: How do I subtract line path's from a background in Illustrator? I've been working on an invitation and I want to use a gold shimmer paper to print on. My printer suggested I subtract everything

@Nimeshi706

If I understand correctly.....

Do this on a copy of the file in case I don't understand correctly.


Select all (Select > Select All)
Convert Type to Outlines (Type > Convert to Outline)
Select All (Select > Select All)
Expand strokes (Object > Expand appearance [if available], then Object > Expand)
Select All (Select > Select All)
Click the Merge button on the Pathfinder Panel
Select one gold object
Select all the gold pieces (Select > Same > Fill & Color)
Hit the Delete key.


You may not need to select all that many times, but it is important that everything is selected before some of the steps, so it won't hurt to do it if you aren't sure.

What you are left with is black shapes and white shapes and holes where the gold used to be. (Note: on a white document, the holes aren't going to show very well, you might want to turn on the Transparency Grid - View > Show Transparency Grid)

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