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Most information also applies to version 6.5 and earlier versions.
We assume you are familiar with the basic use of PageMaker and are aiming to send a high resolution file to Pagefast for printing.
Before you start take note of the Preferences Set-up panel just below the PageMaker 7 image on the right for important information.
Basics:
PageMaker is relatively easy to learn and use and has features similar to other professional Desk Top Publishing software packages such as Quark
Xpress and Adobe InDesign.
However there are certain things which need to be fully understood before use - especially if planning to send your work for professional printing.
Basic Rules: For additional info click on the highlighted text links - This should open a new window but you may need to click “Back” in your browser to get back to this page or select from side link.
Graphics:
- ALWAYS ensure graphics are CMYK before placing in PageMaker unless printing greyscale. RGB will output grey if used.
- ALWAYS copy all graphics for a job into a separate folder with the PageMaker document file so they can be accessed easily.
- ALWAYS ensure minimum resolution (at size used) is 300dpi (preferred 350dpi) It does not matter if it is more than this. Never resize more than
20% maximum of original even if desperate!
- ALWAYS Hold down the shift key when resizing pictures to keep them in proportion otherwise you will stretch them out of shape.
- Where you require just a portion of a graphic use the Cropping Tool (similar to the hash #
sign on toolbox). After cropping you can resize the visible part of the graphic to fit using the pointer tool.
- ALWAYS ensure any graphics that Bleed off the page are 3mm over the edge of the page.
Rules and Guides:
- ALWAYS set up your document correctly and define the guides and columns. You can set up multiple master pages with say 2 columns, 3 columns etc and apply them to individual pages (see your PageMaker
Help section)
- Always USE the guides - don’t just place the text more or less where you think it looks ok. In multi-page jobs the reader will notice and it is bad practice
Text and Fonts:
- Avoid using too many fonts. Three or four maximum usually looks best. Make sure you supply all fonts used with your job (see Preflighting and “Save for Service Provider” on the right of this page)
- PageMaker has a story editor: Use it when correcting or altering long pieces of text. It is easier, quicker and enables a search and replace facility.
Go to Edit> Edit Story> or press (Control+E).
PDF output:
- PageMaker enables you to directly output PDF proof and high resolution print files. However do make sure the file IS ACTUALLY high resolution when sending to print. Best to PackPageMakerage the whole job including graphics if you are not 100% sure.
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