How to Create and Manipulate Vectors in Adobe InDesign

Adobe InDesign, often used for desktop publishing, lacks native tools for creating complex vector graphics as found in Adobe Illustrator. However, it does offer basic vector shape creation and manipulation to serve the needs of most designers and publishers. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to create vector shapes in InDesign, modify them, and output your designs as vector graphics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Vector Shapes in InDesign

Launch Adobe InDesign: Open the software on your computer and either create a new document or open an existing one. Select the Shape Tool: Navigate to the Tools panel, located on the left side of the screen. Choose the appropriate Shape Tool from the following options: Rectangle Tool (n) - Use this to create rectangles or squares. Ellipse Tool (L) - This tool helps you create ellipses. Polygon Tool - For creating polygonal shapes. Draw Your Desired Shape: Click and drag on the canvas to draw your desired shape. Holding down the Shift key ensures perfect squares or circles. Modify Your Shape: Selection Tool (V): Use this tool to move, resize, or rotate your shape. Direct Selection Tool (A): This allows you to adjust the corners or add effects by manipulating anchor points. Add Color and Stroke: Swatches Panel: Apply a fill color or stroke by selecting the shape and going to the Swatches panel (Window > Color > Swatches). Control Panel: Adjust the stroke weight and style from the Control panel at the top of the screen. Apply Gradient and Effects: For more advanced coloring, you can apply a gradient.

Exporting as Vector Graphics

If you need a true vector file, such as SVG or AI, follow these steps:

Export Your Document: Go to File > Export to choose a format like Adobe PDF Print or Adobe Illustrator AI. Select Export Settings: In the export dialog, choose the appropriate settings for your needs, ensuring that vector settings are enabled to maintain the vector quality.

Importing Vector Graphics

For more complex vector graphics, consider creating them in Adobe Illustrator and then importing them into InDesign:

Create in Illustrator: Make your vector graphic in Adobe Illustrator and save it as an AI or EPS file. Place in InDesign: Use File > Place (Ctrl D or Command D) to import the Illustrator file into your InDesign document.

Conclusion

While InDesign offers basic vector shape creation and manipulation, it is recommended that you use Adobe Illustrator for more advanced vector graphics.

If you have any specific tasks in mind or need further assistance, feel free to ask!