How to combine paths that are stacked on top of each other?

Forum|Forum|1 year ago
November 21, 2024
2 replies
1870 views

Sometimes when I use image trace for complex images it produces multiple layers of paths, sometimes in which paths in the exact same line are "stacked" on top of each other - in other words the trace process has produced multiple shapes and when you work with the paths (which I need to do to use in a vinyl cutting process) there are doubled lines in different sections. I've tried to explain with the attached photos - the first one shows one layer/path, the next with that one hidden and another highlighted that covers much of the same area. I would like to be able to combine/merge/flatten these paths into one rather than trying to wade through the layers and hand edit them. Is this possible?

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jeffo1499072Author

Participating Frequently

I added a link to the AI file- any advice would be welcome, please. Thank you!

_scott__

Legend

Path overlaps are necessary if shapes are to be separated and closed. Two closed shapes can not share a single path. The only option is to overlap paths on a comon side.

jeffo1499072Author

Participating Frequently

Thank you - and I understand - but is there a way to join the shapes so that all the paths are preserved? Any of the options I have tried to join them results in losing/obscuring some part of the path.

Kurt Gold

Community Expert

It may be possible.

Can you share a sample Illustrator file for inspection?

jeffo1499072Author

Participating Frequently

Sure, here is the original AI file. You will see that the layers are a bit of a mess - I've already been playing with it - but you can quickly see parts that are perfect overlays and parts that are not. Thanks!