: How do I change a single layer to grayscale in Photoshop CS4? I know you can have the whole image turn grayscale: Image → Mode → Grayscale What if I only want to make specific layers

@Angela777

Honestly, the easiest and most effective way is as follows:


Duplicate the layer into a new file.
Set the Mode to Grayscale.
Duplicate the layer right back into the originating file.
Close and don't save the extra file, or save it if you need the grayscale version for something else.
Remember to re-save your originating file.
Done.


Quick and effective.

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@Pierce403

I'm a total newbie, but I've always just turned individuals to gray by Layer > Layer Style > Color Overlay > Blend Mode: Hue > Set color to black

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@Turnbaugh909

Rob Clement's answer is great. The only thing I would add is that adding an adjustment layer will affect every layer below it. To just apply to the layer you want, make it a clipping mask by typing command+option+g (Mac shortcut).

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@Ann6370331

The simplest approach I know of is to Desaturate the layer. Photoshop even provides a handy one-step command for it:

Image > Adjustments > Desaturate

Equivalent is a keyboard shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+U.

Reference: Desaturate Colors

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@Cugini998

Well after some playing around I discovered Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Black and White. Just pop that on top of the layers you want to be grayscaled and viola!

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