I always save my work in the programs native format so I can easily make changes should any become necessary.  Before I merge the layers I want to make some minor position adjustments to some of them.  Don’t forget to sign your work. Once I have saved the file a second time with the objects combined with the background I will embed the Digimarc watermark.  This won’t prevent unauthorized use but it will be additional evidence in the event I ever have to bring a copyright infringement lawsuit against someone.  This is another tool to help you protect your work, use it if you place any value on what you have worked so hard to create.

My finished painting looks like this.