Use pencil on invisible layer
The title says it all: I'd like to use the pencil tool on an invisible
(i.e. visibility toggled off) layer in Gimp 2.10. When I try I get the
warning "the active layer is not visible" and the tool doesn't work.
Perhaps it's an easy fix but I can't for the life of me figure it out.
Thanks!
Even with Gimp 2.8, although it is possible to draw on a layer with visibility off the (pencil) tool does not show. Only shows with visibility back on.
Gimp 2.10 removes that possibility of users wondering why the tool is not working. (it does happen)
Assuming the object is to trace or somehow use the underlying layer as a template.
Reduce the layer opacity enough to show the underlying layer and the pencil tool working. Return the opacity to 100% when complete.
Add a transparent layer on top, layer below visibility off, underlying layer is visible. When complete visibility back on, merge with transparent layer.
A possibly better way use a layer group with "invisible layer" and transparent layer. No merge visibility back on, collapse the group. As screenshot: