What It Does
Shape Repeater Baker converts a shape layer’s repeater effect into separate, individual shape instances. Instead of controlling all repeated shapes through the repeater’s global parameters, you get discrete shapes you can animate independently. Think of it like Cinema 4D’s “Current State Object” command, but for After Effects shape layers.
This matters when you need precise control over individual repeated elements. Standard repeaters apply transforms uniformly across all instances. Once baked, each shape becomes its own editable object in the timeline, letting you keyframe specific instances or apply different effects to each one.
Key Features
Property-based baking. Group the properties you want to bake above the repeater in the layer stack. The script processes those properties and creates individual shapes with those attributes frozen in place.
Optional repeater removal. After baking, you can choose to keep or delete the original repeater via checkbox.
Explode Shape Layers integration. Works alongside the Explode Shape Layers script for further layer breakout options.
The workflow is straightforward: arrange properties above the repeater, select the repeater, check whether to remove it, click “Bake Repeater.” Done.
Who It’s For
Useful for motion designers who hit the limits of standard repeater animation. If you’re animating complex logo builds, kinetic typography where certain letters need individual timing, or any scenario where uniform repetition becomes a constraint rather than a feature, this script opens up the timeline for granular control.
Also helpful when collaborating with editors who need to adjust specific elements without understanding repeater offset transforms.
Pricing
Pay-what-you-want with a suggested minimum of $5.99. Individual users can choose their price; businesses and teams should pay the suggested amount for a valid license. One-time purchase, no subscription. Compatible with After Effects 2025 back to CS5.5.
The developer also suggests supporting through purchases of GifGun or Good Parents as alternative ways to contribute.
Technical Notes
First released January 2014 as version 1.0. Broad version compatibility suggests it relies on stable ExtendScript APIs rather than newer features. Integrates with Explode Shape Layers (also version 1.0), indicating it’s part of a toolkit approach to shape layer manipulation.
