How do I Create or Remove Compound Paths in Adobe Illustrator?

Issue: How can I create or remove a compound path in Adobe Illustrator?

Resolution:

In Adobe Illustrator, a compound path lets you use one or more objects to cut or punch holes in other objects. It's commonly used when you want one shape to create a void in another shape. Here's how you can create and remove a compound path:

Create a Compound Path:

1. Start with the Shapes: Begin by creating the shapes you want. This can include the main shape and the shapes you want to cut out from the main shape.
   
   
2. Select the Shapes: Using the Selection Tool (V), select all the shapes you want to be part of the compound path.
   
   
3. Create the Compound Path: With the shapes selected, go to Object > Compound Path > Make or use the shortcut Ctrl+8 (Cmd+8 on Mac). This will convert your selected shapes into a single compound path.

Remove or Release a Compound Path:

1. Select the Compound Path: Use the Selection Tool (V) to click on the compound path you wish to release.
   
   
2. Release the Compound Path: Go to Object > Compound Path > Release. This will separate the compound path back into its original individual shapes.

Notes:

• When working with text that you've converted to outlines and you notice that certain letters (such as 'o' or 'b') have "holes" in them, those holes are made using compound paths. If you release the compound path in such a letter, you will get two separate shapes (the main letter and the hole).
  
  
• Compound paths are extremely useful when you want to apply a gradient or another effect across multiple objects as if they were one object.

Now that you know the basics of creating and releasing compound paths in Illustrator, you can experiment with more complex designs and see how they can benefit your workflow!