How to Export AI from Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is one of the most popular vector graphics editing software used by designers and illustrators. It offers a wide range of features and tools that allow users to create stunning artwork. Once you’ve finished working on your design in Illustrator, it’s essential to know how to export your file in the appropriate format to ensure that it can be used in other applications or shared with others. In this article, we will explain how to export AI (Adobe Illustrator) files from Illustrator.
Why Export in AI Format?
The AI format is the native file format used by Adobe Illustrator. It preserves all the editable vector elements, such as shapes, text, and paths, so that the file can be further edited without losing quality. Exporting in AI format is useful if you plan to continue working on the file in Illustrator or if you need to retain the ability to make adjustments to the design in the future.
Here are the steps to export an AI file from Illustrator:
Step 1: Open the File Menu
Once you have completed your design in Adobe Illustrator, go to the File menu in the top-left corner of the window.
Step 2: Select “Save As”
In the File menu, select the “Save As” option. This will open a dialog box where you can specify the file format and location to save your file.
Step 3: Choose AI as the File Format
In the Save As dialog box, you will see a dropdown menu labeled “Format.” Click on this menu and select “Adobe Illustrator (.ai)” as the format for your file.
Step 4: Name Your File and Choose a Location
Next, you can specify the name for your file and choose the location where you want to save it. You can also create a new folder to organize your files if necessary.
Step 5: Click “Save”
Once you have selected the format, named your file, and chosen the save location, click the “Save” button to export your file in AI format.
Alternative Export Options
In addition to exporting in AI format, Adobe Illustrator also offers a variety of other file formats for exporting your designs. Some popular export options include:
– EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): A widely supported format commonly used for printing and publishing.
– PDF (Portable Document Format): Ideal for sharing designs with others, as it preserves the layout and formatting of the document.
– SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): Suitable for web graphics and interactive designs, as it can be scaled to any size without losing quality.
When selecting an export format, consider the intended use for your design and choose a format that best suits your needs.
In Conclusion
Exporting AI files from Adobe Illustrator is a straightforward process that allows you to save your designs in a format that preserves their editability and quality. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your artwork is ready for further editing, sharing, or use in other applications. Whether you choose to export in AI format or another supported format, Adobe Illustrator provides the tools you need to make the most of your designs.
