importing layers

[edm3]

I'm trying to bring some vector work into Xara, and I'm finding the best way (so far) is via illustrator. In .ai I've been able to maintain the source layers from my original file (from another application).
Problem is, importing both .pdf and .ai files into xara don't include the layers. It's killing my workflow!!
Anyone have any ideas/workarounds? Suggestions would be most welcome!
Thanks.

[edm3]

might just have it here with EPS.. fingers crossed

[ad1066]

If it was just a one-time thing to try and get some work out of Illustrator into Xara, I would recommend exporting each layer to a separate PDF file, then importing one at a time and copying/pasting the contents into the desired layer on the .xar file. However, I certainly wouldn't recommend that process if this is to be a regular occurrence. Eeek.

-- Ben

[MarcT]

Hi edm3, saving in .ai v8 appears to maintain layer information.
Maybe other versions will work also.

Marc

[edm3]

Yeah Ben, I even tried that - painFULL!

Marc - great suggestion - I was only saving out as CS4, and it wasn't working - tried a V8, and it worked great!

So there is light....

Thanks!

[Albacore]

As you have found out use the Legacy format to bring you files in. Also if you use the PDF way save on the first level of the save menu you get the option to "save Layer of the top most layer levels". It works for me if you use PDF 7 or 8 that is as high as I can go as I have only CS3 Illy.

[edm3]

Good info. Thanks Albacore.
BTW - I did a quick test saving out as an .ai version 10 - and it brought in the layers, but renamed them to generic names. So far my happiest place is .ai v8 files.
Cheers!