Stroke Linked Object

[alexs95275331]

Is there any way to stroke a linked [vector] object? I'm referring to one with transparency, and to stroking the content within the transparency. Drop shadow effect works properly on such an object, so I'm assuming it's possible.

The goal is to maintain a consistent stroke (keyline) across different elements (logotypes) when cycling through variables/datasets.

[Kurt Gold]

Basically, it is possible, but more often than not the resulting stroke does not look very attractive.

- Select the linked image.
- In the Appearance palette, add a new stroke.
- To that stroke apply the Effect > Outline Object effect.
- Adjust the stroke weight and colour as desired.

[alexs95275331]

No visible effect.

Am I missing something?

[Kurt Gold]

Unfortunately, your screenshot is too small. I cannot decipher it.

[alexs95275331]

Scaled my UI up and made sure to attach the screenshot as "Large"...

[Kurt Gold]

What file format is the linked file?

And what does it contain? Is it vector art or pixel art?

[alexs95275331]

EPS. Contains vector art.

Same results (or lack thereof) with linked AI and PDF files.

Sorry everything's so small. Please scale/zoom the page for better legibility.

[Mario Arizmendi]

If the file is a vector eps file, why are you placing the file?

It's better if you open the file with illustrator, this way you can get the actual vectors and it will be easy to make any editions as you want.

Now, if the file isn't really a vector file, if it is pixel eps, then you want to try the method offered by Kurt, maybe you want to open the eps file (as it is a very old and discontinued format) with photoshop and resave as .psd format, then placed again in illustrator.

see my picture

[alexs95275331]

When you say "It's better if you open the file with illustrator," I'm assuming you mean edit the individual asset. I'd strongly prefer not to, as all strokes (keylines) across all each variable asset (of varying complexity & scale) must be identical.

Thanks for reminding me to include desired outcome. Just amended my original question.

[alexs95275331]

I've discovered a workaround using Drop Shadow, but the result is unusable as a keyline. Have I hit a wall?

[Kurt Gold]

Yes, I think you have hit a wall.

My approach was referring to pixel based file formats, such as .psd files.

The drop shadow workaround is no good alternative as well, obviously.

Unfortunately, at the moment I have no other idea that may do what you are looking for.

[alexs95275331]

Update: Round Corners effect gets rid of the aliasing. Placing the stroke appearance layer at the bottom of Contents keeps it from obstructing anything.

Not perfect, but maybe useful if asset overlap is minimal.

Also turned stroke scaling off in settings. Better for the keyline thing.