Helper layers are auxiliary layers attached to a master. They carry their own outline and anchors, and exist alongside the master layer for design reference — alternate sketches, work-in-progress shapes, comparison overlays, and similar uses. Like the background layer, helper layers are read-only in the glyph editor; swap one onto the master to edit it.

A helper layer carries:

•An outline of contours and components, any of which can be flagged as a Mask.

•Anchors, positioned independently of the master.

•A name, an opacity, and a color.

•A background layer of its own, with its own outline and anchors. See Background Layer.

Properties

Each helper layer has a Helper Layer Properties dialog where the name, opacity, and color can be set.

In the Masters and Layers Panel

Helper layers appear in the Masters and Layers panel under each master row. Add, duplicate, swap, or delete helper layers through the panel's toolbar or context menu.