To lock a layer in Adobe Illustrator, go to the overhead menu and select Window > Layer. Or you can click on the empty square box after the eye icon in the Layer panel to lock it.
Locking a layer in Illustrator helps you to stay organized when working on complex objects. You can easily edit and move elements around without disrupting the entire design. You can lock, unlock, add, or delete layers.
Hi, I am Rita. I have been using Adobe Illustrator for over five years, and When I started using Illustrator, I often left all my objects in one layer, making my workspace disorganized. However, locking layers while designing has helped me prevent costly mistakes.
In this article, I will show you how to lock layers in Adobe Illustrator.
Note: All screenshots are from Adobe Illustrator CC Windows Version. Mac and other versions may appear different.
Table of Contents
How to Lock an Entire Layer in Illustrator
You can lock the entire layer if you don’t want objects in the layer to move while working on other layers. Let’s lock an entire layer in a few steps.
Step 1: Open the Layers panel from the overhead menu and select Window > Layer.
Step 2: Click on the empty square box after the eye icon in the Layer panel to lock it.
You will see a padlock icon when the layer is locked.
How to Lock Specific Objects in a Layer in Illustrator
Depending on what you want to achieve with your design, you can lock specific objects in a layer instead of the entire one. That way, you can edit other objects within the layer.
Let’s see how this works in a few quick steps.
Step 1: Select the object(s) you want to lock.
Step 2: Go to the overhead menu, select Object > Lock > Selection, or use the keyboard shortcut Command/Ctrl + 2.
That’s it! Layer locked.
How to Unlock Layers in Adobe Illustrator
Want to make an edit on a locked layer but don’t know what to do? Simply click on the padlock icon on the layer to unlock it.
To unlock objects on a layer, go to the overhead menu and select Object > Unlock All.
How to Hide a Layer in Illustrator
You can easily hide a layer in Illustrator by clicking the eye icon. The layer isn’t visible if you don’t see the eye icon and vice versa.
Final Thought
Whether safeguarding essential elements, streamlining your workflow, or collaborating with others, locking a layer can save you time and prevent unintended mishaps. So, remember to lock your layers in Illustrator when working on complex Illustrator projects. It’s a quick way to ensure a smooth workflow process.
Do you have any questions? Let us know in the comment section.
