layered backgrounds

i want to do 3 layer backgrounds but not sure if i should use layers
or layout cells i need them to scroll together when i add the graphics
to the center layer i deleted the one i was working on cause i got
angry and i did it in layers but the center would scroll with the
graphic but the bottom 2 layers stayed the same i was using a floral
background with a gradient layer on top of it then a solid color on
top of the gradient any help would be appreciated
thanks,
nikki