How to Create a Free Layout

A layout is a design or template, which you can reuse as frequently as you want to save time and reduce errors. The layout often is a rough draft that may include backgrounds, graphics, images, text, links, tables, columns or other content. While the main design remains the same, some of the content is updated between projects. You may use an existing template and revise it to create a layout or create a layout from scratch.

Things You'll Need

• KompoZer
• Microsoft Publisher

Instructions

Creating a Free Website Layout

1. Download a free copy of KompoZer (powered by Mozilla) from http://sourceforge.net/projects/kompozer/ to create a website layout.

2. Open KompoZer and select "File, New." Choose "A blank template" and click on "Create."

3. Add the content (text, table, graphics, links, etc.) you want to use for your layout. To insert a table, select "Insert, Table" and choose the table size you want. To insert graphics or images, click on "Insert, Images" and browse to find the image you'd like to use. To insert a link, select the text or image you're linking. Then choose "Insert, Link," define your link and click on "OK."

4. Specify which regions of the layout you want to be editable by selecting "Insert, Templates, Editable Area." The editable regions are parts of the layout that will change from one page to the next. In the "Insert an editable area" dialog box, give the editable area a name. Choose the area type and options, then click "OK."

5. Save the free layout by selecting "File, Save As." Enter a page title (ex., template) and click "OK." Name your file with the ".mzt" file extension (for templates) and click on "Save."

Creating a Free Brochure Layout

1. Create a free layout for a brochure using Microsoft Publisher.

2. Use a layout already created and revise it or create one from scratch. To use an existing layout, choose "Publications for Print, Brochures" in the task pane and select the layout you want to redesign. To create a blank layout, choose from "Blank Publications" instead.

3. Work with the layout loaded on your screen. You may change the design by selecting "Publication Designs," the color by selecting "Color Schemes" or the fonts by selecting "Font Schemes."

4. Remove any text or graphics you don't want by selecting the outline surrounding each and clicking on "Delete." To insert a text box, click on "Insert, Text box" and drag it where you want it to appear.

5. Save your layout as a template by selecting "File, Save" and changing the file type to "Publisher Template." Name your template and click on "Save."

References

• KompoZer
• Microsoft Publisher Templates