Use (compound) paths like cookie cutters?

the best way can describe want is, how use shapes cookie cutters? know how use clipping masks in order achieve visual equivalent of this, want take resulting viewable area , turn own object/path. problem is, when i, let's say, create circle clipping mask on image, visual effect circular cutout of image, in illustrator terms, i'm left group made of clipping mask , image behind mask. want cutout, , want me able turn (compound) path.

 

i've read hundred different blogs/posts/tutorials, teach how create clipping mask, half of want do.

borosco,

 

the possible ways of achieving describe depends on nature of image/path cut.

 

in cases artwork cut consists of vector objects/paths, may cut them in different straightforward ways, such selecting cutting path (circle or other shape) , object>divide objects below, or use appropsriate pathfinder option.

 

in other cases, may destructive deed after applying clipping mask (which works on , @ least in senses will/may destroy underlying artwork), namely to:

 

1) in transparency palette/panel dropdown list select normal (multiply fine),

2) object>flatten transparency, keep defaults including 100% vector,

3) shudder.

 

this should rid of outside bounding box of clipping path (and will/may change remaining artwork, such turning strokes new filled paths no strokes).

 

in case, before doing irreverseible, remember keep/save original artwork.

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