Make or release a compound path

A compound path is just when you combine multiple individual paths into one single path. Shapes must be converted to paths before being included in a compound path.

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For a quick reference of modifications that you can make to a path, see Direct Selection tool modifier keys (Blend) and Pen tool modifier keys (Blend).

To make a compound path

1. Select two or more paths you want to turn into a compound path. (To select multiple objects, hold the Ctrl key.)

2. On the Object menu, point to Path, and click Make Compound Path.

   The resulting path will replace the bottom-most path (in Z-order) that was selected before compounding, adopting that path's properties.

   Two paths converted to a compound path

   

You can break apart a compound path any time after you create it, however the original properties of the individual path objects will not be restored.

To release a compound path

1. Select the compound path.

2. On the Object menu, point to Path, and click Release Compound Path.