🚀 go-pugleaf

      I wish I knew applescript or javascript because I assume it would be simple
      to code.




Well, if you really wish you knew Javascript, this would be an excellent first attempt, because it would be relatively easy.

If you care to, you could even use the script named JET_StackTopToBottom.jsx, downloadable from here <http://www.illustrationetc.com/AI_Javascripts/TransformScripts.htm> as a starting point.

That script stacks items top-to-bottom, based upon their Y (vertical) positions on the page. I wrote it to address a chronic problem with text objects on imported CAD files.

But I am yet to see the actual value of the stated purpose in this thread, creating a clipping mask. Illustrator's built-in treatment for invoking scripts is far from convenient, and has been a complaint of mine since I started scripting AI. Going to the File menu, waiting for the Scripts submenu to appear, then selecting the desired script among the others there is tedious beyond words for something the whole purpose of which is to perform a quick and simple transformation.

So I really wouldn't expect that to be quicker or more convenient than simply selecting the object you intend to use as the clipping mask and typing "Ctrl-]" (bring to front). If that object is the rearmost, and is completely obscured, right-click and choose Select>LastObjectBelow (another too-tediously implemented feature).

You are supposed to be able to call a script by including it in an Action. That would be ideal for quick access script calls. But that is prevented by a bug which has existed (and been much complained about) for four versions now.

JET