How to Alter Shape of Frame in InDesign CC 2018
InDesign CC 2018 is a powerful tool for creating professional layouts, and one of its many features is the ability to alter the shape of frames. Whether you need to create a custom shape for an image or design a unique layout, understanding how to modify frame shapes in InDesign can greatly enhance your design capabilities. In this article, we will guide you through the process of altering the shape of frames in InDesign CC 2018, so you can unleash your creativity and achieve the desired visual effect.
Step 1: Create a Frame
The first step in altering the shape of a frame in InDesign CC 2018 is to create a frame. To do this, click on the “Frame Tool” (F) in the Tools panel. Then, click and drag on your document to create a frame of the desired size. Once you have created a frame, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Convert Frame to Shape
To alter the shape of the frame, you need to convert it to a shape. To do this, select the frame by clicking on it, and then go to the “Object” menu in the Menu Bar. Choose “Convert to Shape” and select the shape you want to apply from the dropdown menu. This will convert your frame to the chosen shape, allowing you to customize it further.
Step 3: Customize the Shape
Once you have converted your frame to a shape, you can customize it to your liking. To do this, select the “Direct Selection Tool” (A) from the Tools panel and click on the shape. This will allow you to manipulate the points, handles, and anchor points of the shape. You can drag the points to reshape the frame, or use the handles to adjust the shape’s size and proportion.
Step 4: Add Effects and Adjustments
After customizing the shape, you can add effects and adjustments to enhance your design. To add effects, select the shape and go to the “Effects” menu in the Menu Bar. You can choose from various options such as “Drop Shadow,” “Gradient Feather,” and “Outer Glow” to add depth and visual interest to your frame. Additionally, you can adjust the shape’s position, size, and opacity by using the “Object” menu and its associated options.
Step 5: Save Your Design
Once you have completed the desired modifications to the frame shape, make sure to save your work. Go to the “File” menu and choose “Save” or “Save As” to save your InDesign document. This will ensure that your design is preserved and can be accessed in the future.
In conclusion, altering the shape of frames in InDesign CC 2018 is a straightforward process that allows you to create unique and visually appealing layouts. By following these simple steps, you can convert frames to shapes, customize their appearance, and add effects to enhance your design. With a little practice, you will be able to master the art of frame shape manipulation and take your InDesign skills to the next level.
