How to Merge Layers in Adobe Illustrator

Managing layers is an important aspect of Adobe Illustrator, just like it is in other Adobe programs. This feature supports your creativity, organization and efficiency as you add and edit elements in a new project. 

While layers work a little differently from program to program, the basics are similar. As you’ll see, actions like merging, grouping and flattening layers are possible in a range of programs, though you use them differently. In Illustrator, merging layers is a way to simplify complex designs and enhance the efficiency of your editing process. 

If you’re new to Adobe Illustrator, check out the following articles on some of the program’s major features and uses, all related to merging layers in some way:

This guide draws from Daniel Scott’s Adobe Illustrator CC–Essentials Training. As an Adobe-certified trainer and experienced digital designer, Daniel is an ideal instructor for beginners. He’s also likely to have helpful tips and tricks for the more experienced Adobe user. 

In his tutorial, Daniel mentions that he rarely uses layers in Adobe Photoshop, although it’s good to know how to access them and how they work. He demonstrates how to move objects from one layer to another, though he doesn’t really get into specifically merging layers.

The following steps are taken directly from Adobe Illustrator’s help files. Note: Technically, merging layers and grouping layers in Adobe Illustrator are two different things. 

You can access the Layers Panel by going to the Window tab and menu in the top bar or clicking on the right corner of the panel on the right side of your screen. 

To select the layers you want to merge, hold down Ctrl (Windows) or Command (Mac OS), then click the names of the layers you wish to merge. Another option is to hold down Shift to select each layer between the layers you click.   

Know that layers can only merge with other layers if they’re on the same hierarchical level in the Layers Panel. 

To actually make the layers merge, select “Merge Selected” in the Layers Panel menu. Understand that the layers will merge into the layer you selected most recently. 

In the Layers Panel, you’ll now see one layer into which the others have merged. 

Alternatively, you could physically drag the layers (with your mouse) into one group, then flatten them (select “Flatten Artwork” from the Layers Panel menu). This makes all visible items in the work consolidate into one layer.  

As a best practice, always save your work and its important components. When merging layers, save a backup copy before merging layers. This ensures that you avoid irreversible changes that you later decide weren’t right for the project. 

So, what are the benefits of merging layers? Simplification. Primarily, it’s a way to organize your project and reduce file complexity.  

If you’re completely finished with a few layers and need to move on to another section of the project, merging them can “set them aside” to ensure they aren’t adjusted by accident. It also streamlines the editing process; you can now treat a group of objects as one unit, and apply edits to them collectively rather than as individual pieces. 

For example, say you want to combine overlapping objects or consolidate elements in one logo design. Think of it like having a stack of clear folders, each with separate elements. If some of those folders are complete and will be presented together, you can combine them into one layer as you move on to other folders. 

According to Daniel, you don’t actually need to use layers much in Adobe Illustrator, and can usually leave things in just one layer. The exception he mentions is when you might use layers for tracing on top of things. 

Interestingly, when you add different elements to a piece, such as a shape and text in the same layer, Illustrator will organize them into sublayers within that layer. 

This means, if you want to reorder those elements within the layer, you can right click, or go to “Arrange” in the Properties Panel. You’ll have the option to “Send Back” or “Bring Forward” an object, moving it within the “stack” of sublayers. You can even send it all the way to the back (“Send to Back”) or put it on top (“Bring to Front”). 

Mastering layer management in Adobe Illustrator is vital for efficient workflows. It’s also important to understand how layers work differently in Illustrator than in other Adobe programs. 

Daniel’s class on Adobe Illustrator Essentials offers far more than information on layers. Check out the other lessons for guidance on navigating Illustrator and making the most of its tools and features.  

Skillshare offers a wide range of classes on Adobe Illustrator for both personal and professional projects:

Whether you’re just starting out or are seasoned in using Illustrator, there’s always more to learn from Skillshare’s expert craftspeople and teachers!