Illustrator: Ungrouping of objects

[squabbish]

From time to time I will recieve an EPS or PDF with vector graphics from a client. When I attempt to move objects around, they will all be locked together as if they were grouped, but ungrouping/unlocking does not work.

I am able to get a hold of individual shapes using the direct selection tool (white arrow) but that will often result in a less than ideal selection.

Does anoyne know of a quick and effective workaround for this?

I've also experimented with the layers palette, but that's not very effective either.

Cheers!

[garricks]

I'm assuming you're working in Illustrator. Try
Object > Clipping Mask > Release
and/or
Object > Compound Path Release.

WARNING! Play with these commands on a copy of the file. They can generate unintended results if you don't know what you're doing. See the Illustrator HELP file for more information.

[squabbish]

Thanks for your reply!
Although this did release the spell that my shapes are under, sadly it took a few shapes with it into the abyss...

[CkretAjint]

Yepp, def a clipping mask. Compound paths are normally listed as that in the layer. Clipping masks just appear as a <grouped> object.

[garricks]

Work slowly with the direct selection (white arrow) tool and be ready to undo when you have an unexpected result. The shapes are probably still there...check wireframe mode.

[urstwile]

This is where the layers palette can be your friend. If you do an expanded view it'll show just what type of objects you've got selected. I've been using this a lot to troubleshoot problem files, it's really helpful.