Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 2/9/2011

Question
I am working in Illustrator CS3.
I have imported an image and used Live Trace to make the image vector. Now, I find that I have to create a cut line for the digital printer for a vinyl product.
Typically, I would just create a copy and make a new layer with no fill to create an outline of the object for the cut line.
Live Trace made over eight thousand little tiny paths inside and connected to the actual edge paths. YIKES!
Now, to create a cut line, I need to get rid of several thousand teensy paths which are completely unimportant to the object as the fill is solid. Obviously, I am missing something vital.
I have tried the knife tool, the simplify object tool, and every other thing I can think of. Do I need to reimport the image and do---something?
Is it easier to put in Photoshop and fill then bring back into Illustrator and Live Trace the solid colored object?
I see this being a recurring issue. Please, please instruct me!

Answer
Hi Julie,

Yes, Im sure you have a mess. Have you tried using the eraser tool? It can erase unwanted paths and shapes. Be careful though, most die cut/cutlines are supposed to be a single solid path and not a filled outline like Live Trace would give you.

Thanks

Kevin