Layer Master - After Effects Script

Layer Master for After Effects

“Are you the Layer Master?” — Yes. Yes, you are.

Step into the timeline dojo and take control of your layers with Layer Master, a utility panel for After Effects that gives you precision tools wrapped in nerdy glory. Whether you're channeling the spirit of the Keymaster or reaching for the glow like Bruce Leroy, this script helps you master the art of layer manipulation with style.

What It Does

Layer Master includes four powerful functions:

1. Mask to Layers
   Duplicate a selected layer based on its closed, visible “Add” masks. Each copy retains only one mask, giving you isolated masked layers without the ectoplasmic mess.
2. Split Words to Layers
   Take a text layer and break it into individual word layers, with spacing that respects the original layout. Ideal for kinetic type and other text-based animations.
3. Split Characters to Layers
   Separate every character into its own layer, maintaining consistent spacing. Want to animate each letter of “WHO'S THE MASTER” one at a time? Done.
4. Split Lines to Layers
   Break a multi-line text layer into separate layers based on line breaks. Each line gets its own space in the timeline, vertically offset for clarity.

Why Use Layer Master?

• Automate repetitive layer-splitting tasks with precision
• Avoid unnecessary precomps and manual duplication
• Organize your projects like a true motion graphics master
• Add utility to After Effects where it never existed before

This isn't just another helper script — it's a layer liberation tool.

Requirements

• Adobe After Effects CC or later (tested on 2024+)
• Install in the Scripts > ScriptUI Panels folder
• Works as a dockable ScriptUI panel

License

Free to use for personal and commercial work. Redistribution of the script itself is not allowed — unless you're possessed by Gozer.

Final Note

When you reach the final level, you won’t just use layers...
You’ll be the Layer Master.