Expert: Amy - 5/18/2007

Question
Why are AI file sizes so big? An example: I'm working on a very simple vector
file, a logo with no gradients, fonts or bitmaps and the AI file is 424 kb. If I
export as AI 3 and open in Freehand MX and save, the FH file (fully editable with
nothing missing) is only 40 kb.
AI CS 2
Mac platform

Answer
Hi Alexander.

They are, they are. But there's an Action in the Actions Palette called something like Cleanup Unused Swatches, Brushes...  if you run that one and then save the file, you'll reduce the size.

I've heard that saving without PDF compatibility actually makes the file larger, so don't try that!

-Amy