How to Apply Background Color to Boxes in InDesign

Frames are the building blocks of an Adobe InDesign document. One way to make a frame stand out in a newsletter, magazine or newspaper is to add color. You can type or place text over the top of it and create a nice contrast that makes the box stand out.

Instructions

1. Create a frame box (See the eHow article "How to Add Borders With InDesign").

2. Click on the frame with the Selection tool to highlight it.

3. Select the Fill box located at the top of the Swatches palette. Note that there are two choices; you want the square that is solid in the middle.

4. Decide which color you would like apply from the InDesign Swatches pallet and click on it.

5. Type a percentage in the Tint box (also at the top of the Swatches palette) if you want a lighter shade of the color.

6. Type or place your text in the frame that is now filled in with color.

Tips & Warnings

• Play with colors and tints to see how they look with your text.

• Create shades of gray by selecting black as your color and changing the tint.

• Instructions may vary some depending on which version of Adobe InDesign you are using.