AI files from Adobe Illustrator are vector graphics that can be edited and resized without compromising their quality. Yet, there may be certain situations where you need to flatten an AI file, whether it’s for sharing with someone who lacks Adobe Illustrator or for converting to another format. This piece will walk you through the steps of flattening an AI file.
Step 1: Open the AI File
Firstly, open the AI file that you want to flatten in Adobe Illustrator. You can do this by double-clicking on the file or opening it from within Adobe Illustrator.
Step 2: Select All Objects
Next, select all the objects in the AI file by pressing Ctrl+A (Windows) or Command+A (Mac). This will ensure that all the layers and objects are flattened together.
Step 3: Go to File Menu
Now, go to the File menu in Adobe Illustrator and select “Save As” or “Export”.
Step 4: Choose a Format
In the Save As dialog box, choose a format that you want to convert the AI file into. You can choose from various formats such as JPEG, PNG, PDF, or SVG.
Step 5: Select “Flatten Artwork” Option
In the Save As dialog box, you will see an option called “Flatten Artwork”. Make sure to check this option before saving the file. This will flatten all the layers and objects in the AI file into a single layer.
Step 6: Save the File
Finally, save the file by clicking on the “Save” button. The AI file will now be flattened and converted into the chosen format.
Conclusion
Flattening an AI file is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. By following the above-mentioned steps, you can easily flatten your AI file and convert it into any desired format.
