# Flatten Shape Layers
Connecting this Utility as a Deformer to a Shape will flatten the internal geometry hierarchy.
**Mode:**
* **Single Path** - flattens all geometry into one path. Note - this mode will remove any materials.
* **Single Layer** (keeps materials) - flattens the sub-mesh hierarchy into a single layer.
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Order of operations is really important here.
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Using the images below as an example:
1. Create a [Text Shape](https://scenegroup.gitbook.io/cavalry/nodes/shapes/text-shape).
2. With the Text Shape selected, hold alt/option and click the Outline button in the Toolbar.
3. With the Outline selected, hold alt/option and click the Duplicator button in the Toolbar.
4. Load the Outline's UI into the [Attribute Editor](https://scenegroup.gitbook.io/cavalry/user-interface/menus/window-menu/attribute-editor).
5. Right click on Deformers and select ***Add Deformers > Stagger***.
6. Set **Maximum** on the [Stagger](https://scenegroup.gitbook.io/cavalry/nodes/behaviours/stagger) to **50** (or a setting that makes sense for your set up).
You should get something like:
1. Create a **Flatten Shape Layer**.
2. Connect ***flattenShapeLayer.id*** > ***textShape.deformers***
You should get something like:
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