PDF line weights change when embedded

[mattr8322047]

Hi

I am trying to create a figure for a scientific paper

I have saved several graphs as PDF files and want to arrange them correctly using Illustrator

When I import them, they look fine

However, if I try and embed them into the document (so I dont need to keep the original files and locations), the line weights change such that when I export to preview, they look awful - see attached

Anyone got any ideas or am I doing something really stupid

Thanks

[Ton Frederiks]

Are you looking at the files in Acrobat?

There is a Preferences > Page Display option: Enhance thin lines.

If that's not causing it, can you share an example file?

[Monika Gause · Accepted solution]

Looks like you created those files with some third party app.

Then things like this just tend to happen.

Try and instead of embedding the files:

Select them and Object > Flatten transparency. You might need to check "Outline strokes"

[mattr8322047]

Thanks Tom. No. In Preview on Mac

But looks the same in Acrobat even when I turn off that checkbox

Monika - that seems to have worked but not sure why! (thanks!)

Does this mean that if I delete the original files (or move them), that the illustrator file will still maintain the same images within it?

i.e what does flatten transparency do that is different from embedding the files?

THanks again both

Matt

[Monika Gause]

Flatten transparency also embeds the files.

SInce your files originate in some other app, the stroke weight might be applied in some really unconventional way that Illustrator interprets in a different way. When flattening transparency Illustrator outlines the strokes without first applying its own interpretation.