Use Aspose.PSD for .NET to create, update, or style shape layers—modifying fills, paths, and vector properties programmatically.

Prerequisites

  1. Visual Studio 2019 or later
  2. .NET 6.0 or later (or .NET Framework 4.6.2+)
  3. Aspose.PSD for .NET from NuGet
  4. Existing PSD file or plan to generate new shapes
PM> Install-Package Aspose.PSD

Step-by-Step Implementation

Step 1: Load or Create a PSD File 

using Aspose.PSD;
using Aspose.PSD.FileFormats.Psd;
using Aspose.PSD.FileFormats.Psd.Layers;
using Aspose.PSD.FileFormats.Psd.Layers.Shapes;

string inputFile = "./input/sample_with_shape.psd";
string outputFile = "./output/sample_shape_edited.psd";

var loadOptions = new PsdLoadOptions() { LoadEffectsResource = true };
PsdImage psdImage = (PsdImage)Image.Load(inputFile, loadOptions);

Step 2: Locate the Shape Layer 

ShapeLayer shapeLayer = null;
foreach (var layer in psdImage.Layers)
{
    if (layer is ShapeLayer s)
    {
        shapeLayer = s;
        break;
    }
}
if (shapeLayer == null)
{
    throw new InvalidOperationException("No shape layer found in PSD.");
}

Step 3: Edit the Shape’s Path and Fill 

// Change fill color
shapeLayer.Fill = new FillLayer(new GradientFillSettings());

// Edit the path (add a new bezier knot for example)
var pathShape = new PathShape();
pathShape.SetItems(
    new BezierKnotRecord[] {
        new BezierKnotRecord() {
            Points = new Point[] {
                new Point(5, 5),
                new Point(25, 45),
                new Point(32, 42) } } }
);
shapeLayer.Path.SetItems(new PathShape[] { pathShape });

Step 4: Save the Edited PSD 

psdImage.Save(outputFile);
psdImage.Dispose();

Use Cases and Applications

  • Generate vector graphics for templates
  • Update brand shapes in batch across assets
  • Build dynamic artwork for web or print

Common Challenges and Solutions

Complex paths: Use API’s vector tools to script complex shapes.

Visual validation: Always review outputs in Photoshop.

Best Practices

  • Use naming conventions to target the right shape
  • Keep original PSDs for rollbacks
  • Validate output after automation

FAQ

Q: Can I create a new shape layer from scratch? A: Yes—see API docs for ShapeLayer creation.

Q: Are gradients and fills supported? A: Yes—GradientFillSettings and more are available.

Conclusion

Aspose.PSD for .NET empowers creative teams to automate vector editing and shape layer generation in PSDs. For more, see the Aspose.PSD for .NET API Reference .

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