rectangle frustration (or any shape)

[rich2005]

Quote:when I created the rectangle or anything it automagically creates a new layer,  in this case GFig... is the normal way  to use layers? they multiply like rabbits:

That is the way Gfig works. A bit of history Xfig is(was) a linux vector program. The xfig .fig format was originally a Gimp v1 plugin, then incorporated into the Gimp code where it says forever more. Sooner or later you will come unstuck with Gfig.

As for layers, far better to have more layers than a single 'flattened' layer. Think ahead when you might want to change something. 

Quote:I wanted the rectangle to be on the  logo layer, or to be able to create new objects on any layer i chose. when I try  to copy the rectangle to the logo layer, it then creates yet another layer  ‘floating selection’.  I am trying to keep this project simple and not have a  bizillion layers to deal with 1/2 dozen objects]

You can refer to 'Objects' forever more but Gimp is a raster editor not a vector editor. There are no objects. Keep the image 'elements' on as many layers as required.

Quote:I have the rectangle created, btw, does it matter how created, eg gfig or rectangle select?, I want to change the size and position of the rectangle.

My suggestions:
Use Layer Groups to keep relevant parts of an image together.
Make the rectangle size using the rectangular selection tool. Fill it on a new layer.
To make moving / resizing easier, use Layer -> Crop to Content which shrinks the layer down to the rectangle size.
The move tool will move that layer. With the move tool active the keyboard curser keys will 'nudge' up / down / left / right.
To resize, I recommend the Unified Transform tool. It will move and scale without swapping between tools.

I might set up a project like this: https://youtu.be/3tsU-QE8qEs  duration 5 minutes