Distributing Objects to Layers

Have some artwork with a bunch of pieces that is all sitting on one layer? Forgot to turn on the option to Remember Layer info? Want to take those pieces and put them all on their own layers fast? Well ask no more, this tip will get exactly what you want in only a couple of minutes.

While there isn't a command to do this directly, you can use FreeHand's ability to Release to Layers following the below instructions.

Version: 7 and above

1) The above example is a simple illustration that is made up of a bunch of stacked groups. Right now they are all on one layer, but I want to put them on their own separate layers keeping the stacking order and groups intact. First select all the objects and Copy them. Note: There was another reason I drew this cartoon. It's hidden somewhere in this site. Can you find it? ;-)

2) In a new document, create an empty Text box. Then Paste in the copied objects. You may need to expand the text box to see all of the objects. You've now created an Inline graphic.

3) Next go into the Xtras menu -> Animate -> Release to Layers. This will release all of your objects to individual layers in the proper stacking order, keeping any groups, etc. intact. Version Addendum In FreeHand 9 and above, select the Sequence option. The other options will give you multiple copies of the same images on the layers. See in the example above that I've selected the computer. It's still grouped and is in the correct layer stacking order. Now I can rename all of the new layers appropriately. Special Note You may not be able to select the objects once released to layers. To remedy this, save the document and close it. Then reopen the document and all should be selectable.

The feature "Release to Layers" was not actually built for the intention that I described, otherwise they'd call it "Distribute to Layers" and NOT have it in the Animate menu. Maybe it should be renamed "Distribute to Layers" because it could get more use with that name.

The reason it's under the Animate menu, is because it's original intent is for Flash use. Since you can only Release to Layers Blends and Text, and you can paste Inline graphics inside Text boxes, the logical step is to paste in other kinds of objects in a text box, then releasing them to layers.

To see how to use this technique for Flash, check out the tip Animating "Other" Objects tip in the Tips Archive.