Expert: Amy - 7/24/2006

Question
Hi Amy,
All of a sudden my gaussian blur option within effects/drop shadow is deactivated - and I'm not able to create a drop shadow with a gaussian blur. I've done some research online, but the suggestions out there do not work (ctr+shft+alt when starting illustrator, deleting the preferences file within illustrator settings, etc.)  Any suggestions, other than reinstalling it?  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Lynette.

There is some (possible) bug that makes effects not work in certain color modes but it only affects certain versions. You didn't mention which version of AI you were using.

So you should check your color spaces. Throw away both your AI color settings and PREFS and then re-start Illustrator. Then go to your Edit > Color Settings and select default US prepress (or whichever set you use.)

Create a new document and attempt a gaussian blur effect.

Then check your problem document.

Also, make sure your objects and your document are all in the same color space. Couldn't hurt.

Then, make sure your objects are all "eligible" for the effect. Check the appearances window and look for anything funny.

Although I can't recreate the problem right now, I do remember experiencing it in the past. If you could write me back and send me the file (AmyLynPace @ yahoo.com remove the spaces) that would be great.

Thanks!
Amy Pace