Layout 2 - Cross Page & Full Bleed Layouts (x2)

Welcome to Episode 2 of our InDesign layout tutorial series! In this video, we're delving into the art of crafting beautiful and user-friendly layouts with ease. You'll master essential skills like text on a path, two-column text boxes, and font customization. We'll also explore a variety of design tools to help you create engaging text-focused pages. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, this tutorial will empower you with the knowledge and tools to create stunning InDesign layouts in just seven minutes.

General Document Setup

  • Standard Letter 8.5”x11” portrait sheets

  • 4 pages, with “facing pages” checked

  • Start # = 2

  • Columns 1, column gutter 0.1667in

  • Margins = 0.5in all sides

Layout 1: Text-Focused Page Layout

Step 1: Placing an Image

  • Start by using the drag and anchor tool to place an image onto your InDesign canvas using the Rectangular Frame Tool (T).

  • Align the image with the grid for a neat appearance, and adjust its size proportionally.

Step 2: Adding a Title Block

  • Incorporate a title block into your layout to serve as a visual element.

  • You can save time by copying and pasting an existing title block onto your canvas, here we are using the one from layout 1. Use Alt + Drag to create a duplicate of an object.

Step 3: Creating a Subheading

  • Add a subheading or header beneath the title block.

  • Customize the font size (e.g., 36) to make it smaller for a balanced design, here I used Sofia pro regular 60pt for the top and Sofia pro light 36pt for the bottom.

Step 4: Text on a Path

  • To create text on a path, draw a line where you want the text to appear using the Line Tool (\).

  • Use the Type on a Path tool (Shift + T) by right-clicking and then clicking on the line to create text along the path.

  • Customize the font style and size for consistency, here I’m using Sofia pro regular 24pt.

Step 5: Hiding the Line

  • To keep your layout clean, select the line used for the text path and change its stroke to "none," making it invisible.

Step 6: Layout Readability

  • Emphasize the importance of white space and readability in your design.

  • Use two-column text boxes by dragging out two text frames using the Type Tool (T). Leave some white space to prevent overwhelming the reader.

Step 7: Balancing Text and Images

  • For layouts with more text, consider adding a small image to balance the design.

  • Place the image on the layout with Rectangular Frame Tool (F) and adjust its size as needed.

Layout 2: Image-Text Combination Layout

Step 1: Stretching an Image Across Two Pages

  • In this layout, you'll create a visually striking effect by stretching an image across two pages.

  • Place the image with a Rectangular Frame Tool (F) to span both pages, visually connecting them and providing ample space for a complete view of the image.

Step 2: Adding a Title Block

  • Insert a title block into your layout for a professional touch, here I simply copy the title block from the previous layout.

  • Adjust its position to align with your design grid.

Step 3: Placing Text

  • Add text to your layout to provide context.

  • Consider including subheaders and body text for a comprehensive design.

  • You don’t want the body text to read too heavy, so consider using a lighter and smaller font or even turning the opacity down. Here I am using Sofia pro light at 12pt.

Step 4: Accent Image and Border Effect

  • Enhance the layout by introducing an accent image alongside the main one with a Rectangular Frame Tool (F).

  • Use the “stroke” selection tab to add a border effect to the accent image.

I hope you found this tutorial valuable in your InDesign journey! Thank you for joining me in this creative endeavor, and I look forward to seeing you in our future tutorials. Happy designing!

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Layout 1 - Text Wrap & Clean Composition (x2)

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Layout 3 - Word Clippings (x2)