Adding Graphics to a Publication in PageMaker

When it comes to creating professional-looking documents, graphics play a huge role. Adobe PageMaker makes it easy to add images, drawings, and designs to your publication. Whether you want to include photos, clip art, or simple shapes, PageMaker gives you several ways to do it.

In this guide, we’ll go through all the methods you can use to add graphics in PageMaker — from drawing your own shapes to importing ready-made images and pasting designs from other programs. Let’s explore step by step.

Why Add Graphics in PageMaker?

Visual elements make your publication more attractive and easier to read. A good image or shape can help explain ideas faster than text alone. Adding graphics also helps in:

• Breaking long blocks of text
• Highlighting key information
• Making layouts visually balanced
• Engaging readers with visuals

Three Ways to Add Graphics in PageMaker

PageMaker provides three main methods to insert or create graphics:

• Drawing shapes directly using the Toolbox
• Importing pictures from other applications using the Place command
• Pasting images from the Clipboard

1. Drawing Using the Toolbox

PageMaker’s Toolbox offers several drawing tools to create basic shapes and lines. You can design your own graphics right on the page without switching to another software.

Common Drawing Tools

• Line Tool: Draws a line at any angle.
• Constrained Line Tool: Draws lines at 45° or 90° angles.
• Rectangle Tool: Creates rectangles or squares.
• Polygon Tool: Draws polygons (multi-sided shapes).
• Ellipse Tool: Makes ovals or circles.

These tools are great for creating boxes, borders, dividers, or simple icons within your layout.

2. Importing Graphics from Other Applications

If you already have images created in software like Photoshop, CorelDRAW, or Paint, PageMaker allows you to bring them into your publication easily using the Place command.

Steps to Import a Graphic

1. Open your PageMaker publication and select where you want to place the image.
2. Click on File → Place.
3. Browse your computer to find the desired image file.
4. Click Open. The cursor will turn into a loaded icon.
5. Click on the page or pasteboard to drop the image into your layout.

You can adjust the size or move the image once it’s placed. If you want to insert it into a specific frame, select the frame first before using the Place command.

3. Pasting Graphics from the Clipboard

Sometimes you might want to copy an image or object from another program or PageMaker file. This can be done through the Clipboard.

Steps to Paste a Graphic

1. Select the graphic you want to copy.
2. Click Edit → Copy (or Cut if you want to move it).
3. Go to your PageMaker publication.
4. Position the insertion point where you want the image to appear.
5. Click Edit → Paste.

Once pasted, you can move or resize the graphic to fit your layout. This method works perfectly for transferring designs from programs like Paint or CorelDRAW.

Handling and Positioning Graphics

Once the graphics are on your page, arranging them correctly is key. Good layout design means balancing images and text so the page looks neat and professional.

• Place images close to the related text.
• Distribute pictures evenly across the page.
• Use a mix of photos and line art for contrast.
• Keep mugshots and small portraits at smaller sizes for better balance.

To make text wrap around your image, turn on Text Wrap using Alt + Ctrl + E. Adjust the space around the image so the text doesn’t touch it directly.

Best Practices for Using Graphics

• Maintain image quality — avoid stretching photos too much.
• Keep consistent styles throughout your document.
• Ensure images are aligned properly with text columns.
• Check for any copyright or licensing restrictions on imported graphics.

5 FAQs on Adding Graphics to a Publication in PageMaker

1. What types of images can I import into PageMaker?

You can import common formats like TIFF, BMP, and EPS. These are widely supported and maintain good print quality.

2. Can I resize imported images in PageMaker?

Yes. After placing the image, select it and drag the corner handles to resize it proportionally.

3. How can I make text wrap around an image?

Use the Text Wrap option (Alt + Ctrl + E) to wrap text around your image automatically.

4. Can I paste images directly from Paint or CorelDRAW?

Yes. You can copy images from those programs and paste them using the Clipboard method.

5. What’s the best way to align graphics and text?

Use the grid or guides in PageMaker to ensure consistent alignment and spacing between elements.

Conclusion

Adding graphics in PageMaker is a simple yet powerful way to make your publication stand out. Whether you draw shapes, import images, or paste designs, PageMaker gives you full control over placement and design. With a little creativity, you can turn any plain document into a visually engaging masterpiece.