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Chapter 8. Using Layers

In This Chapter

• Working with layers

• Using layers for a selection

• Changing the stacking order of a layer

• Moving and cloning objects to another layer

• Hiding and locking layers

This chapter shows you just how simple it is to use layers and how helpful layers can be when you're producing complex artwork. Layers are similar to clear pages stacked on top of your artwork: You can place content (text, shapes, and other objects) on a layer, lift up a layer, remove a layer, hide and show layers, or lock a layer so that you can't edit its content. The incredible Layer feature can help you

• Organize the painting (stacking) order of objects.

• Activate objects that would otherwise be difficult to select by using either the Selection or Direct Selection tool.

• Lock items that you don't want to reposition or change.

• Hide items until you need them.

• Repurpose objects for artwork variations. For example, a company's business cards use the same logo and company address, but the name and contact information changes for each person. In this case, placing the logo and company address on one layer and the person's name and contact information on another layer lets you easily create a new business card by just changing the person's name.

Many Illustrator users don't take advantage of layers. Maybe these people don't understand the basic functions of layers or they think that layers are much more complicated than they are. After reading this chapter, you'll be able to take advantage of layers in ...