Layers strategy

[jerol]

As a long-time Photoshop user, I've learned to endlessly create new layers as I work, then merge them down as I no longer need the separation. And eventually flatten a copy of the image to one layer as I make final other file format copies.

This strategy doesn't seem to cross over to Illustrator. In fact, it appears to be better to let Illustrator just keep putting new objects on one layer.

Could the Illustrator users here comment on this, please, and share your layer strategies? E.g.,

For what reasons do you make new layers?
What do you call all those sub-layer thingies under a layer in the Layer Pallet? Objects?
When do you merge layers?

Thanks.

[Scott Weichert]

In Illustrator I tend to think in sections when dealing with layers. Basically back to front. I'll put parts of an illustration on their own layers, but I don't create layers for every element.

For instance this image: http://www.illustratortechniques.com/gallery/view/image/305 contains 4 layers - background (carpet, walls), mid-ground (torches, tapestries), foreground (throne), and the woman. Each of these layers contain all the elements that relate to their position in the piece.

Layer use in Illustrator is more about element management than about actual construction. I've never found the need to merge Illustrator layers. If the art needs to be put into a different file I simply select all, copy, then paste in the new file on a new layer.

[jerol]

Scott, great explanation and example of how you see the difference in use of layers.

Thanks for responding, and thanks for sharing your art work - it is beautiful. I can see how you visualized your layers and I really enjoyed the sense of depth that comes through.