Pathfinder> Combine issue

[Kara_Stenberg@adobeforums.com]

In CS, Pathfinder > Combine no longer actually COMBINES the selected shapes into a SINGLE shape the way it used to. My current job revolves around illustrating technical parts: I basically do an outline of all the details, then convert all the paths into shapes. I'd normally combine all these shapes into a giant complex shape. With that done, I can use the Direct Selection tool (white arrow) to delete negative space shapes. Kind of like taking the hole out of a doughnut or the counter out of a lower-case "e".

However, I can't find a way in Illustrator CS to actually, completely combine all my shapes so that I CAN select and delete negative shapes like I used to. Instead, I'd have to actually draw in shapes to "patch over" the holes I don't want - and there are some COMPLEX things I'd be patching -- OR, downgrade back to Illustrator 10, which I really don't want to have to do.

Are there ANY ideas? Is there ANY way to totally combine shapes, not just "group" them the way the Pathfinder seems to now do?

[LRK@adobeforums.com]

If you Option Click on what used to be Combine it will combine all the overlapping shapes that are selected.

[Dee Holmes]

Unfortunatly, I hate Freehand. But I do like one termanalagy.

Punch Out. That is exactly what I want to do alot.

If I can't select an individusl piece and make compound/add then I'll try pathfinder.

[Kara_Stenberg@adobeforums.com]

LRK: THANK you so much! You are a life-saver. Actually, a work-saver. ;)

Dee: I agree - I tried very hard to learn and like Freehand but even with Illustrator hotkeys, I couldn't do it. I do have to agree with your stand on the terminology because that's what I've wanted to do to Illustrator for the last two days.

[LRK@adobeforums.com]

You're welcome Kara. I trust it worked for you in the way you wanted. I appreciate you coming back.

[hitpawz@adobeforums.com]

Downgrading back to V.10 wouldn't have helped anyway.

Ai10 requires you to hold option to expand the pathfinder commands too.