### Solid A ***solid*** is a full-frame layer of a single color (Layer ▸ New ▸ Solid), used for backgrounds, as a carrier for effects, or as a base for masks and shapes. You can create a solid from the menu or from ***right + click*** in the Timeline: ![[Pasted image 20260606132613.png]] Layer ▸ New ▸ Solid The **Solid Settings Panel** allows you to name the solid, set dimensions, and color. You can access this at any time from the menu ***Layer > Settings*** ![[Pasted image 20260606132619.png]] 2026-06-06 13\_09\_52-Adobe After Effects 2026 - J\_\_Collin\_2026-Summer\_Projects\_AE-Basics\_Solid.aep.png ### Mask A ***mask*** is a vector path drawn on a layer that defines which parts of that layer are visible. Together they're a common way to build simple graphic elements without external art. You can draw a mask with the **Pen Tool.** The **Mask Shape Menu** allows you to draw masks or shapes of several kinds: ![[Pasted image 20260606132624.png]] The Mask Shapes Tool If you have a **layer** selected, it draws a **Mask**. If **nothing** is selected, it creates a **Shape**. A **mask** on a **solid** has several properties, like **Path**, **Feather**, **Opacity**, and **Expansion**, which can all be animated. ![[Pasted image 20260606132628.png]] A mask on a solid looks like this in the Composite Panel ![[Pasted image 20260606132631.png]]