Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 12/17/2008

Question
Hi, I am working on a design in illustrator with two layers and I was hoping
there is an easy way to save only the parts of the layers that are visible.  I will
be submitting the .eps file to the silk screener and I'm afraid i will have
overlapping images.  For instance, my design consists of a logo layer that is
placed above an artwork layer.  When a screen is made for each layer i don't
want the entire artwork layer printed because the logo will be printed on top,
creating an area of ink that is too thick.  Basically when i export the design, i
would like to have the logo layer subtracted from the artwork layer so that it
is seamless, but not overlapping.  I hope you can help, thanks!

Answer
Hi Judson,

You are talking about overprinting and knockouts. The easiest way to ensure that your image will separate out properly is to print a proof yourself. In the print window under the Output option, choose Host-Based Separations instead of Composite (RGB/CMYK, etc). Then print your art.

This will print the different colors on a separate sheet of paper and you can see if there are any issues.

Unless you changed an objects attributes to overprint, everything should knock out and there should be no overlap. Even when you use layers, the underlying artwork knocks out automatically when you have both layers turned on.

If you really want to be safe, flatten your art into one layer.

Thanks

Kevin