This Illustrator tip is written by Kelly Jay, co-founder of Graphic Leftovers - a supported iSyndica Illustrations site.

Almost all microstock sites require you to save vector artwork as AI8 EPS files. I know it sounds crazy to save a file created in CS4 back almost 7 versions but there is a good reason for this requirement.

It is called PostScript 3.0.

This version of postscript allows users of other vector programs such as Freehand, Corel Draw, etc. to open and edit vector files created in Adobe Illustrator.  AI8 was the last version to utilize this postscript level. Microstock sites realize that their customers use a variety of software on both PC and Mac platforms so AI8 EPS is the smart and lucrative choice.

Unsupported Features in AI8 EPS

Unfortunately not all CS4 special effects and features will convert nicely to the older format. Here are a couple features you should pay close attention to:

Transparencies

AI8 did not have a transparency feature. So if you try and save your file down to AI8, the fills in your file might rasterize and become non-editable or become pixellated. Transparent objects can also cause your shapes to break open. Try to avoid transparencies as a rule, but if you do, you will need to flatten and trim them before you export.  

Gradients

Gradients can also be a pain. Gradients created in Freehand and other 3D rendering programs don't work well in Illustrator. When a Freehand EPS opens into Illustrator, the shape slices itself into dozens of tiny pieces, making it impossible to edit.  If you're working in a program other than Illustrator, you should probably avoid gradients all together.

Gradient Mesh

Gradient mesh is a great tool for creating simple gradients to complex photo-realistic effects. Unfortunately, gradient meshes will not work in programs other than Illustrator, so some buyers might not be able to edit your file. Most microstock sites will accept your files with meshes because they are compatible with AI8. Make sure you note in your description of your artwork that you utilized mesh gradients so potential buyers will know in advance.

Practice Makes Perfect

It may take a while to get used to designing in a lower postscript version and you might experience a few rejections from the microstock sites to get your files just right.  Seems like a lot of work, but if converting your files to AI8 EPS allows more buyers to download your artwork then it was well worth the effort.

About Kelly Jay

Kelly graduated with a BFA from the University of Kansas in 1985 and has worked as a graphic designer for several design studios, agencies and as a freelancer for the last 7 years. She has worked on several Fortune 500 accounts such as, Hewlett-Packard, Nissan, Toyota, Ingram Micro, Kraft, Callaway Golf and the St. Louis Rams. In January of 2007 she met her business partner, Daniel Errante, a young innovative web developer. With their combined talents, they created Graphic Leftovers.com, a member-generated design marketplace. Launching the site with only 200 graphics (Kelly's leftover designs) the site has grown at a tremendous pace.