May. 14, 2009
Reusing graphics and text…
Snippets can save you loads of time, especially when it comes to repetitive elements that you use over and again.
To create a Snippet, all you need to do is select either an individual page element or multiple page elements. For instance, I could select just a logo or I could select a logo and a text frame. Now all you need to do is drag the selected elements to your desktop. I know that may seem strange at first, however now you’ll see a file has been created on your desktop. It should have a file name similar to this: Snippet_3001C897A.idms. You may want to rename it so it has some relevance to what it actually is, especially if you’re going to be creating lots of Snippets.
This Snippet can now be placed bank into any other new or existing document. To place on your page simply drag the Snippet back onto a document page. You could also place the Snippet as you would any other graphic using File > Place.
It may benefit you to go through your jobs and make as many Snippets as is relevant, so you can easily place all sorts of design elements very quickly next time round, instead of having to dig through old archives to find what you’re looking for in the future. You can create a Snippet of as many items as you like. You could even create a Snippet of a complete page.
The best thing about Snippets for me though, is the fact that a Snippet is generally really small in file size, meaning I can email it off to someone on the other side of the world. They then can place that Snippet directly onto their document page.
Any swatches and styles associated to the elements within a Snippet will automatically come into a document when that Snippet is placed on a page.
Two things to be aware of are:
- Snippets created in CS4 aren’t compatible in CS3 by default
- If you create a Snippet of a linked graphic and send that Snippet to someone else, they need to have access to the location of that link in order for it to not appear as missing. If they don’t have access to the link you will need to send it to them and get them to relink to it in the links panel.
For more information on this topic via Adobe help click here.
[Click play to watch video tutorial, will commence once downloaded in full]
2 Responses to “InDesign Snippets”
A definite time saver these snippets, when doing brochure work.
By Training Connection on Jun 15, 2009