Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 8/7/2008

Question
QUESTION: Where is the trace tool in Adobe Illustrato CS3

ANSWER: Hi Joellen,

There is no trace "tool" in AI CS3, when you place an image in AI and have it actively selected, there is a button at the top of the options bar called "Live Trace" this function will allow you to automatically trace your image using the presets to the left or by customizing using the pop up palette.

Thanks

Kevin



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Kevin,

I found what you were talking about. How do I use live trace? Before with the trace tool I would click on what I wanted to trace. This new live trace doesn't seem to do that.

Answer
Hi Joellen,

Not sure what Trace tool you are referring to, Adobe Streamline was the old trace option.

You have to select the placed image (raster, photoshop, etc.) and then click the live trace tool. Using the presets, you can select the number of colors, etc. that you wish to use. Once you have the desired effect, click the Expand button at the top of the options bar and viola - its now an Illustrator object.

Hope this helps!

Kevin