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December 16, 2018
Answered

How to set up a custom spot color default palette?

  • December 16, 2018
  • 2 replies
  • 7860 views

I just upgraded from AI 2015 to 2019.  As usual, everything I had set up went out the window (Adobe, you guys need to learn from Apple!).  Since I started using AI almost 30 years ago, I've had a custom spot color palette that is the default swatch palette when I create a new document.  I can't figure out how to get 2019 to use it.  I have an AI document with all the required swatches in it.  Where can I put it so that it comes up as the default??

Thanks

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Ton Frederiks

    In the Illustrator application folder you will find a folder named Support Files that contains a folder with New Document Profiles.

    Copy your document that contains your swatches libray in there.

    You will probably have to use your Admin password.

    The document should become available as a preset after restarting Illustrator.

    If you use the default File New dialog, you will probably have to dig deep to find it.

    I prefer to set my Preferences General to > Use Legacy “File New” Interface. It is easier to select the document from the Profiles.

    2 replies

    Ton Frederiks
    Community Expert
    Ton FrederiksCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    December 16, 2018

    In the Illustrator application folder you will find a folder named Support Files that contains a folder with New Document Profiles.

    Copy your document that contains your swatches libray in there.

    You will probably have to use your Admin password.

    The document should become available as a preset after restarting Illustrator.

    If you use the default File New dialog, you will probably have to dig deep to find it.

    I prefer to set my Preferences General to > Use Legacy “File New” Interface. It is easier to select the document from the Profiles.

    ButchVAAuthor
    Known Participant
    December 16, 2018

    Thanks Ton.  I think we're on the right track, but now I have to select my Default Swatches profile each time I create a new document.  Previously it was the default that came up automatically every time I create a new document, without my having to select anything.  Any idea how to do that?   Here's what I see when I create a new document:

    As ups can see, the AI default profile is "Print".  My document, named "Illustrator Default Swatches" is visible, but I can't find a way to make it the preferred color profile.

    Ton Frederiks
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    December 16, 2018

    Once you have chosen your preferred profile, it will stick.

    The next time it will be the default.

    lambiloon
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    December 16, 2018

    Hi check following video i think it helps you to solve you problem....Thanks.

    Ali Sajjad / Graphic Design Trainer / Freelancer / Adobe Certified Professional
    ButchVAAuthor
    Known Participant
    December 16, 2018

    Sorry, I guess I wasn’t clear.  I have a custom swatch palette already created. I need to know how to make it so that every new document I create has that palette in it.  It’s always been the case where you simply put it into the AI startup items folder, but I can‘t find that with the new version.

    ButchVAAuthor
    Known Participant
    December 16, 2018

    Up to now, when I’ve done this, my custom swatch palette is the only colors I see.  I don’t see any of the AI default CMYK stuff.  I work exclusively with spot colors.