Trouble using layers

[Lero]

I just recently downloaded paint.net. Everytime I add a new layer, the background picture becomes that current layer. What are the actual steps for adding layers? Maybe I left a step out. Thanks

[Crimson]

It is possible that you are duplicating the current layer instead of adding a new one. To add a new layer:

• [*:1456j3n6]Press Ctrl + Shift + N
  [*:1456j3n6]Go to Layers > Add New Layer
  [*:1456j3n6]Press the :AddNewLayer: button in the Layers window (you might be pressing the :DuplicateLayer: button which duplicates the layer instead of adding a new one)

Hope this has helped.

Edited for clarity.

[Lero]

First, I select a background. Then when I click ctrl + shift + n, a checkered box appears in the layers window labeled as layer 2. My original picture is listed in the box as background. If I then try to open a recent file as the new layer file, The new file is then listed as the background, and the first background dissapears. Is this making sense?

[Simon Brown]

Click Layers -> Import from file.

[Lero]

Thank you!