Sketchsoft has released Feather 1.1, an update to its Photoshop plugin aimed at post-production professionals who like their edges soft—but not too soft. The plugin enables more precise feathering of layers and masks, tailored for VFX workflows where control and consistency matter more than vague promises of “AI magic.”
Feather 1.1 introduces support for mask-based feathering, allowing users to apply custom edge softness directly to layer masks, vector masks, and adjustment layers. This addresses one of the more frustrating limitations of Photoshop’s native tools, which tend to be more interested in feathering your patience than your layers.
Each feathering effect is applied per layer, and yes, that includes Smart Objects and rasterised layers. The plugin now also supports feathering based on layer masks and vector masks—handy if you’re juggling complex layer stacks and would prefer not to go blind doing it.
The plugin has also been given per-layer settings, so no more diving into global preferences like it’s 2007. Settings for each layer include the mask type, feathering radius, and falloff, the latter determining how gradually the feathering fades out (in other words, how mercifully soft your soft edges are).
Real-Time Previews, Minus the Guesswork
New in version 1.1: real-time previews directly inside the plugin panel. Feathering adjustments are now visible immediately, with no need to render or export for a sneak peek. This feature supports zooming and panning, so users can evaluate edge softness across the entire canvas, not just in the dreaded top-left corner.
For users stuck on older versions of Photoshop, good news: Feather 1.1 now supports older Photoshop builds, though Sketchsoft hasn’t specified how far back in time it’s willing to go. Likely not as far as CS6, but enough to keep legacy workflows afloat.
Pricing, Platform, and Production Readiness
Feather 1.1 is compatible with Photoshop 2023 and earlier, though specific minimum system requirements aren’t detailed. Users are advised to consult Sketchsoft directly for compatibility specifics. Pricing? Sketchsoft say 14,99$, permanent license.
Given the specificity of the plugin’s features and its focus on Photoshop integration, Feather 1.1 is likely to appeal to VFX artists, compositors, and post-production professionals who need non-destructive and layer-specific feathering with preview capabilities.
As always: new tools should be tested thoroughly in non-critical environments before being thrown into the fray of live projects. Production artists value stability and predictability over novelty—and rightly so. Feather 1.1 seems promising, but as with all things post-production, verify before you rely.
