If the layer has the same name across all the documents or if it is in the same position relative to the background or top layer in all, then you should be able to record an action to delete the existing layer style and apply a new one which you would have defined. If the layer is in a random position or doesn’t have a consistent name, then I think you might be in for a tedious task.
But if I delete the layer – Won’t I lose the text on that layer. I want to retain the text but change the settings of the drop shadow on that layer.
The layer is in the same position relative to the background in every document. The name of the layer however is basically the text in that layer.
I guess I can make a backup if it doesn’t work. Thanks for your help
You can just delete the style, not the layer itself, when you record the action. Just drag the style to the trash can on the layers palette. The reason for suggesting deleting the entire style and replacing it rather than attempting to change the drop shadow settings is that this is probably easier to do than to modify an existing style, although you could try that. However, replacing the style should work well. You will need to creat the new style as a a named style before you start.
Assuming the text is different in each document, you will have to work with the layer position. Start by recording an action which selects the background layer and then move up to the layer you want by hitting the shortcut key alt + ] which will move you up through the layers and give you the same relative position each time. If you just select the layer, the action will record it by name and it won’t work. Then delete the style, replace it with the new named style and save.
Definitely back up before you try this. I think it should work though.
Thanks Mick.
I will have to try this tomorrow at work. I appreciate your help.
One question, how do you name a style? – (Are you are saying that you can name a style something other than the default "drop shadow"
Is there a replace feature in the layers palette or do I just enter the new style manually after I delete the old one?
Sorry, I am somewhat of a novice to this whole process.
To define a new style, just create the layer style in the normal way and at the right of the dialog box is a button saying New Style. Hit this when you are happy with your style and give it a name. Once it has a name you can then use it in your action. When recording the action, open up the Layer Styles dialog box in whatever way you like and click on Styles at the top left. Click on your named style, hit OK and the style will be applied and this will be recorded in the action. If you want to keep the style permanently, make sure to explicitly save it.
I see the button New Style and I give it a name – but should that name now appear in the layers palette under that specific layer. I still just see drop shadow or whatever syle I apply. Am I missing something? Where should I see that named style.
What do you mean by explicitly saving it – because I would like to keep it permanently
The style will be in your styles palette. Check out the online manual.
Thanks for your help. That worked perfectly
