Using Layers

You can use a layer to arrange a collection of fields that you want to include in the Label view of label templates, but manage independently of the label templates.

You create a layer object A type of object that can contain fields appropriate for the Label view of label template. To be used by a label template, a layer object must be referenced by a layer area in the label template. in Label Design  in much the same way that you would create a label template. After you have created a layer object, you can add a reference to it when you create a layer area A type of area that contains a reference to either an existing layer object or to a data ref that resolves to the path to a layer object. A layer area can be added to the Label view of a label template. in a label template. Because you are adding a reference to the layer object rather than creating a copy of it, changes to the properties or fields in a layer object impact all layer areas that refer to that layer object. However, properties of a layer area, such as whether it is visible or hidden, are limited to that layer area, and changes to them do not impact the layer object to which the layer area refers.

Note: When you are editing a reusable object, you cannot add a layer area to the reusable object. However, when you are editing a layer object, you can add a reusable object to the layer object. Any fields and properties related to the Form view will not be added to the layer object.

When you add a layer area to a label template, you can configure the field as either a Fixed Layer A type of area that includes a static reference to a specific layer object. or a Variable Layer A type of area that includes a dynamic reference to a data ref that is resolved to the path of a layer object at print time.. Whether a layer area is fixed or variable cannot be changed after it is created.

Note: If a layer object is changed, label templates to which it was added before the change was made are affected.

Example: Designing for Pre-Printed Label Stock

If you are designing label templates for use with label stock that includes some pre-printed elements, you can create a layer that includes a representation of those pre-printed elements. You can display the layer while designing the label to help you reliably position other fields relative to the pre-printed elements. When you are ready to print, you can hide the layer that represents the pre-printed elements.

Example: Ensuring that Common Fields are Consistent

If you have common fields such as for a header or footer that should be included on multiple label templates, you can collect them into a layer object. You can add a layer area that refers to that layer object to it to each label template. When changes are needed, you can edit the layer object rather than having to individually edit each label template.

Example: Limiting Permission to Make Changes to Specific Fields

If the design of a label involves contributions from multiple departments in your organization, you can restrict each department from making changes to fields for which they are not responsible. You can create a separate layer object for each department, each with Write permissions for only the appropriate department. All of the layers can be included in a label template via layer areas so that all contributors can see the whole design, but make changes only to their portion of it.

For information about using layer areas, see the following topics.

Tip: For information about creating a layer object, see Create a Layer Object.