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layer structure and hue

I am trying to make a multi-layer stencil effect in PS CS6.

How I got here: 1. Made several copies of original image 2. Image> Adjustments> Threshold, for each one at different levels. 3. Select > Colour Range > Highlights + delete. Gets rid of the white, leaving just the blackness of the threshold effect. 4. Make adjustment layer for to change the Hue/Saturation. Giving me different grays.

However, Ideally I would like to be able to change threshold levels, as a live effect, so I can see how the layers stack. Cannot quite figure out whether this is possible or not.

Once I remove the white, there's no turning back.

Any ideas how I could use the threshold effect with on a transparent background?

I appreciate your time!

TL;DR: How could I use the threshold function as black/transparent not black/white.

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2 Answers 2

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You can use Threshold adjustment layers they same way you've used Hue/Saturation adjustment layers rather than applying threshold directly to layers.

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  • Yes, indeed, I am aware of this, but still doesnt allow me to play with the thresholds while staking layers. Thank you for your time.
    – Tudor
    Commented Feb 11, 2018 at 20:03
  • Then I don't understand what you are asking. Adjustment layers allow for non-destructive editing at any time. No clue what "play with threshold while stacking layers" means.
    – Scott
    Commented Feb 11, 2018 at 20:07
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So the solution is the following:

Basically for each layer of the stencil, I first convert layer to Smart Object, and then:

  1. I add the Threshold Adjustment Layer - making sure the "Clip to Layer" icon is checked. This can be changed, since it's a live adjustment.

  2. I double-click the layer: Layer style > Blending options >Blend if > Adjusting the grey slider until the white of the Threshold effect disappears, leaving only the black. (holding ALT while clicking the slider, allows a range to be set, this allowing a threshold level range to be chosen)

  3. Then I add a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer to change the black it into any grey/colour I want.

THANKS "AwwwSnack"!

Visual description of the solution - Each stencil layer has its own group

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  • This also works without converting to a Live Layer (at least on CC). Just clip the adjustment layer to your copy of the image layer and set blending options of that image layer as you indicated.
    – Pássaro
    Commented Feb 16, 2018 at 11:05

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