Exporting artwork


    You can export artwork in a variety of file formats for use outside of Illustrator. These formats are called non-native formats because Illustrator will not be able to retrieve all of the data if you reopen the file in Illustrator. Each format is distinguished by the way it represents graphic information. Some non-native file formats can contain only vector drawings or only bitmap images; others can include both in the same file.

    Tip iconWhen artwork contains type, consider applying the Rasterize effect to the type before saving in a raster format. This gives you more control over the final appearance of the type without taking away the ability to edit the type in the Illustrator document. (See Rasterizing and anti-aliasing type.)

To export artwork in a non-native format:

  1. If the artwork includes transparency, choose File > Document Setup, and choose Transparency from the pop-up menu. Then select a flattener setting, and click OK. (See About flattening transparent artwork.)
  2. Choose File > Export.
  3. In the Export dialog box, select a location for the file, enter a filename, and choose a format from the Save as Type (Windows) or Format (Mac OS) pop-up menu.
  4. Note: If the format you want to use is not available, you may need to install the format's plug-in module. (See Customizing your Illustrator workspace.)

  5. Click Save.
  6. With some file formats, a dialog box appears. For more information, see the following format-specific sections.

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