To merge outlines in Adobe Illustrator, you can use the Expand and Unite functions. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Merging Outlines Using Expand and Unite
This method effectively combines multiple outlined strokes into a single, filled shape.
Step-by-step guide:
- Select All Outlines: Select all the outlined strokes you want to merge.
- Expand Objects: Go to
Object > Expand. This will convert your strokes into filled paths. - Open Pathfinder: Open the Pathfinder panel. You can find it under
Window > Pathfinder. - Unite: In the Pathfinder panel, click the "Unite" option. This combines all the selected paths into a single, unified shape with a fill.
This process will outline all the strokes and combine them into one object, i.e., one single path with a fill. As referenced on 25-Mar-2020, this process essentially converts stroke paths into filled shapes and then merges them.
Example
Imagine you have multiple separate paths forming an object with a stroke around it. By following the above steps, these separate paths will be combined into a single filled object.
Summary
| Step | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Select | Select all strokes to be merged | Strokes to be combined are ready for the next step |
| 2. Expand | Object > Expand |
Strokes converted to filled paths |
| 3. Pathfinder | Open the Pathfinder Panel | Pathfinder tools ready for use |
| 4. Unite | Click the "Unite" option in the Pathfinder panel | All selected paths combined into a single, filled path |
