2 Questions from a Beginner re Offset Path

[66caseys]

Hi, I have 2 questions regarding Offset Path. 

1., What is the difference between Object>Path>Offset Path and Effect>Path>Offset Path ? Is there a difference, or is this a case of there being multiple ways to do the same thing inside Illustrator?

2., Am I supposed to group after expanding an image that has an offset path? I do it, but Expand doesn't grey out after expanding, so I just want to make sure that's how it's supposed to work.

Thank you for the help, I really appreciate it.

[femkeblanco · Accepted solution]

• Object>Path>Offset Path:  Creates a second offset path. 
• Effect>Path>Offset Path:  Creates an effect, an appearance attribute, i.e. the path appears to be offset.  If you select the path or view it in Outline mode (Ctrl+Y), you'll see the path as it is underneath.  It only becomes an offset path when you click Object>Expant Appearance.  Plus, it does not create a second path. 

[66caseys]

Thank you femkeblanco, this is very helpful!

[66caseys]

Annnnd, I just found my answer to my question about grouping. I DO group.