Shape Builder Tool Problem

[palido]

Hi folks.

I'm having this issue that I can't seem to resolve. I have a couple of objects selected. One of them won't seem to "grey out" so that I can merge the objects. Haven't had this issue with any other objects in the design. The object in question isn't grouped. See video. Help? 

[tromboniator]

The most likely cause would be a gap in the path. Check to see if the path is closed, or double-click on the Shape Builder Tool in the Toolbar to bring up the Tool options. See if Gap Detection is active, and if so try adjusting to a greater gap length.

[palido]

Thanks for the reply.

I tried Gap Detection with all sizes. Also tried the other various options within the shape builder tool. Still having the same problem. 

[tromboniator]

Is it possible for you to share the document?

[palido]

Absolutely. A dumbed down version....

https://www.dropbox.com/s/7d2e557k4cye1ef/ShapeBuildIssue.ai?dl=0

Thanks! 

[tromboniator · Accepted solution]

Thanks for sharing that. The problem seems to be that the large construction is a Compound Shape, and the Shape Builder Tool requires simple paths. Go to either the Object menu > Expand Appearance or to the Pathfinder panel and click Expand. The Pathfinder panel flyout menu also has Expand Compound Shape. That should allow the behavior you're expecting.

Peter

[palido]

That did the trick. Thanks for the assist Peter!

[tromboniator]

Excellent! You're welcome. I'm glad I could help.

[Angel5FCA]

Expand appearance is greyed out 

[tromboniator]

Could you please start a new thread and provide details about your problem? This thread is marked as having a correct answer, and we have no way of knowing whether or not your question is even remotely similar to the original post.

Thanks,
Peter