Release or expand blended objects

Last updated on 3 Aug 2026

Learn how to release or expand blended objects in Illustrator to convert them into individual, editable shapes.

Release blended objects

When you release a blended object, it removes the new objects and restores the original objects.

Select the blended object using the Selection tool.

Select Object > Blend > Release.

You can also select Release from the Blend panel to release a blend

The release option is highlighted under the Object > Blend menu in Adobe Illustrator.
Restore the original options from the blended objects by selecting Release.

Expand blended objects

When you expand a blended object, it divides the blend into distinct objects that you can edit individually, like any other object.

Select the blended object using the Selection tool.

Select Object > Blend > Expand.

You can also select Expand from the Blend panel to expand a blend

The Expand option is highlighted under the Object > Blend menu in Adobe Illustrator.
Edit the blended objects individually by selecting Expand.

For all the blend controls in one place, see Blend panel overview.