Flatten Layers 2 by MotionCodes combines selected After Effects layers into a single lossless PNG sequence in the background, allowing you to keep working and toggle between flattened and original layers without pre‑rendering.
Developed by MotionCodes.
About Flatten Layers 2
Flatten Layers 2 is an After Effects script that merges chosen layers into one flattened layer without requiring a pre‑render. The output is a lossless PNG sequence generated automatically in the background, so there is no quality loss and no separate rendering wait. Users select layers, set frame rate and quality, then click Create; the script replaces the group with the flattened layer while preserving the original for toggling. Version 2.2 added options for a custom temporary folder, quick access to the PNG sequence folder, path changes, random color assignment to flattened layers, and fixes for Ctrl+Z and other errors. The script is compatible with After Effects versions from CC 2015 through the 2026 release.
Features
- Flattens selected layers into a single layer without pre-rendering
- Output is a lossless PNG sequence created automatically in the background
- No quality loss when flattening
- Keep working while layers flatten in the background
- Toggle between the original and flattened layers
- Simple workflow: select layers, set frame rate and quality, click Create
- Custom temp folder, plus options to open and change the PNG sequences folder path
Best for
After Effects artists who need to reduce layer count on crowded timelines without sacrificing quality or workflow speed.
Frequently asked questions
Does Flatten Layers 2 work with After Effects 2026?
Yes. Flatten Layers 2 lists compatibility with After Effects 2026 along with earlier versions dating back to CC 2015.
How does flattening work in Flatten Layers 2?
You select the layers to combine, specify the desired frame rate and quality, and press Create. The script generates a lossless PNG sequence in the background, replaces the selected layers with a single flattened layer, and lets you toggle back to the original layers at any time.
Is Flatten Layers 2 free?
The catalog marks Flatten Layers 2 as free, but users should verify the current licensing terms on the developer’s page before using it commercially.
What did the 2.2 update add to Flatten Layers 2?
Version 2.2 introduced a custom temporary folder option, a button to open the PNG sequence folder, the ability to change that folder’s path, random color application to flattened layers, and fixes for a Ctrl+Z issue and other errors.
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