Convert Illustrator Files to Editable PDFs with Adobe Illustrator CC

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Saving Illustrator File as PDF
3. Choosing the Location to Save the File
4. Format Settings for PDF
5. Naming and Saving the File
6. Override Settings Window
7. Checking Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities
8. Selecting the Preset Settings
9. Checking for Illustrator Editing Options
10. Saving the PDF File

🖌️ How to Save Your Illustrator File as a PDF

In this article, we will explore the process of saving an Adobe Illustrator file as a PDF. By following the steps outlined below, you will be able to convert your Illustrator artwork into a PDF format, enabling you to share and distribute your designs more efficiently.

Introduction

Adobe Illustrator is a powerful Graphic Design software that allows you to create stunning illustrations, logos, and vector artwork. While Illustrator files are primarily used within the Adobe ecosystem, saving them as PDFs offers compatibility with a wider range of applications.

Saving Illustrator File as PDF

To save your Illustrator file as a PDF, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choosing the Location to Save the File

1. Select "File" from the menu bar.
2. Click on "Save As" to open the save dialog window.
3. Choose the desired location to save the PDF file.

Step 2: Format Settings for PDF

1. In the save dialog window, navigate to the "Format" section at the bottom.
2. By default, "Adobe Illustrator (ai)" is selected as the format.
3. However, you can choose "Adobe PDF," which allows the file to be opened in Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop, and other programs.

Step 3: Naming and Saving the File

1. Enter a descriptive name for the PDF file in the "File name" field.
2. Ensure that the file is saved under the appropriate folder for easy retrieval.
3. Click on the "Save" button to save the file as a PDF.

Override Settings Window

Upon clicking "Save," an override settings window may appear. This window allows you to modify the default PDF settings, such as quality, size, and compatibility.

Checking Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities

One crucial setting to be mindful of is the "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" checkbox. By ensuring this option is checked, you will retain the ability to open and edit the PDF file in Adobe Illustrator.

Selecting the Preset Settings

The override settings window also provides preset settings for different PDF qualities, including:

• High-Quality Print
• Press Quality
• Smallest File Size

It’s important to note that selecting "Smallest File Size" compromises the editing capabilities in Illustrator.

Checking for Illustrator Editing Options

Before finalizing the PDF save, double-check that the "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" option remains checked. This ensures that all layers, lines, paths, and shapes from the original Illustrator file will be available for further editing.

Saving the PDF File

Once all settings are confirmed, click on the "Save PDF" button to complete the process. The Illustrator file is now saved as a PDF, and you can identify it by the PDF extension in the file name.

By considering the chosen settings, you can determine the file size and level of editability for your PDF. Keep in mind that selecting the appropriate settings for your desired purpose is essential for optimizing file compatibility and maintaining editing capabilities.

Remember to regularly save your files in different formats and versions to ensure flexibility and compatibility with different software environments.

🌟 Highlights

• Adobe Illustrator allows you to save your artwork as a PDF for wider compatibility.
• The "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" option determines the editability of the PDF in Adobe Illustrator.
• Choosing the appropriate preset settings impacts the quality and file size of the PDF.
• Save files in different formats and versions to ensure flexibility and compatibility.

FAQs

1. Can I open a PDF file saved from Illustrator in other programs?

   • Yes, PDF files created from Illustrator can be opened in programs such as Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop, and other PDF viewers.

2. What if I uncheck the "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" option?

   • Unchecking this option will result in the PDF file being non-editable in Adobe Illustrator. Make sure to keep it checked if you intend to make further edits.

3. Which preset setting is ideal for high-quality prints?

   • The "High-Quality Print" preset setting ensures optimal quality for printing purposes.