Convert shapes or text to frames

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to mask images in Adobe Photoshop by turning shapes or text layers into frames.

The Frame Tool helps create image placeholders in unique shapes. While you can draw frames, converting existing shapes or text into frames offers increased creative flexibility, especially for more complex designs.

Adobe Photoshop deeplink

Try it in the app
Use the Frame tool to create a placeholder frame in a few simple steps.

Select a shape tool from the toolbar and create a rectangle, ellipse, or other shape.

Tip

You can also create a text layer and convert it into a frame.

In the Layers panel, right-click (Windows) or Control-click (macOS) on the shape or the text layer.

Select Convert to Frame from the context menu.

Enter a name for the frame and set its width and height in the New Frame dialog box.

Select OK to convert the shape or text into a frame.

You can then either generate an AI image or import an existing one.

Photoshop interface showing a shape layer being converted to a frame via the Layers panel context menu.
Convert shapes or text into frames to mask images and create custom placeholders for your design.