Expert: Amy - 1/8/2004

Question
Hello - Please can you answer the following:
How do I either add and save symbols to the standard symbol library, so they stay there when ever I open a new document, restart illustrator etc..?

Or

How do I create and save my own Symbol library so I can open it when ever I wish and use it (and add it to the symbol libraries list with the others)..?

Appreciate any advice as this would be very handy. Creating symbols is obviously very basic and saving them with your document, but creating one to appear (or open) every time I open a new document seems to be a problem!

Kind Regards

Answer
Hi Lee,

All AI files are, in fact, potential libraries. Once you've created your symbols in a document and saved it, you've created a library, you just need to load it.

Now move that file into the 'Symbols Presets' folder, then launch Illustrator. Open the library as you would any library, like Brushes or Swatches, and choose the "Persistent" option in the menu.

It will automatically (persistently) open the next time you launch AI.

Good luck,
Amy