Swatches are a convenient way to keep track of the colors in your document.

Using an existing color

  1. Make sure the swatch window is open by selecting Window > Swatches.
  2. Select the element you would like to take the color from, or press i for the eyedropper tool and click the element.
  3. Make sure the color you’d like to save is in front on the color tool (fill vs stroke).
  4. Click the New Swatch button near the bottom of the swatch window, or use the drop-down menu at the upper right-hand corner of the swatch window to select New Swatch....
  5. Name your color.
  6. Click OK, and your swatch will appear at the end of the list.
  7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 until all your colors are saved.