How to apply color to special Effects?

[4Pepper]

I'm beginning to think it is not possible to apply colors to special Effects. I am drawing mandalas in symmetry using Effect>Distort>Transform, but Live Paint doesn't work in this environment. Is there any way to color elements when drawing in symmetry?

[Myra Ferguson · Accepted solution]

When you use Effect > Distort & Transform > Transform to make repeating sections, the initial result is a copy of the original. Color the original and the copies will inherit the color. You may need to double-click to get to the object you want to color if they're grouped. If you want to make all the parts editable, you can go to Object > Expand Appearance.

[Jacob Bugge]

4Pepper,

What happens when you Expand Appearance, or is it necessary to change the colours while the effects are live?

Edit: Hi Myra.