Expert: Amy - 5/11/2009

Question
I'm used to working with InDesign and when I need the file and its linked images to burn to a CD to take to a printer I use the Packaging function.  Does Illustrator have a similar function such as Packaging to link all if its files together when having to take to an outside printer?

Thanks,


Answer
Hi Stephanie,

No there isn't.

Check out ArtFiles for Mac
http://www.code-line.com/software/artfiles/

or Scoop for multiple platforms
http://www.worker72a.com/

They both cost money but might be worth it if you use the feature a lot. I have not used either of those (too cheap =).

I usually "collect" my artwork by doing a "Save As" then choosing either AI or EPS and checking the [ ] Embed linked images option before completing the save. Of course the resulting file is sometimes humongous and not easily transported via ftp/email.

I use Yousendit.com (they have a free trial and a "lite" account which is also free) for sending huge files to printers that I work with a lot. Ask your printer how they prefer to receive large files.

Good luck!
Amy