What It Does
Mask Unlinker separates a mask from its layer’s transformations. Once unlinked, you can reposition, rotate, or scale a layer while the mask stays fixed in the composition. This removes the need to create separate matte layers just to keep a mask stationary.
The plugin works with a simple two-button interface: select a mask, click Unlink, and the mask detaches from the layer’s movement. When you’re done, relink it with a single click. Projects that use Mask Unlinker remain compatible on systems without the plugin installed.
Key Features
One-click unlinking and relinking. Two buttons handle the entire workflow. A third button quickly selects the mask from the currently active layer.
3D layer support. Works with 3D layers, covering Z rotation and X/Y position. Added in version 1.3.
Feather point warnings. The plugin alerts you if a mask contains feather points, which can behave unexpectedly when unlinked.
KBar integration. Icons and instructions are included for users who organize tools in KBar.
The plugin does not support mask keyframes. If you need to animate a mask path independently, you’ll need to work around that limitation.
Who It’s For
Useful for motion designers who frequently reposition masked layers and want to avoid the overhead of pre-composing or duplicating layers as track mattes. Particularly helpful in lower-thirds, title animations, or any setup where a mask needs to stay in a fixed screen position while the source layer moves.
Pricing
Mask Unlinker uses pay-what-you-want pricing. You can download it for free or contribute any amount you choose. The suggested price is $7.99.