About importing layers from Photoshop files


    When you open or embed a Photoshop (PSD) file using the Convert Photoshop layers to objects option, Illustrator preserves as much layer structure as possible. However, if the file includes features that Illustrator doesn't support, Illustrator preserves the appearance of the artwork by merging and rasterizing layers.

    Keep the following in mind when importing layers from a Photoshop file:

    • All layers in clipping masks are merged into a single layer.
    • Adjustment layers are merged with the underlying layers.
    • Layers that use layer effects may be merged; however, the specific merging behavior depends on the blending mode of the layer, the presence of transparent pixels, and the layer's blending options.
    • Layers that contain transparent pixels and use the Color Dodge, Color Burn, or Difference blending mode are merged with the underlying layers.
    • Layers that use the Linear Burn, Linear Dodge, Vivid Light, Linear Light, or Pin Light blending mode are merged with the underlying layers.
    • Layers that use a Knockout option (either Shallow or Deep) are merged with the underlying layers.
    • Layer sets that use the Dissolve blending mode are merged into a single layer.
    • Hidden layers that require merging are discarded.