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DKins
DKins
Known Participant
August 5, 2022
Answered

Unequal column widths in Illustrator

  • August 5, 2022
  • 2 replies
  • 2353 views

I love the columns feature in Illustrator, but have run into a few scenarios in which I need more control over the column widths. I was trying to adjust the widths by clicking-and-dragging on the borders around the columns such as I do in MS Excel and Word, but no joy. I did the obligatory web searches with no success. Is there a way to do this that I haven't figured out for myself? Or does this not exist and needs to be a "feature request"?

 

Thanks,

- DK

This topic has been closed for replies.
Correct answer Kurt Gold

Currently there is no straightforward way to do it in Illustrator.

 

You'd either have to use "helper objects" (invisible rectangles) and make text wraps (see Object menu) or you may use threaded text (see Type menu).

 

If your paragraphs are *very* well-organised you may also play with their indents, but that's rather a wobbly game.

 

Even InDesign does not provide what you are looking for.

 

2 replies

Mike_Gondek10189183
Community Expert
Mike_Gondek10189183Community Expert
Community Expert
August 5, 2022

Instead of the columns feature draw 2 text containers, paste type in first one, click on the red + at bottom right to select overflow text. WIth loaded cursor click on the 2nd text container to flow into there. Use the direct select tool to nudge the size of text containers.

    Kurt Gold
    Community Expert
    Kurt GoldCommunity Expert
    Community Expert
    August 5, 2022

    Yes, that's threaded text as already mentioned, Mike.

     

    Kurt Gold
    Community Expert
    Kurt GoldCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    August 5, 2022

    Currently there is no straightforward way to do it in Illustrator.

     

    You'd either have to use "helper objects" (invisible rectangles) and make text wraps (see Object menu) or you may use threaded text (see Type menu).

     

    If your paragraphs are *very* well-organised you may also play with their indents, but that's rather a wobbly game.

     

    Even InDesign does not provide what you are looking for.

     

      DKins
      DKinsAuthor
      Known Participant
      August 6, 2022

      Thanks, Kurt. I played with the indents and got where I needed. Not overly surprised this was a reach for PS, but sure would have bet that ID had it. I don't use it, but seems like a not-so-outlandish need on occasion.

       

      thanks,

      - DK

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