We'll see G. I thought this was what I did--I had the mask (which is shades of grey) because its 'from image'. However, what happens is that the gaussian blur doesn't seem to be applied at varying levels--which is what I should expect-right?--it seems to apply the same across the board--the whole selection (all grey, black) seems to get the filter the same. I'll try exactly this--may need to put up some printscreens or images. Thanks for the help--you've been my 'savior' many a time smile Diane B