Automatic generation of names that dynamically scale

[jdutle]

Hi,

I am trying to figure out how to go about taking names and numbers from an excel sheet and having them go into a template.  I know Variables can do this, but I need the text to change to fit the maximum size of the text-bounding box.  So really short names would have a higher pt size and longer names would get smaller.  Then I would need the names to all align at the top of the font.  The numbers would be below the names.

I am very new to all things automated; I guess I'm not sure which approach to go with. Does this call for a script to be written, or could variables some how work?  I've seen stuff about folder actions. If I need a programmer, is there a specific type like html, java, or do they do all formats.

I think variables could be perfect if the type would automatically size to the bounding box like in keynote.  Right now when I do it, if there is a long name it will "disappear" out side the bounding box.  I have used bits and pieces of scripts and developed a process that works, but it could still be much faster.  It involves copying and pasting titles for each file, saving layers as separate files, and then exporting those files as psds, then adding a consistent canvas size to each image.  Right now everything is created in Illustrator, but it would also be nice to have a way to do it in PS as well, as there are a lot more text effect options.

Thanks.

[JETalmage]

You haven't really described your purpose, so don't know if it fits, but...are you aware that you can save an AI file as a PDF and then use Acrobat Pro to add fields that behave as you describe (wherein the text auto-sizes to fit the textframe)?

JET

[jdutle]

I didnt know you could do that, I will look in to it.  Is there a way that you can auto populate those fields once the "template"  is created in Acrobat Pro.  Is there something like variables in PS that will work with Acrobat?  Can each name in the separate files be aligned in the center and also at the top of the letters, so that each name would have a .5 inch gap between the edge and artwork?

Sorry I didnt explain more.  I am looking to autmatically create designs.  I am mostly creating names and numbers for the backs of t shirts.  Every file I create has to be the exact same canvas size, with .5 inch border around any part of the artwork.  The final file also has to be a single layered transparent tiff.  They also must be named in a specific way that lets out print software know certain perameters.  Its not always names and numbers so I cant always use the same template.  It could be a large graphic with the name below it or it could be a big vertical name overlayed on top of a graphic.

Right now my process is:

1.  I take the excel file from my client and copy the list of names/numbers and a code to identify the each design file into Illustrator.  I then break each design into a seperate layer and copy and paste the code as the layer name.  Once all the designs are on separate layers I align and drag all the names at the same time over top of a background template and resize them in chunks to fit. Then I do the same things with the numbers.

2. I then run a script in Illustrator I found on the forums that separates each layer into its own file, using the layer name as the file name.  (Every file contains the same layers, the script just turns of visibility of all layers except one)

3.  I then run a batch in Illustrator on the files that exports them as psds.  This saves the artwork so that its transparent and the canvas is touching the artwork

4.  In Photoshop I create an action that adds .5 inches the canvas all around.  Then I have it add the set canvas size so that every image will take up the space that it needs to.  I then batch the files using this action and also put the naming convention in, for the printers parameters.

Using the actions and batching saves a lot of time, but If I make a mistake, like in sizing, I have to go through each step again. The most time consuming part is probably all the copy and pasting of the information and design names into Illustrator layers.

Thanks Again.

[JETalmage]

Are the names and numbers stylized (multiple strokes/fills, warp effects, etc.), or just ordinary text set in a particular font?

JET

[jdutle]

I try to keep them basic, using just standard font.  There are times where I do have to do multiple strokes and effects to match a design style.

[JETalmage]

There are times where I do have to do multiple strokes and effects

Then the Acrobat forms aproach will not serve.

Text objects bound as Variables do not auto-size their content to fit the textframe.

A solution could be built in Javascript. There is no need to involve Photoshop; you can export TIF from Illustrator (although I question the need for TIF, since you say you are then going to PDF anyway).

JET

[jdutle]

I may have explained things wrong.  The end product that I would need is a single layered tif, with a transparent background.  I dont believe you can export a tiff from Illustrator with a transparency.  I have tried looking at javascript and other things like that, but it seems a little overwhelming to learn from scratch.  Do I need to get a programmer?  If so what kind?  Is programmer a generic term or does it get broken down into html programmer, java programmer, etc...