How to Add Vector Packs to Illustrator

Use vector packs to simplify your design work.

A vector pack is a collection of artwork created by designers that you can download and incorporate into your own artwork. They can save a lot of time for designers and are often free, but they many have restrictions based on the license provided by the designer. If the file size is large, the designer will often compress it to reduce the file size. Once the file is unzipped, you should be able to open the file in Adobe Illustrator like any Illustrator file. You can then copy the artwork into your own or add the artwork to your symbols so the vector images are readily available.

Things You'll Need

• Unzip program

Instructions

Open the Vector Pack

1. Download the desired vector pack. Make sure you trust the site to avoid downloading malicious software.

2. Unzip the downloaded file if necessary. The unzipped folder should contain an .eps or .ai file depending on the vector pack.

3. Open Adobe Illustrator. Click on the “File” menu and select “Open.”

4. Navigate to and select the desired vector pack file.

Copy

1. Select the desired artwork from the vector pack.

2. Press “Control+C” to copy the artwork.

3. Open the illustration to which you want to add the vector pack artwork.

4. Press “Control+V” to paste the artwork into your illustration.

Add to Symbols

1. Hold down the “Shift” key and select all of the symbols. Click on the “Delete Symbol” icon to clear the Symbol panel.

2. Select the desired artwork from the vector pack artboard.

3. Click on the Symbol panel flyout menu and select “New Symbol.”

4. Name the symbol. Click on the “Type” drop-down menu and select “Graphic.” Click “Ok.”

5. Add the remaining artwork to the Symbol panel.

References

• GoMediazine.com; Step by Step: Using the Vector Packs; Jeff Finly

Resources

• Smashing Magazine; The Ultimate Collection Of Free Vector Packs; Steven Snell; January 16th, 2009