Can't replace or delete a color in the swatches

[OMVQ]

Hi, I use CS5, I have a color that I want to delete to replace but I can't. Can you help me? Thanks!!

[winterm]

Are you sure it isn't used in some placed vector artwork (say, Illustrator file)? That could be the reason.

[dave c courtemanche]

Provided the color isn't in used in your document, create a box. Fill with problem color. Copy box. Paste box into illustrator. Copy box. Paste into Indesign. Delete box. Can you remove the swatch now?

[Jeff Witchel, ACI]

If none of the above works, Export your file as an IDML file and then reopen the IDML in InDesign. Swatches that won't delete are one of the signs of a corrupted document. Exporting as an IDML will usually fix the issues in a document.

[miriamdd]

I had the same problem today. I was trying to replace a swatch and InDesign wouldn't let me. I'm using CS 13.1. I discovered first, that I had two monotone pieces of art and I had only changed one of them. Then, I still wound up with two colors named with the same Pantone color. I had to change the name in the Photoshop monotone to the exact name in InDesign ("Pantone" vs "PANTONE") before I could wind up with just one color. When I didn't use all caps for "Pantone" in PS, it didn't work. I hope this helps someone!