Select the object using the Selection tool.
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to expand objects in Illustrator.
While expanding an object, you convert its appearance attributes into objects. For example, if you expand a simple object, such as a circle with a solid-color Fill and a Stroke, both Fill and Stroke become discrete objects.
Select Object > Expand.
Note
If the object has appearance attributes applied to it, then Object > Expand is greyed out. In this case, select Object > Expand Appearance and then, select Object > Expand.
In the Expand dialog box, set the given options as needed:
- Object: Expands complex objects, including live blends, envelopes, symbol sets, and flares.
- Fill: Expands Fill attributes into separate, editable objects.
- Stroke: Expands strokes into outlined paths.
Tip
Press Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) as you select Object > Expand to expand a Gradient using the settings last entered in the Expand dialog box.
Select Gradient Mesh under Export Gradient To section in the Expand dialog box to expand Gradient into a single mesh object.
Select OK.
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