8 replies to this topic

[Lui]

Hi!
Is there any way in AI CS2 to select empty (unused) layers in one step? I'm importing maps from OCAD (AI export) and each OCAD symbol definition has a corresponding layer in AI, even the empty ones. If I export just a bunch of symbols then I have to delete approx. 100 layers.

Thanks

Lui

[Matthew Hampton]

I can't think of anything other than ordering the empy layers consecutively in the layers palette then select the top layer and shift-select the bottom empty layer.

I wonder if there is something you could do on the OCAD end?
__
Matthew

[Martin Gamache]

It might be easier to cut in past your desired layers into a new document.

[Lui]

It might be easier to cut in past your desired layers into a new document.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Yes it could be. Good idea, Martin. But if I'm at 50:50 situation (empty:occupy) I'm having a trouble. Well maybe several minutes of layer selection isn't such waste of time after all. Does somone know a script or a plug-in that can solve my problem?

Good night from snowy Slovenia

Lui

[Martin Gamache]

Lui,

I would suggest searching the ADOBE Studio exchange,script section someone may have a script that deletes empty layers...you might find some other useful things there...

[Hans van der Maarel]

Lui,

How about this:

- Unlock all your layers
- Select all
- Copy to clipboard
- Create a new document
- Make sure "Paste Remembers Layers" is active (in the latest Illustrator versions it's in the submenu of the layers palette, older versions have it in the Preferences)
- Paste

I just checked this in Illustrator CS and it works. It's a bit of a hassle with large, complex documents, but I think it's the best you can do without having to go to a custom plug-in or script.

[Matthew Hampton]

That's a great solution Hans.

Cheers to you.

[Rick Dey]

Unlock all layers, select all. This will show you which layers have something in them in the layers palette by the little selection icon. Now Command click each layer that is empty, this will select non-contiguous layers. After selecting all those that have nothing showing in them click the trash can.

OK, I know that Command key is a Mac thing, but not having a PC in front of me, I believe Control-Alt will allow you to select non-contiguous items on your PC.

[Hans van der Maarel]

OK, I know that Command key is a Mac thing, but not having a PC in front of me, I believe Control-Alt will allow you to select non-contiguous items on your PC.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It's control for non-contiguous and shift for contiguous items.