Merging layers


    Merging and flattening layers are similar in that they both let you consolidate objects, groups, and sublayers into a single layer or group. With merging, you can select which items you want to consolidate; with flattening, all visible items in the artwork are consolidated in a single layer. With either option, the stacking order of the artwork remains the same, but other layer-level attributes, such as clipping masks, aren't preserved.

    Layers can only merge with other layers that are on the same hierarchical level in the Layers palette. Likewise, sublayers can only merge with other sublayers that are within the same layer and at the same hierarchical level. Objects can't be merged with other objects.

To merge artwork into a single layer or group:

  1. In the Layers palette, select the layers or sublayers that you want to merge.
  2. Note: Items will be merged into the layer or group that you selected last.

  3. Choose Merge Selected from the Layers palette menu.

To flatten artwork:

  1. Select the layer into which you want to consolidate the artwork. You cannot flatten artwork into a layer that is hidden, locked, or a template.
  2. Choose Flatten Artwork from the Layers palette menu.
  3. If a hidden layer contains artwork, you are asked whether to make the artwork visible so that it can be flattened into the layer, or whether to delete the artwork and the hidden layer.