Formatting Graphical Objects in Adobe PageMaker

Adobe PageMaker is a classic desktop publishing tool that helps you design professional documents like brochures, newsletters, and flyers. Apart from handling text, PageMaker also allows you to work with graphics and shapes to make your layout more attractive. In this guide, we’ll learn how to format graphical objects in Adobe PageMaker — using simple and beginner-friendly steps.

Understanding Graphical Objects in PageMaker

Graphical objects include lines, shapes, images, and frames that you add to a document. You can create them using drawing tools or import images from your computer. Once added, these objects can be formatted to adjust their size, color, and appearance to fit your design perfectly.

Drawing and Selecting Objects

• Tools Palette: This palette contains all the tools you need to create graphics — such as the Rectangle Tool, Line Tool, and Picture Tool.
• Pointer Tool: Use the Pointer Tool to select shapes, text frames, or images. Once selected, you can move, resize, or apply effects.

Moving and Resizing Graphical Objects

Once you create an object, you can easily adjust its position or dimensions.

To Move an Object:

1. Select the object using the Pointer Tool.
2. Click and drag it to a new location on the page.

To Resize an Object:

1. Select the object with the Pointer Tool.
2. Drag the corner handles inward or outward to adjust the size.

Applying Stroke and Fill

Formatting with stroke and fill gives your shapes a professional look. A stroke is the outline or border, and a fill is the color or pattern inside the object.

To Apply Fill:

1. Select the shape using the Pointer Tool.
2. Go to Element > Fill and choose a fill color or pattern.

To Apply Stroke:

1. Select the object.
2. Go to Element > Stroke and select the line thickness or style.

Adding Rounded Corners

Rounded corners can make your rectangles and squares look softer and more modern.

1. Select the rectangle or square.
2. Go to Element > Rounded Corners.
3. Choose the corner style and click OK.

Reshaping Polygons

PageMaker lets you easily reshape polygons into triangles, pentagons, hexagons, or stars.

To Reshape a Polygon:

1. Select the polygon and double-click it to view reshape placeholders.
2. Drag the placeholders to adjust the sides.

To Set the Number of Sides or Create a Star:

1. Select the polygon and go to Element > Polygon Settings.
2. Enter the desired number of sides (between 3 and 100).
3. To create a star, adjust the Star Inset value between 0% and 100%.
4. Click OK.

Importing Graphics into PageMaker

You can import external images to enhance your publication. The two most reliable formats are:

• TIFF: Best for scanned or photographic images.
• EPS: Ideal for vector graphics and color-rich illustrations.

To import an image:

1. Go to File > Place.
2. Locate your image and click Open.
3. Click on the page to insert the graphic.

Adding Text into Frames

Text frames are also considered graphical objects in PageMaker. They allow you to add and format text inside shapes like rectangles, circles, or polygons.

Method 1:

1. Draw a shape using the Frame tools (Rectangle, Ellipse, or Polygon Frame).
2. Click the Text Tool inside the frame and start typing or paste text from the clipboard.

Method 2:

1. Select a text block and an empty frame while holding Shift.
2. Go to Element > Frame > Attach Content to flow the text into the shape.

Maintaining Consistency (Object Styles Concept)

Although PageMaker doesn’t have a dedicated “Object Styles” panel like Adobe InDesign, you can still maintain uniformity. Format one object the way you want, then copy and paste its attributes onto other objects. This technique saves time and keeps your document consistent.

Final Thoughts

Formatting graphical objects in Adobe PageMaker gives your publication a polished and professional look. With tools for drawing, color, shapes, and image placement, you can bring your creative ideas to life. Once you understand the basics, designing visually rich documents becomes smooth and enjoyable.

5 FAQs on Formatting Graphical Objects in Adobe PageMaker

1. What is a stroke in PageMaker?

A stroke is the border or outline of a shape or graphical object. You can change its color, style, or thickness.

2. How do I fill a shape with color?

Select the shape, then go to Element > Fill and choose a color or pattern from the options.

3. Which image formats work best in PageMaker?

TIFF and EPS formats are best because they maintain high quality and print resolution.

4. Can I wrap text around images?

Yes, use the Text Wrap option under the Element menu to control how text flows around graphics.

5. How do I create star shapes?

Select a polygon, go to Element > Polygon Settings, and adjust the Star Inset value to form a star.

Conclusion

Learning to format graphical objects in Adobe PageMaker can transform your publication design. With the right tools and a bit of creativity, you can make your projects look professional and eye-catching. Start experimenting with shapes, colors, and images — and watch your layouts come to life!