Eraser tool won't engage in Illustrator

[SwaggyBuzz]

When I hit the Eraser tool and select Eraser tool, the Eraser tool does not engage. Instead it shows up with the pencil as the selection and it has a circle and a slash right next to it. It worked as it should just a couple of projects agao. I'm just trying to make a transparent background on a Santa hat. I'm new to Illustrator and I can't find the issue addressed in any of the online education, if you can imagine that. I'm also new to this online community and I would greatly appreciate any tips to help me acheive my goal of putting a Santa hat on Big Foot. Thanks and regards. 

[Monika Gause · Accepted solution]

You first need to license that stock image in order to get a vector version of it. What you have now is a pixel artwork and you cannot use the eraser on that.

[SwaggyBuzz]

Thanks Monica! It is an image from Adobe Stock and even though it is labeled as an .ai file, it does not have all the editing privileges of AI. 

I appreciate your help🙏🏻

[Monika Gause]

You're welcome.

What you have downloaded is just the preview.

They only give you the vector file after licensing the image (and paying for it).

I suppose you could also find a vector hat as a free vector stock image. Just search "Free vector clipart" in your favourite search engine.