Layers Pane Plus by dony.

Leer en Español | Read in English

Description

Layers Pane Plus is an advanced extension for Adobe After Effects that provides extended functionality for layer creation and management. Previously distributed as a single script, Layers Pane Plus has evolved into a comprehensive extension that offers a more robust, modern, and integrated After Effects experience.

Current Version

v3.2.0 - Latest update: Complete UI overhaul with modern design system, unified modal interface, duplicate layers functionality, markers manager, and enhanced user experience.

Installation

1. Locate the Adobe After Effects CEP Extensions folder:

   C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Adobe\CEP\extensions
   

2. Place the entire extension folder (Layers Pane Plus) in this directory.
3. Launch After Effects and access the extension via Window > Extensions > Layers Pane Plus.

Main Features

• Quick creation of various layer types: Text, Solid, Null Object, Shape, Camera, Light, Adjustment
• Deletion of selected layers with confirmation
• Layer sequencing based on selection order with reverse option
• Splitting of layers at the current time indicator with directional trim options
• Precomposing selected layers using the native After Effects dialog
• Creation of new compositions through the native After Effects dialog
• Auto Parent Layers (Compatible with all layer types)
• Match Layer Duration (Compatible with all layer types)
• Settings panel for customizing extension behavior
• User-friendly interface with icon buttons
• Dockable panel in the workspace
• Responsive and resizable UI

Settings Options

• Auto Parent Layers: Automatically parent selected layers to new layers
• Match Layer Duration: New layers match the duration of selected layers
• Auto Delete Split Parts: Option to automatically delete split parts
• Trim Direction: Choose whether to keep the left or right side when splitting with auto delete enabled
• Show Delete Confirmation: Toggle confirmation dialog for layer deletion
• Reverse Sequence Order: Create layer sequences in reverse selection order

Usage

1. Open Adobe After Effects
2. Go to Window > Extensions > Layers Pane Plus
3. Use the buttons to create different types of layers or perform actions
4. Access the Settings panel to customize script behavior
5. For layer sequencing:
   • Select layers in the desired order
   • Toggle "Reverse Order" option if needed
   • Click the sequence button
   • The extension will detect if layers are already sequenced and ask for confirmation
6. For creating layers with parenting or duration matching:
   • Enable desired options in Settings panel
   • Select target layer(s) - multiple layers supported for all layer types
   • Create new layer of any type (Text, Shape, Null, Solid, Light, Camera, or Adjustment)
7. For splitting layers:
   • Position the time indicator
   • Select specific layers or leave unselected for all layers
   • Click the split button
   • When "Auto Delete Split" is enabled, use the "Trim Direction" radio buttons to choose whether to keep the left or right side of the split
8. For precomposing:
   • Select layers to precompose
   • Click the precompose button
   • Use the native After Effects dialog
9. For Layer Settings:
   • Select only ONE layer (extension will warn if multiple layers are selected)
   • Click Layer Settings button

Version History

For detailed version history and changelog, please see CHANGELOG.md.

Support

For help or to provide feedback, please contact me at: https://linktr.ee/Dony.ae

Enjoy the extension and happy creating!