John Garrett shows you the xml code of the exported variable library from Adobe Illustrator. He explains the drawbacks of working with the xml file, and talks about using regular expressions to make things easier. He also goes over re-importing a revised xml variable libraryback into Illustrator,and explains how to view the different data sets on the artboard with the Variables panel.
- [Voiceover] Now that we've exported…our variable library, which consists of an XML file…generated by Illustrator, we'll have to edit this file…to include the actual data we need…to place into our design.…Don't worry though, I don't expect you…to actually learn XML coding,…this course is going to show an easier way…but you should still be familiar…with the default method of using Illustrator Variable Data…as set forth by Adobe.…You can view the official help file…for Illustrator Variable Data,…just put in illustrator variable data in Google,…it should come up fairly close to the top, this link,…or on the Adobe support site.…
I just typed in variable data and it's…the first link that comes up there.…Seeing how Adobe meant for this feature…to be used is important.…Just so you understand what's going on…behind the scenes, even as you're…using an easier process later.…For now, open up the variables XML file…I exported from Illustrator last time.…I'm going to open it using text wrangler,…a free text editor for the Mac.…
Author
John Garrett
Released
4/26/2016Designer John Garrett appreciates the many different types of variables and their practical uses, including generating business cards and direct mailers. In this course, he explains how to use variable data including managing linked images, graphics, tables of data, and graphs. He covers the entire workflow, from setup to exporting dynamic batches.
- Setting up Illustrator files
- Using Appearances
- Setting up data sources
- Importing data
- Managing linked variables
- Binding and using prepend paths and presets
- Using the Variables panel
- Naming data sets
- Generating multiple versions with batch exporting
Skill Level Advanced
Duration
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Introduction
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1. Exploring Variable Data
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What Is Variable Data?1m 12s
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Different types of variables4m 16s
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2. Setting up Illustrator Files
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Naming objects4m 25s
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Using area type2m 32s
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Using point type1m 57s
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Using variable data graphics4m 50s
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3. Setting up a CSV Document
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Setting up data in Excel3m 25s
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Saving a CSV file3m 11s
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4. Importing using Variable Importer Script
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Opening Variable Importer3m 19s
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Creating and using presets1m 32s
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Testing and importing a CSV2m 22s
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5. Working with the Variables Panel
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Uploading data sets4m 8s
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Dealing with overset text3m 41s
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6. Exporting and Reviewing
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Creating a save action3m 25s
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Conclusion
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Next steps1m 12s
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Video: Editing an XML file using the default method