PricingSave big

Image to layers: separate an image into editable parts

Turn a flat image into editable layers with Picsart. Separate the visual elements, then move, resize, and rearrange the parts for your next design.

Separate into layers
  • Rearrange without rebuilding
Example design showing individual furniture cutouts and an assembled graphic

A flat image or a layered composition?

An image layer separator gives you a different way to work with the visible parts of a picture. Choose layers when the arrangement needs to change.

A flat imageThe picture is one combined element.
Move or resize the whole image
Keep the existing composition together
Use a cutout or removal tool for a specific edit
Separated image layersWork with a new breakdown of the visible elements.
Move or resize separated parts individually
Try a different arrangement of the composition
Review edges and overlaps before using the result

How to separate an image into layers

Open the sample, review the separated parts, and try a new arrangement. The visuals illustrate related editing possibilities in Picsart.

How to

Start with an image

Choose a photo or design you have permission to edit. Try the sample image to explore Picsart’s layer-separation workflow.

Separate into layers
Illustrative product photo and styled graphic from Picsart’s photo editor

Choose the edit your image needs

Use image to layers when you want to rearrange the parts of a composition. If you only need a subject cutout, try the background remover. To erase a distraction, use object removal.

The editing example shows object selection and removal, a different task from separating an image into layers.

Picsart object-selection example with highlighted items and a cleaned-up photo

Plan your next layered edit

Explore a new arrangement, then check the source image and separated parts as you work.

  • Rework a product layout

    Explore a different position or scale for a separated product element before rebuilding the whole graphic.

  • Refresh a social graphic

    Try a new arrangement of the image elements and add your own text for the next post.

  • Remix a collage

    Adjust the order and placement of separated visual parts to explore a new composition.

  • Keep the detail

    Start with the clearest copy of the image you have. Tiny or heavily compressed pictures can make edges harder to judge.

  • Look at the overlaps

    Pay attention to objects that cover each other. Hidden areas and complex edges may need closer review.

  • Compare the composition

    Keep the source nearby while you edit. Check the combined result and refine details that do not fit your design.

Find the tool for your next edit

Layer separation is one part of the process. Use these tools when your next change is more specific.

Photo editor example combining a portrait and stickers
Build out your designAdd text, stickers, and finishing touches in the photo editor.
Portrait example from Picsart’s background changer
Change the backgroundExplore a new setting when the backdrop is the part you want to change.
Object remover example with selected items and a cleaned-up photo
Remove a distractionErase an unwanted object when you want to keep the rest of the photo together.

Image-to-layers questions

  • Image to layers separates a flat image into visual parts you can edit individually. Converting an image to layers lets you change their arrangement instead of moving the whole picture as one element.

Try a different arrangement

See what you can build from the parts of an image you already have. Open the sample and explore a new composition in Picsart.

Separate into layers