Using a Polar Bear Shape to "Cookie Cut"

[garlandh]

So basically Im making this logo, and I need the back to have a "henna" look that also features the background to it as white. Where I'm at right now is I took a Henna picture, and made it into outlines of black and white and got rid of the black so its henna with no background. Now I want to use a polar bear silhouette I made to cookie cut a part of it out to make it look like a henna polar bear silhouette. I have another exact same size white polar bear outline, instead of silhouette, that I'm going to place the new henna Polar bear silhouette into to make it a white outline, white henna polar bear that has a transparent henna background. So basically parts in the bear will be transparent too. I've tried pathfinder and cropping but it normally erases both images. Any help? Also I have looked it up.

[fenjas29325284]

Use Menu Object > Clipping mask to cut out.

Fenja

[barbara_a]

You don't need a second polar bear.

It's important to put the polar bear silhouette on top of the henna design.

I'm showing it here with a blue rectangle underneath everything so that you can see it better.

Select both the bear and the henna design and choose Object > Clipping Mask > Make. You end up with this:

With the Direct Selection tool, carefully click just the edge of the bear outline.

In the Appearance panel, choose Add new stroke.

Change the stroke color to white and increase the stroke weight as you wish.

[JETalmage]

Since you mention this being intended to serve as a logo (and therefore assuming it is for a paying client), be aware that resorting to clipping paths is not suitable for ways in which most logos are commonly reproduced. Most businesses need, for example, a sign. Merely masked paths (and live strokes) are not suitable for sign vinyl cutting, engraving, embroidery, etc., etc.

JET

[garlandh · Accepted solution]

Thanks guys I ended up finding out the issue. The clipping mask and the polar bear were not on the same layer apparently. So when I clipped it it would make both disappear. And this is for my business lol. I thought why pay someone like 1k$ when I can just make it myself, and it looks really good but it has taken me about 16 hours learning and making the logo but its a blast! I love illustrator!