Introduction
When working on detailed illustrations or complex artwork in Krita, selections play a crucial role. But if you’ve only used the lasso tool or rectangular selections, you’re missing out on one of Krita’s most powerful hidden features is the Global Selection Mask in Krita.
In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn exactly how to use the Global Selection Mask in Krira, why it’s better than regular selections, and how professional digital artists leverage it for non-destructive editing and precise control.
Table of Contents
What is the Global Selection Mask in Krita?
The Global Selection Mask is a special layer that controls your active selection. Instead of relying only on marching ants (the dotted line), Krita gives you a mask where white areas represent the selection and black areas represent transparency.
Think of it as a layer for selections that you can paint on with brushes, just like you would on a normal layer.
Why Use Global Selection Mask Instead of Regular Selections?
- Non-destructive editing – refine or change selections anytime.
- Brush control – use soft brushes, textures, or gradients for advanced selections.
- Precision – perfect for hair, fur, smoke, and other detailed edges.
- Flexibility – toggle the mask on/off without losing progress.
- Professional workflow – works just like Photoshop’s quick mask mode but with Krita’s painting power.
How to Activate the Global Selection Mask in Krita
Follow these steps to enable and use the Global Selection Mask:
Step 1: Create a Selection
- Use any selection tool (lasso, polygonal, rectangular, elliptical).
- You’ll see the marching ants indicating the selected area.
Step 2: Enable Global Selection Mask
- Go to the Selections Docker (usually found on the right side).
- Click the “Global Selection Mask” button.
- A new mask will appear in the layer stack with your active selection.
Step 3: Paint on the Selection Mask
- Select a black brush to erase parts of the selection.
- Use a white brush to add to the selection.
- Gray values = partially selected areas (soft edges).
Step 4: Refine Your Selection
- Switch brushes for more precision.
- Try soft round brushes for blending and textured brushes for organic edges.
Step 5: Apply Your Changes
- Once satisfied, toggle off the Global Selection Mask.
- Your refined selection remains active for painting, filling, or applying filters.
Advanced Techniques with Global Selection Mask
- Feathered Selections
- Paint with soft brushes to create natural blending effects.
- Texture-Based Selections
- Use custom brushes for cloth textures, skin pores, or foliage masking.
- Combining with Filters
- Apply blur, sharpen, or color adjustments only to masked areas.
- Hair and Fur Detailing
- The best way to isolate strands without spending hours manually cutting edges.
Global Selection Mask vs Other Krita Selection Tools
| Feature | Regular Selection | Global Selection Mask |
|---|---|---|
| Editable with brushes | No | Yes |
| Non-destructive | No | Yes |
| Supports soft edges | Limited | Full control |
| Save/load flexibility | No | Yes |
Common Problems and Fixes
- Problem: Mask looks empty.
Fix: Make sure you created a selection first. - Problem: Painting doesn’t affect the mask.
Fix: Check if the Global Selection Mask is active in the layer panel. - Problem: Edges are jagged.
Fix: Use feathered brushes or blur the mask.
FAQs
Q1: Is Global Selection Mask available in all Krita versions?
Yes, but the feature works best in Krita 5.x and newer versions.
Q2: Can I save my Global Selection Mask for later use?
Yes, you can convert it into a selection layer and save it in your file.
Q3: Is Global Selection Mask the same as Photoshop’s Quick Mask?
Similar in concept, but Krita’s version is more powerful since you can use any brush engine to refine it.
Conclusion
The Global Selection Mask in Krita is a must-use feature for artists who want professional control over their selections. Whether you’re painting hair, creating textures, or refining complex edges, this tool will save you time and improve accuracy.
If you’re serious about leveling up your Krita workflow, mastering this hidden gem is essential. Also check the 10 hidden features of Krita.
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