Save eps file from CorelDraw and keep gradients editable

Here you will learn a trick on how to save eps file from CorelDRAW and preserve gradients editable.

Over the years EPS format became the "industry standard" for vector graphics. Especially the illustrator 8 eps or illusrator 10 eps frmats.  It is required by clients, microstock websites and print houses because almost all graphic design software can open an eps file.
When you save eps from Adobe Illusrtator the gradients remain editable. Save eps from CorelDraw and gradents are break into small little pieces.

Corel Draw save in the standard eps format, but originally the eps format does not allow gradients or trasparency. The problem is this: the "industry standard eps" format is not the "standard eps", it is the illustrator eps format.

So if you want to export editable eps  from corel draw, you must save fist .ai file and rename it to .eps
Here is step by step tutorial:
1. Open your .cdr file. Use "File > save as" or "File > export" functions

2. Pick up "AI - Adobe illusrtator" from the "save as type" list

3. Pick illustratr 8 (or  10). Uncheck al boxes, like in the image below. Click OK.

4. Change extension from .ai to .eps.
For example is you saved graphic1.ai you must rename it to graphic1.eps
If you don't see the extension of your files, you must change windows settings.
There are tutorals online about this depending on your windows version. On my old windws xp machine this option is in Windows Explorer > Tools > Folder optons > view > uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types"
5. That's it! Now you can edit the eps inside CorelDRAWor Adobe illustrator and gradient fills are editable.

Notes:
1. Inside Corel Draw, use only Linear and Radial gradient fill. Adobe Illustrator don't have conical, square or other gradient types available in CorelDRAW. The reason is because the Post Script Level 3 standard only have linear and gradient fills.
2. If you deform objects after you applied gradients this trick might not work, especially with radial gradients. I did not encounter problems while deforming linear gradients, but further research and testing is necessary to avoid any data loss.
3. To preserve a clean vector file avoid effects like: transparency, drop shadow, feather etc. This effects are rendered as bitmaps when you try to export as ai / eps.

Don't be a stranger! Leave a comment if you like this or if you have questions.