John Garrett discusses best case scenarios for using area type in your variable data designs, as well as some of the benefits of using it. He also compares Illustrator to InDesign, points out some potential problems and suggests possible solutions to prepare for those problems, such as further Illustrator scripting.
- [Voiceover] We've already covered…the potential problems with naming text objects.…Now I'm gonna show you some best practices…when setting up your text for variable import.…The number one thing to remember is that your text…won't automatically fit the space you have allotted for it.…Illustrator isn't really smart enough to do that,…so it's up to you to try to minimize the chance…for error when you import your data.…What can be done about this depends largely…on the type of text object you're using.…First, I'll talk about area type.…This is the kind of text that's contained in a box.…
To make area type, I would choose the Text tool,…then click and drag a marquee to whatever size I wanted.…Once I let go, I'll have a box with a blinking cursor in it,…and whatever I type in there will be constrained…by the limits of the box I drew.…For example, my Powers description…text is created with area type.…If you have multiple lines or paragraphs of text,…you'll want to use area type for your variable.…Area type works great for creating well-defined blocks…
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: Using area type