Select the Group Selection tool from the tool panel, and then select the Live Paint group you want to expand.
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to expand and release Live Paint groups to convert your artwork into fully editable vector shapes.
Expand Live Paint groups
When you expand a Live Paint group, Illustrator converts it into one or more standard paths while preserving the look of your painted faces and edges. Expanded paths allow detailed styling with the Appearance panel, strokes, brushes, and transparency.
Select Object > Live Paint > Expand.
Select and move the individual paths as needed.
Release Live Paint groups
Releasing a Live Paint group changes it to one or more ordinary paths with no fill and a 0.5 pt black stroke.
Select the Group Selection tool, and then select the Live Paint group to release.
Select Object > Live Paint > Release.
Select and move the individual paths as needed.
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