To create separate layers in Illustrator, you can either create new blank layers, or release sublayers to individual layers using the "Release to Layers (Sequence)" command. Here's a breakdown of both methods:
1. Creating New Blank Layers:
- Open the Layers panel. (Window > Layers)
- Click the "Create New Layer" button at the bottom of the Layers panel. This button looks like a page with a folded corner.
- A new layer will appear above the currently selected layer.
- You can rename the layer by double-clicking its name in the Layers panel and typing a new name.
2. Releasing Sublayers to Individual Layers:
This method is useful when you have multiple objects grouped or nested within a single layer and want to separate them onto their own individual layers.
- Select the Layer: In the Layers panel, select the layer containing the sub-layers you want to separate.
- Access the Layers Panel Menu: Click on the Layers panel menu, which is represented by three horizontal lines in the upper-right corner of the Layers panel.
- Choose "Release to Layers (Sequence)": In the dropdown menu, select "Release to Layers (Sequence)".
- Move objects to their respective layers: Illustrator creates new layers within the selected layer. To separate objects onto separate layers, you'll have to drag them from the original layer to the new layers.
Example:
Let's say you drew a circle and a square on Layer 1 and grouped them (Object > Group). "Release to Layers (Sequence)" will create two new sublayers within Layer 1: Layer 1 - circle and Layer 1 - square. Now, you can drag the object from the Layer 1 to respective named layers.
Alternative Methods for Layering:
- Copy and Paste in Place: Select an object, copy it (Ctrl/Cmd + C), create a new layer, and paste it in place (Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + V). This ensures the object is pasted in the exact same location.
- Moving Selections: Select objects on one layer and then select "Move Selection to New Layer" from the layers panel options.
