Select one or more paths, compound paths, or both with the Selection tool from the Tool panel.
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to convert artwork into Live Paint groups.
When you want to color each edge or section of your artwork differently, convert it into a Live Paint group. However, certain objects, such as text, images, or artwork with brushes and effects, can’t be made into Live Paint groups directly. Direct conversion of objects with complex effects to Live Paint may remove some details. To retain much of the appearance, convert it to paths first, then to a Live Paint group.
Select the Live Paint Bucket tool, and then select the desired object.
Tip
You can also convert objects to a Live Paint group from Object > Live Paint > Make.
Do any of the following for objects that don’t directly convert to Live Paint groups:
- To convert text, select Type > Create Outlines, and then use the Live Paint Bucket tool to turn the outlines into a Live Paint group.
- To convert bitmap images, select Object > Image Trace > Make.
- To convert other objects, select Object > Expand, and then use the Live Paint Bucket tool to turn the objects into a Live Paint group.
Note
Once you turn artwork into a Live Paint group, you can’t convert it back to the original. You can expand the group into its individual components or release the group back to its original paths with no fill and a 0.5 pt black stroke. Certain properties like transparency and effects may be lost when converting to a Live Paint group, and some objects, such as type, bitmap images, and brushes, can’t be converted.
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