How do I stop white patches from appearing after using an effect in Illustrator?

[kathrynj20421102]

Every time I create a shape then apply an effect to it, the gaps where the effects have taken place are filled in by white and no matter what I try, I just can't seem to get rid of them. All I want is to create an effect on a shape (e.g. Spatter) with the result of having transparent edges and not white ones, does anyone know how to resolve/fix/do this?

[Barbara Ash]

It's because you are applying a Photoshop effect within Illustrator and the vector shape is being converted to an image.

[kathrynj20421102]

Really? I am using Illustrator so that's weird. Here is another screenshot where the white edges appear with the effect:

[Barbara Ash · Accepted solution]

Sorry, I realized after posting that you are applying a Photoshop effect within Illustrator. Therefore, the vector shape is being converted to a raster image.

A way around that is after applying the effect, select the object and choose Object > Rasterize. Then use the Image Trace command in the Properties panel. Open the Image Trace Panel and expand the Advanced section and put a checkmark on Ignore White. Back in the Properties panel, click on Expand. 

That will get you back to a vector shape. Of course, it will no longer be an effect. Since it will not be editable as an effect make sure it looks the way you want before following this procedure.

[kathrynj20421102]

After following this and fiddling around with a few settings, I'm happy to say it worked, thank you so much, Babara, you've been great!

[Barbara Ash]

That's gratifying -- I'm so glad it worked for you!