Nested grouped contours

Here's an idea I've been toying with about nested grouped contours.

First of all can I agree with you about nested shapes I think we should have more control right over all the spectrum when using the vector tools of nested shapes or groups. The way that I would do your stars in a cloud would be slightly different and If I have time I will try and post it:

Draw stars
Group them
Convert to editable shapes
Apply 1 step contour
Convert to editable shapes
Ungroup
Select the outside contour
Change Colour of the contour
Apply 1 Step Contour
Convert to editable shapes
Ungroup
Select the outside contour
Change the colour of contour
Draw clouds
Put to back
Apply 1 step contour
Convert to editable shapes
Ungroup
Select outside contour

I think I may have missed one step in that process "Join Shapes" but the process is quite simple.

I did this one by applying a 4 step contour, then adjusting the position profile, then convert to editable shapes, then I applied colours, drips etc.

Frances beat me to it. Here is my effort and yes I adjusted the profiles as well. That make my first post a load of old toffee, sorry about that but once I started it just came to me.