Create masks using shapes

Last updated on Mar 9, 2026
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Follow along with any project to learn how to mask and isolate specific areas of a video.

Learn how to create and apply shape masks to clips in Adobe Premiere.

Creating masks in Adobe Premiere is a powerful technique that allows you to isolate and manipulate specific areas of your video, enabling you to achieve professional-level effects and seamless transitions. 

You can use shape masks to limit the area where an effect is applied to a clip. Masks are created using the Mask tools and can be assigned to effects such as blur, color correction, or opacity.

Select the clip in the Timeline.

In the Toolbar, select and hold the Object Mask Tool, then choose Ellipse Mask Tool  Rectangle  , or Pen Mask Tool  .

Draw the mask in the Program Monitor.

Open the Effect Controls panel for the selected clip.

The Effect Controls panel is open, an effect is selected, and the dropdown is open to reveal its controls.
Use the Effect Controls panel to open the effect’s settings and adjust its properties.

In Unassigned Masks, drag the mask onto the effect you want to apply it to.

Adjust the mask controls under the effect to refine the result.