---
title: "Layer Tool"
url: "https://help.manageartworks.com/en/article/layer-tool"
language: "en"
last_updated: "2025-10-24T23:29:15.619Z"
---

# Layer Tool

The **Layer tool** in **ManageArtworks** allows users to **view artwork layer by layer**, providing greater control and clarity during proofing and review.

In most cases, designers create artwork using **multiple layers**, as it offers a **non-destructive workflow** — allowing them to manage elements such as text, keylines, Braille, dielines, and graphics separately.

The Layer tool does **not create new layers** or modify existing ones. Instead, it **reads the layers already embedded** within the uploaded artwork file and displays them for inspection. Users can then **select and isolate specific layers** they wish to view or validate, enabling focused analysis of particular content areas without visual clutter from other design elements.

The tool reads **layer metadata** directly from the PDF file. So that the system performs **layer-level analysis**, enhancing proofing accuracy for both design and compliance validation.

## Best Practices

Follow these best practices to ensure accurate layer detection, analysis, and proofing within **ManageArtworks**.

### 01\. Export Artwork with a Layered Structure

-   Always export artwork as **layered PDFs** from design tools such as **Adobe Illustrator**, **InDesign**, or similar applications.
-   Avoid **flattening** or **rasterizing** files before submission, as it removes layer metadata.
-   During export, enable the **Preserve Layers** option to retain structural information.

### 02\. Isolate Technical Content in Separate Layers

Place functional or technical elements such as **Braille**, **Keylines (KLD)**, **Barcodes**, and **Regulatory Text** on **dedicated layers**.

Suggested naming conventions:

-   `Braille_Layer`
-   `KLD`
-   `Barcode`
-   `Regulatory_Text`

This separation ensures cleaner analysis and prevents non-relevant elements from interfering with automated validations.

### 03\. Use Clear and Descriptive Layer Names

-   Replace generic names such as *Layer 1* or *Untitled* with **meaningful labels** like: `Text_Main`, `Barcode`, `Background`, `Logos`, etc.
-   Clear and consistent naming helps the system **auto-classify** and **validate** layers more effectively during proofing.

### 04\. Ensure All Layers Are Visible and Unlocked

Before exporting the artwork file:

-   **Unlock** all relevant layers.
-   **Make visible** any layers containing important design or regulatory content.
-   Avoid hiding or locking layers that are critical for review or approval.

### 05\. Maintain Proper Layer Stacking and Visual Clarity

-   Prevent **overlapping** of technical elements (e.g., Braille, barcode, or KLD) with background images or text.
-   Maintain adequate **white space** around sensitive elements to ensure readability and visibility.
-   Follow logical stacking — technical or structural elements (such as **KLD**) should be placed **behind visual design layers** for clarity and print accuracy.